Jamaica transferring to Republic standing, even with out instantly resolving the query of the ultimate court docket of enchantment, is a sensible and wise strategy” to constitutional reform.
That was the phrase from Prime Minister Andrew Holness in his Independence message to the Diaspora, delivered on the a hundred and ninetieth Emancipation and 62nd Independence church service held on the Sligo Seventh Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 28.
“Transferring to Republic standing, even with out instantly resolving the query of the ultimate court docket of enchantment, is a sensible and wise strategy to constitutional reform,” said Holness. He argued that it’s time for Jamaica to finish its historic ties with the monarchy and to face independently with a Jamaican Head of State who embodies the nation’s values, tradition, and aspirations.
A whole lot of Jamaicans and buddies of Jamaica attended the occasion, which included a sermon by Pastor Everett Brown, President of the Jamaica Union of Seventh-Day Adventists. The celebration additionally featured awards for District of Columbia-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) diaspora members acknowledged for his or her extraordinary contributions.
In his message, Holness maintained that constitutional reform is essential for Jamaica’s id, sovereignty, and transition to a Republic. He famous, “True independence is each political and financial. It means having management over our future and fostering an surroundings the place native companies can thrive, our youth can attain significant employment, and innovation and entrepreneurship are the bedrock of our economic system.”
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Holness emphasised the federal government’s investments in training, abilities coaching, know-how, and sustainable industries to construct a resilient economic system able to withstanding world shocks. He confused that financial independence is important for the sustainability of Jamaica and its folks.
“Most Jamaicans would help shedding allegiance to the monarchy, a relic of our colonial previous,” mentioned Holness, acknowledging that some view this as symbolic. Nonetheless, he asserted, “Symbols are of immense worth in shaping nationwide id and delight.”
The Prime Minister’s message, learn publicly by the Deputy Chief of Mission on the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC, Ms. Lishann Salmon, highlighted the complexity of constitutional reform and the necessity for a phased strategy. Holness posed necessary questions in regards to the apex court docket, suggesting that selections in regards to the Privy Council or the Caribbean Court docket of Justice require additional consideration and consensus-building.
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Holness concluded, “Allow us to unite and transfer ahead whereas we proceed to debate and construct consensus on the subsequent steps.” He emphasised the importance of nationwide independence, urging collective reflection on Jamaica’s historical past, journey, and future aspirations.
‘One Like to the World’
Referencing this 12 months’s independence theme, “One Like to the World,” Pastor Brown in his sermon urged Jamaicans to exhibit love for each other in sensible and tangible methods earlier than extending that love globally. He confused that Jamaica is greater than its well-known seashores, reggae music, and world-class athletes; it’s a nation of character and compassion.
The service additionally included the presentation of the Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV Award to 3 people for his or her excellent contributions to the Jamaican neighborhood: Mrs. Carmen Edwards, Ms. Doreen Thompson, and Mr. Larry Sindass, founder and govt producer of CaribNation TV. Moreover, the Buddies of Jamaica Award went to Performing Artists Underneath the Lord (P.A.U.L.) for his or her dedication to the Jamaican church service in Washington, DC, for over thirty years.
Proceeds from the gathering taken up on the service will likely be donated to the Black River Infirmary in St. Elizabeth parish, which suffered extreme injury from Hurricane Beryl. This gesture exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity and generosity throughout the Jamaican diaspora.
The service was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, authorities officers, and Professor Emeritus of Stanford College, Dr. Donald Harris, father of US Vice President Kamala Harris.
It was moderated by Rev. Dr. Bertram Melbourne, dean of theology at Howard College, with help from Rev. Heron Henry, communications and media supervisor for Lott Carey International Mission Conference, and Bishop Stanley Murray, Pastor of the Baltimore United Church of God.
Learn: Jamaica prepares drafting instructions for Republic Transition bill
