🐢 Turtle stew named Cayman Islands' national dish

The Cayman Islands Cabinet has selected five new national symbols to bolster the country's identity and safeguard its cultural heritage. Among the chosen symbols is Turtle Stew as the national dish, a decision that may stir controversy due to the endangered status of sea turtles. The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Heritage recognizes Turtle Stew as a unique culinary dish that reflects the Cayman Islands' rich maritime heritage, but there are concerns that this could potentially encourage poaching and hinder conservation efforts. 🐢

Other new symbols include Swanky, a drink made with brown sugar and Seville orange, as the national drink, and Caymanian Heavy Cake, traditionally made from cassava, yam or sweet potato, as the national dessert. The Cayman Quadrille has been named the national dance. The national costume proved more challenging to decide, with the ministry listing a range of traditional outfits for both men and women. These new symbols will join the existing ones, including the Cayman Parrot, the Silver Thatch Palm, and the Wild Banana Orchid. 🍹🍰💃

Heritage Minister Isaac Rankine stated that the ministry is committed to documenting and promoting traditional elements that define Cayman's heritage. The new symbols are seen as a living testament to the vibrant and diverse history of the Cayman Islands. A heritage campaign is being developed to raise awareness and educate people about the new symbols and other aspects of Cayman's past. The public is encouraged to support the initiatives and learn about Cayman's history. 🇰🇾