A new bill to remove the ships of Christopher Columbus from the Coat of Arms of Trinidad and Tobago has successfully passed with unanimous support from both government and opposition members in the Lower House. The National Emblems of Trinidad and Tobago (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was approved late Monday night, as reported by local news outlet CNC3.
The bill will see the removal of the three Columbus ships—Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria—and their replacement with the Steelpan, the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago. Under Clause 4 of the bill, the “gold Steelpan and its iconic two pan sticks” will be incorporated into the national emblem, marking a significant shift in the nation’s symbolic representation.
Clause 5 ensures that licenses issued under the current legislation will remain valid, and the former emblem will be allowed until January 1, 2026. The redesigned Coat of Arms will be created by renowned designer and jeweler Gillian Bishop.
Prime Minister’s announcement
Prime Minister Keith Rowley first announced the change at a People’s National Movement (PNM) convention in August 2024. Speaking to a crowd of supporters, Rowley highlighted the need to break from colonial symbolism.
“It’s time for change,” Rowley declared. “You see those three Columbus ships in the emblem? They will go.” He emphasized that the new emblem would reflect a more authentic identity for the nation, noting that the changes would take place over a six-month period to allow for the replacement of existing stationery and materials.
Rowley also commented on the broader significance of the change, stating, “This should signal that we are on our way to removing the colonial vestiges that remain in our constitution.” He added that the transition could be the first step toward distancing the country from its colonial past.
The Steelpan, which originated in the hills of Laventille in Port of Spain during the 1930s and 1940s, holds a proud place in Trinidad and Tobago’s history. It is the only new musical instrument invented in the 20th century and has become a global symbol of the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
The move to replace Columbus’ ships with the Steelpan is seen as a strong statement of Trinidad and Tobago’s independence and cultural pride, marking a step toward reshaping the country’s national identity.
