Memorial tourism: a republican issue in Petit-Canal according to Nathalie Delattre

IN BRIEF

Nathalie Delattre concludes her visit to Guadeloupe in Petit-Canal.
Importance of memorial heritage to not forget history.
Symbolic significance of the ascent of the slaves’ steps for memorial tourism.
Visit to the old prison, site selected by the heritage lottery.
PROMOTION of Guadeloupean culture is essential for the youth.
Culture as the 3rd reason for visiting for tourists each year.
Strengthening the cultural label in the face of Caribbean competition.

Memorial tourism, a republican imperative #

Recently, the delegated minister in charge of tourism, Nathalie Delattre, left a strong impression during her visit to Petit-Canal, a municipality rich in history and memorial heritage. During her visit, she emphasized the importance of memorial tourism and the preservation of collective memory, essential elements to prevent the mistakes of the past from repeating. This speech aligns with a strong desire to promote Guadeloupean culture, both for economic reasons and for identity development, especially among younger generations.

A journey rich in symbolism #

Nathalie Delattre’s visit to Petit-Canal began with a symbolic ascent of the steps, a moment full of emotion and memory. This municipality, emblematic of memorial heritage, bears witness to past struggles and is a place where history comes to life. Celebrating this heritage is a true source of pride for the municipality, as efforts are made to establish it as a flagship destination for memorial tourism.

Identity and collective memory

At the heart of her speech, the minister highlighted the importance of helping young people understand where they come from. “Young people need to understand where they come from,” she stated, while reviewing the emblematic places such as the old prison, recently added to the heritage lottery. This initiative aims not only to preserve these places but also to promote them as foundations of a strong and united Guadeloupean collective identity.

A lever for economic development #

By highlighting memorial tourism, Nathalie Delattre also discusses the economic benefits it can bring to the region. Guadeloupean culture and history represent the third reason that motivates tourists to visit the territory, thus placing Guadeloupe in a favorable position compared to its Caribbean competitors. This specific type of tourism should not only be viewed as a vector of memory but also as an economic engine capable of boosting local employment and supporting the economic actors of Petit-Canal and its surroundings.

Sector stakeholders at work

This vision is shared by many stakeholders in the tourism sector. Manuella Nirhou Berville, responsible for the promotion and enhancement of the heritage of the islands of Guadeloupe at CTIG, states that it is crucial to strengthen the cultural label of the region. Collaboration between elected officials, tourism stakeholders, and local forces is essential to offer an unforgettable travel experience while paying tribute to collective memory.

A future focused on memory #

Ultimately, Nathalie Delattre’s initiative in Petit-Canal highlights a republican imperative: the necessity to remember in order to move forward. By adopting a policy of preservation and promotion of memorial heritage, Guadeloupe aims to construct a future illuminated by its past. Support for this initiative can foster the flourishing of younger generations and strengthen the social fabric of the region, while creating jobs and energizing the local economy.