Trinidad and Tobago is taking a bold step towards reclaiming its identity by redesigning its national coat of arms. For the first time since its creation in 1962, the island will be removing symbols of its colonial past. The iconic three ships of Christopher Columbus – the Pinta, the Niña, and the Santa María – will be replaced with a symbol deeply rooted in the island’s culture: the steelpan.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Keith Rowley on Sunday, met with a standing ovation. Rowley stated that the reconfigured coat of arms, which will feature the steelpan alongside the existing hummingbirds, palm tree, and scarlet ibis, will signal a move towards shedding the colonial remnants embedded within their constitution. The transition is expected to be complete before late September.
This symbolic change comes at a time of growing global awareness about the enduring impact of colonialism. It coincides with Trinidad and Tobago’s upcoming public hearing on the potential removal of statues, signs, and monuments related to the colonial era.
The removal of Columbus’ ships from the coat of arms reflects a wider movement to dismantle symbols of colonialism worldwide. In recent years, statues of Columbus have been removed or toppled across the United States. This trend speaks to a growing desire to acknowledge the complexities of history and to celebrate the unique identities of nations.
With this bold move, Trinidad and Tobago is not only transforming its national symbol but also reaffirming its commitment to embracing its rich cultural heritage and forging a path towards a more inclusive future. The replacement of the ships with the steelpan, a symbol of joy and resilience, serves as a powerful testament to the island’s vibrant cultural identity and its ongoing journey to define its own narrative.
