Attorney General Leslie Mondesir is advocating for Creole to be recognised as an official language within the judicial system.
Noting that many Saint Lucians speak Creole as their first language, he argued that integrating Creole into the judicial system would help citizens feel more connected and allow them to participate in legal proceedings more effectively.
“As the judiciary listens to the needs and concerns of the people, and the people themselves gain a better understanding of the legal process, it will help to foster trust between the courts and the community on the island of Saint Lucia,” said Mondesir at the recent ceremonial sitting to mark the opening of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) 2025 law year.
“Though English is the official language of the court in Saint Lucia, we would like to see our court speak Creole to our people. You want Saint Lucians to own the court? Then speak to us Saint Lucians in our native language, Creole,” added Mondesir who was speaking on behalf of Attorneys General from the nine territories that subscribe to the ECSC.
Currently, several justices of Saint Lucian heritage serve on the ECSC bench. Mondesir is confident that incorporating the native tongue of several Caribbean islands, particularly Dominica and Saint Lucia, would bridge gaps and make the judicial system more inclusive.
If implemented, this initiative would align with the ECSC’s broader goal of increasing awareness and understanding of court proceedings across various sectors. It would also reflect the current administration’s ongoing efforts to promote Creole as a central element of Saint Lucian identity and culture.
