About Saint Lucia > Facts & Figures > National Symbols & Expressions

National Symbols and Expressions

There are unique features of a country that distinguishes it from the rest of the world, much of which may be represented in song, pictorial or natural specimens. Since St. Lucia gained its independence in February 22, 1979, St. Lucians worldwide show their nationality and patriotism by proudly displaying or vocalizing the following which symbolizes their status and identity.

The Flag - Features and Concept

The flag has four distinctive colours. The [Cerulean] Blue represent fidelity. It reflects our tropical sky, and also our emerald surrounding waters, the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The Gold represents the prevailing sunshine in the Caribbean, and prosperity. The Black and white reflects the cultural influences. The white part, white culture; the black, black culture - the two races living and working in unity.

The design impresses the dominance of Negro culture associated with that of Europe, against a background of sunshine and ever-blue sea; this is represented by the three triangles in the centre of the flag, symbolising three pitons. The triangle, the shape of which is an isosceles (triangle) coupled with the island's famous twin Pitons at Soufrière, rising sheer out of the sea—towards the sky, themselves a symbol of hope, aspirations of the people.

Designed by: Dunstan St. Omer

National Anthem (Song)

Lyrics by: Rev. Charles Jesse FMI • Music by: Mr. Leton Thomas

Coat Of Arms

This symbol represents the official seal of the Government of Saint Lucia. The following is a brief description of the Coat of Arms.

The Tudor-Rose represents England The Fleur-De-Lis represents France The African Stool represents Africa The Torch represents a Beacon to light the path The Birds represent the National Bird - Amazona versicolor The Bamboo Cross represents the National Plant The Land, The People, The Light is The Motto Designed by: Sydney Bagshaw

National Pledge

With God as my guide, I pledge allegiance to my country, Saint Lucia. I proclaim that I will serve my country with pride and dignity and will defend it with vigour and valour in the pursuit of excellence, justice and equality for all.

By: Jeff "Pelay" Elva

The Motto

THE LAND, THE PEOPLE, THE LIGHT

National Costume (Dress)

The Wob Dwiyet is a traditional French style dress worn by women on special occasions.

The National Bird

The National Bird of St. Lucia is the St. Lucian Parrot (the Amazona versicolor). It is a large beautiful coloured bird found only in St. Lucia, mainly in the rain forest reserves. The body plumage is predominantly green and its head is blue and turquoise.