Popular Independence Committee (PIC)

The Popular Independence Committee (PIC) was a pivotal political organisation in Dominica during the 1970s, founded by Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas. It played a significant role in the island’s journey toward independence and in shaping its post-colonial political landscape.

Origins and Objectives of the Popular Independence Committee (PIC)

Established in the mid-1970s, the PIC emerged as a grassroots movement advocating for Dominica’s full political independence from British colonial rule. Under Douglas’s leadership, the committee sought to mobilize the populace, particularly the working class and youth, to demand self-governance and to address social and economic inequalities.

Activities and Influence

The PIC was instrumental in raising political consciousness across the island. It organized rallies, educational forums, and community meetings to discuss issues of national importance. The committee also established connections with international movements and governments, notably fostering ties with Cuba, to garner support for Dominica’s independence and development goals.

In 1978, Dominica achieved independence, and Douglas briefly served as a senator. However, his tenure was cut short due to controversy surrounding his invitation to Cuban troops to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane David in 1979, leading to his dismissal from the Senate.

PIC’s Legacy

The PIC’s efforts laid the groundwork for Dominica’s independence and influenced the island’s political discourse in subsequent years. Douglas’s activism and leadership within the PIC propelled him to national prominence, eventually leading to his election as Prime Minister in 2000. The committee’s emphasis on social justice, national sovereignty, and grassroots mobilization resonates in Dominica’s political narrative.