The current flag of Dominica, officially adopted on November 3, 1978, is a distinctive and colorful emblem that represents the nation's identity and cultural heritage. The flag features a green field symbolizing the lush vegetation of the island. Dominica is often referred to as the "Nature Isle of the Caribbean," and the green backdrop is a testament to its rich, natural environment.
At the center of the flag is a circular emblem containing a Sisserou Parrot, also known as the Imperial Amazon, perched on a branch. This bird is native to Dominica and is a national symbol, embodying the island's unique fauna. The parrot is encircled by ten stars, which stand for the ten parishes of the country, highlighting unity and equality among its communities.
The flag's design also includes three stripes forming a cross. The vertical and horizontal bands are in yellow, black, and white. These stripes have significant meanings: the yellow represents the sunshine of the island and its primary agricultural products, such as bananas and citrus; the black symbolizes the African heritage of the majority of the population; and the white denotes the purity of the island's water and the spirit of its people.
The choice of colors and symbols in the flag of Dominica reflects not only the natural beauty and resources of the island but also its cultural richness and the diversity of its inhabitants. The flag is a source of pride for Dominicans and is prominently displayed on national occasions, embodying the spirit and resilience of the nation.