People of st pauls carnival - Asher Craig
We may not be meeting in person for Carnival 2021 but we can still celebrate the people that make Carnival what it is.
Asher Craig is a local Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Bristol. She lives in East Bristol and has attended St Pauls Carnival nearly every year since the age of 8 years old!
What does Carnival mean to you?
That one day in the year where we can enjoy our culture, come together in unity, freedom to express and celebrate our authenticity through Caribbean food, music & dance.
What have you learnt in the last 12 months?
That our community is very resilient and that even a pandemic will not dampen our Carnival spirit. I was impressed with the way Carnival pivoted to deliver an online experience.
Does St Pauls Carnival feel different to other Carnivals you have been to? If so, how?
I’ve been to Carnival in Leicester, London, Leeds & Gloucester and none compare to Bristol. Bristol is very different. Much more family-friendly and inclusive.
What are you looking forward to at next year's Carnival?
The floats, the sound systems, the joy on peoples faces.
Councillor Cleo Lake and Councillor and Deputy Mayor Asher Craig at Bristol Pride captured by Bristol Post
What is your favourite Carnival moment?
It has to be the carnival floats and seeing friends & family that I have not seen for years. Carnival is great for reunions.