WASHINGTON, DC – This coming Sunday, July 28, can be a red-letter day for Jamaicans in Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland, who’re gearing up for a momentous celebration of the island’s Independence.
The particular service of thanksgiving will have fun two vital anniversaries. The primary is the 186th anniversary of Emancipation from slavery. The second is the 62nd anniversary of Jamaica’s independence from the UK. The occasion will spotlight cultural satisfaction and neighborhood spirit. Jamaicans within the DMV may even be honored with awards for his or her contributions for the second yr in a row. The occasion will showcase cultural satisfaction and neighborhood spirit. Jamaicans within the DMV may even obtain awards for his or her contributions for the second yr in a row.
Heads of assorted Diaspora organizations and Jamaican clergy within the DMV space have partnered with the Jamaican Embassy in Washington to prepare this grand celebration.
Jamaican Independence and Emancipation Ceremony
Set to return to the Sligo Seventh Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, the occasion will start at 10:45 a.m.
The service will function a sermon by Pastor Everette Brown, President of the Jamaica Union of Seventh Day Adventists. Will probably be moderated by Rev. Dr. Bertram Melbourne, Professor and former Interim dean of the Howard College College of Divinity assisted by Rev. Eron Henry, communications and Media supervisor for Lott Carey International Mission Conference and Bishop Stanley Murray, pastor of the Baltimore United Church of God. Attendees may even hear the Prime Minister’s message delivered by deputy of chief on the embassy of Jamaica Mission Ms. Lishann Salmon.
Jamaica’s Ambassador to america, Audrey Marks, will give a heat welcome on the occasion. The music will function performances by Yasmin McCoy, Girl Da Flame, and Tamara Simpson. The choir, Performing Artists Underneath the Lord (P.A.U.L.), led by Mrs. Linda Gatling, may even be performing.
Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV Award
In recognition of their excellent contributions to the Jamaican neighborhood, three people can be honored with the Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV Award. The esteemed recipients are Mrs. Carmen Edwards, Ms. Doreen Thompson, and Mr. Larry Sindass. Moreover, the Buddies of Jamaica Award can be offered to Performing Artists Underneath the Lord (P.A.U.L.) for his or her dedication and performances on the annual church service for over thirty years. “Ït is so good that individuals who have served neighborhood and homeland, with such centered devotion and selflessness, to be acknowledged,” noticed Ian Edwards, who chaired the awards subcommittee for the 2024 version of the awards launched in 2023.
Hurricane Beryl Reduction
This years’ service of thanksgiving not solely celebrates Jamaica’s wealthy historical past and cultural heritage and contribution to the world but additionally goals to assist the broader neighborhood. Proceeds from the gathering can be donated to the Black River Infirmary, which suffered extreme harm from Hurricane Beryl – a gesture that exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity and generosity throughout the Jamaican Diaspora.
Because the neighborhood gathers to honor these milestones, the environment can be one in all reflection, gratitude, and anticipation for the longer term. The occasion symbolizes the resilience and unity of Jamaicans, each at dwelling and overseas, and serves as a reminder of the enduring energy of their cultural and historic bonds Ambassador mentioned.
Ambassador Marks identified that he Emancipation and Independence Thanksgiving Service is greater than a commemoration; it’s a celebration of freedom, heritage, and the progress achieved since gaining independence. The occasion is anticipated to deliver collectively a various group of attendees, fostering a way of neighborhood and shared goal amongst those that maintain Jamaica pricey to their hearts.
With the contributions of distinguished audio system, charming performances, and heartfelt recognitions, the service is poised to be a memorable event. It is not going to solely spotlight the achievements and contributions of Jamaicans within the DMV space but additionally reinforce the significance of giving again to the neighborhood and supporting these in want Ambassador added.
This yr’s celebration guarantees to be a testomony to the enduring spirit and cultural richness of the Jamaican folks, a vibrant mosaic of historical past, resilience, and unity that continues to encourage generations.