As previously discussed, diasporan life is complex and adverse. In order to survive, Caribbean people have to forge their own identities. Having explored these identities, I want to ground them theologically. In so doing, I want to demonstrate that the dialectical religious tradition of Caribbean theology is a foremost aspect of the theological heritage and an essential resource for the survival of the people of the Caribbean diaspora. Caribamericans draw on this heritage as a combative and empowering resource in resisting opposition and pursing the realization of our full humanity.

As will be discussed later in this chapter, Caribbean Christianity is formed out of two different religions, namely African derived religions and European Christianity. The nature of Caribbean Christianity reflects the nuances in the people's life and making of their faith. Paying attention to this dialectical tradition departs from the normative theological practices and categories and thus provides a new paradigm for theological reflection. For this reason, I argue that the dialectical religious tradition of Caribbean Christianity is a theological basis for Caribbean diasporan identity. In so doing, this chapter discusses the case, provides a descriptive account, and offers a perspective of the significance of the dialectical religious traditions of Caribbean theology in constructing a Caribbean diasporan theology.

The Case for the Dialectical Religious Traditions

A clarification of the term dialect is essential to the issue in question for this discussion.