Aileen Burton, born on January 12, 1950, in Roseau, Dominica, is celebrated as a cultural icon and a dedicated nurse-midwife. Her life’s work intertwines her professional excellence in healthcare with an unwavering commitment to preserving Dominica’s traditional dress and cultural identity. The daughter of Captain David Keith Burton, a World War II veteran, and Ena Burton, Aileen grew up in a family deeply rooted in community and tradition. Her siblings, including Frances Burton, a respected Geography teacher, and Paula Burton, a chartered accountant, also contributed to their community in various ways. Educated at the Dominica Convent High School, Aileen pursued nursing studies in the United Kingdom, where she specialized as a nurse-midwife administrator. Her medical career was marked by distinction, but it was her passion for Dominica’s culture that truly defined her legacy. From a young age, Aileen was captivated by the island’s national dress, particularly the wob dwiyet and jip/chimiz, which are emblematic of Dominica’s Creole heritage. Her mother’s involvement in the Social League of Catholic Women and her family’s participation in cultural events like carnival and Samdi Gwa balls deeply influenced her. After years abroad, Aileen returned to Dominica to find its cultural traditions fading. Determined to preserve these practices, she authored a comprehensive book on Dominica’s traditional dress, meticulously documenting the dwiyet, jip/chimiz, and associated male attire. Her efforts extended beyond writing as she joined the Cultural Division as a research and development officer, dedicating a decade to cultural programming and documentation. In 1990, she co-founded the Roseau Cultural Group, pioneering events like Fête Ti Dou Dou and creating educational initiatives such as a head-tying instructional video. Aileen’s contributions to healthcare were equally significant. She collaborated with the Dominica National Council of Women to launch the first formal “Carers of the Elderly” course, inspiring many to pursue nursing careers. Her work in Guadeloupe as a palliative nurse further exemplified her dedication to service. Aileen’s cultural stewardship has earned her numerous awards, including the Cultural Custodian Award, Cultural Icon Award, and the Golden Drum Award. Today, she continues to advocate for the documentation and teaching of Dominica’s cultural heritage, envisioning children’s books to guide future generations. Aileen Burton’s life is a testament to her dual devotion to healthcare and cultural preservation, ensuring that Dominica’s national dress remains a symbol of identity and pride for centuries to come.
COMMENTARY: Aileen Burton & the Wob Dwiyet – Preserving Dominica’s creole national wear
