by Mell P
When Roger Archibald stepped into the leadership role at the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) this year, it marked not just a new chapter for the organization but also a “full circle moment” for him. In an exclusive interview with Carib News, his first since assuming his new role, Archibald, speaking at the Carib News Editorial Board meeting on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, took the opportunity to express his deep appreciation for the long-standing relationship with the publication and the familiar faces that have influenced his 34-year career. Archibald reflected on the significance of the moment and the connections that have shaped his professional journey.
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Born in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, Archibald migrated to Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood in 1975. Over the years, he carved out a stellar career as a Caribbean lawyer, known for his relentless advocacy, sharp negotiation skills, and courtroom prowess. After co-founding the boutique law firm Archibald and Hap in 1992, he went on to establish his current firm, Roger Victor Archibald, PLLC, four years later.
Archibald’s legal expertise isn’t confined to the courtroom. He’s been a sought-after legal analyst on New York radio and television, a keynote speaker at various graduations, and has even served as a judge for Moot Court Competitions at New York Law School. His counsel has been invaluable to the governments of St. Lucia and Grenada, and he’s currently advising U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke and New York State Senator Kevin Parker.
Taking the reins at WIADCA, Archibald is keen to redefine the organization’s image. While many associate WIADCA primarily with its iconic West Indian Carnival Week and Parade, he emphasizes that the organization is so much more. “We are a community-based, cultural organization that propagates the culture of the Caribbean to the world,” he shared.
Since its inception, WIADCA has evolved from its Trinidadian roots to embrace the broader Caribbean community. Throughout the year, they engage with schools across all levels—teaching steel pan music, dance, costume design, stilt walking, yoga, and various art forms. Their mission? To pass on the rich Caribbean heritage to the next generation.
But their community outreach doesn’t stop there. WIADCA also runs programs for senior citizens, teaching them sewing, painting, and arts and crafts. They also organize coat drives, food giveaways, and more, ensuring they’re embedded in the community’s fabric year-round.
Looking ahead, Archibald has ambitious plans encapsulated in a comprehensive 5-year strategic vision. While the upcoming carnival season promises to be phenomenal—with cross-promotion from countries that celebrate carnival—he’s also laser-focused on the organization’s economic potential. Highlighting a staggering fact, he noted, “WIADCA hosts the highest grossing parade in North America, generating $300 million for New York City during Carnival week every September.” Yet, surprisingly, none of that revenue flows back to the community or the organization.
To change this, WIADCA is making strategic moves. This year’s events will be broadcasted on major channels like WABC Channel 7 and WPIX Channel 11. Archibald plans to leverage this content to attract advertising dollars, bolstering the organization’s coffers. His ultimate goals include establishing a multi-million-dollar WIADCA endowment, ensuring financial transparency through regular audits, and securing a permanent headquarters in Brooklyn.
As Archibald leads WIADCA into this promising future, it’s clear that his vision goes beyond festivities. It’s about honoring heritage, uplifting the community, and ensuring that the vibrancy of Caribbean culture continues to thrive in New York and beyond.
