Deadline Extended: Call for Proposals for Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl and Jounen Kwéyòl 2026

The Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture and Heritage, invites community organizations interested in hosting activities for Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl (Creole Heritage Month) and Jounen Kwéyòl 2026 to submit proposals for consideration.

As part of continuous improvement and development of Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl, a new approach will be piloted this year to encourage widespread community participation in all Districts. Therefore, under the revised approach, communities will be expected to highlight the cultural and heritage of the island, with a focus on the specific cultural reputation of the respective communities. The FRC therefore encourages the communities and community organizations to present for display and exhibition, the elements of Saint Lucian culture and heritage for which they are best known.

Since Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl is celebrated throughout the month of October, community organizations are also encouraged to host activities on any day throughout this month rather than focusing on the final weekend.

Under the new arrangements, no specific community will be designated as main venues for Jounen Kwéyòl celebrations. The FRC and other national agencies will instead work with communities throughout Saint Lucia. Interested communities are invited to submit proposals containing the following information:

• A list and description of proposed cultural activities;
• Dates and venues for each activity; and
• A proposed budget.

The FRC national Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl /Jounen Kwéyòl Planning Committee will review all submissions and allocate financial support based on the quality and cultural relevance of the proposals submitted. Financial assistance from the FRC will serve as a contribution toward approved activities and will not necessarily cover the full cost of proposed programmes.

Participating communities will assume full responsibility for the planning, organisation and execution of their activities, including securing all necessary permits and approvals, ensuring that vendors are properly trained and certified by the relevant health authorities, and providing the

required infrastructure and logistical arrangements for their events. Support for training will be provided by the Ministry through the FRC.

Communities requiring support and guidance may request assistance from the FRC which will form part of capacity building and training together with relevant partner agencies.

All proposal must be submitted to the Offices of the FRC, via email or hard copy, by Friday 17th July, 2026 3:00 pm.

Jounen Kwéyòl 2026 will be celebrated in Saint Lucia on Sunday 25th October, 2026.

For more information, please send an email to frcsocial@folkresearchcentre.org or visit our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (X) platforms, or visit our website: www.folkresearchcentre.org or telephone 453-1477 OR 452-2279.