The Moko Jumbie is my favourite carnival character and the love for this character I have always shared. It was the conversation about the Moko Jumbie and the enthusiasm that was shown by this person who holds such a large place in my life that led me to get the name ‘jumbie griot,’ . Someone who culturally is not directly connected to Carnival or the meaning of carnival despite being of Caribbean heritage was able to gravitate to the character and find a love for it the way I do.

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The character has a rich history and significant cultural importance in the Caribbean, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. This traditional figure and performance art form have roots in African, European, and indigenous Caribbean cultures. The history and significance of the Moko Jumbie in Caribbean history and culture can be understood through its roles in religious practices, cultural expressions, and as a symbol of resilience.

 

The practice of walking on stilts has African roots and is believed to have been brought to the Caribbean through the transatlantic slave trade. Stilt walking was a traditional skill among some West African societies, and its preservation in the Caribbean is a testament to the resilience and cultural continuity of the African diaspora.

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The history of the character  is deeply intertwined with the cultural tapestry of the Caribbean. Its significance lies in its spiritual and protective roles, its representation of resilience and endurance, and its contribution to the preservation and celebration of Caribbean cultural identity. As a dynamic and evolving cultural expression, the Moko Jumbie continues to play a vital role in the cultural life of the Caribbean.

 

The name combines the mystical and playful connotations of "Jumbie" with the cultural storytelling and knowledge-sharing aspect of "Griot." It reflects a platform that brings together Caribbean communities for educational events and social interaction

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"Jumbie Griot" is a fusion of two cultural and linguistic elements: "Jumbie" and "Griot." Each term carries distinct meanings and cultural connotations, and when combined, they evoke a sense of storytelling, cultural heritage, and possibly a blend of Caribbean and West African influences.

 

In Caribbean folklore, a "Jumbie" refers to a spirit or supernatural being. The term is often used in Trinidad and Tobago and other Caribbean regions. Jumbies are associated with both benevolent and malevolent spirits and are deeply ingrained in the cultural beliefs of the Caribbean.

 

A "Griot" is a West African storyteller, historian, and oral tradition keeper. Griots play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting the history, culture, and stories of their communities. They are often associated with West African traditions, particularly in societies like the Mandinka people.

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The name is specifically ‘jumbie griot,’ spelt in lowercase without the word ‘the’ before thus challenging the syntactic and grammar devices of naming. The name specifically ends with a comma at the end to signify a continuation. 

 

The platform aims to nourish community and opens space for learning whilst understanding that learning is continuous and not restricted to that which is learnt and shared at our events and workshops. 

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