Jamaica’s Ambassador to america, His Excellency Main Common (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, has lauded the Jamaica Affiliation of Maryland (JAM) for its unwavering dedication to remodeling lives in each Jamaica and Maryland over the previous 37 years.
Delivering the keynote handle on the Affiliation’s Annual Independence Gala and Awards Ceremony, held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Martin’s West in Baltimore, Ambassador Anderson recommended JAM for its sterling contributions and for spearheading a number of noteworthy group improvement tasks.
In expressing deep gratitude to the organisation, in addition to to different diaspora teams whose distinctive efforts have enhanced Jamaica’s progress, the Ambassador stated:
“JAM offers of itself continuously, altering lives each right here in Maryland and in Jamaica. The affiliation has assisted these in want in some ways—granting scholarships, offering mentorship, selling our cultural heritage, and fascinating our youth to encourage the following era of leaders.”
Ambassador Anderson additionally prolonged excessive reward to JAM’s management and membership:
“I want to recognise Mr. Rick Nugent as President of the Jamaica Affiliation of Maryland, together with the members of your board and all those that assist you. Your work right here in Maryland and again dwelling in Jamaica has been a lifeline to a whole bunch of beneficiaries, a lot of whom have been impressed to proceed this cycle of goodwill.”
Referring to his latest go to to South Florida for actions marking Jamaica’s 63rd Independence, the Ambassador mirrored:
“My latest interactions with the colourful Jamaican diaspora in South Florida had been a potent reminder of the appreciation for ‘Jamaicanness’ that exists past our shores. Members of the diaspora there—similar to right here in Maryland—are each Jamaican and American. I don’t see a battle between these two identities; the truth is, I consider they work properly collectively.”
Ambassador Anderson famous that when Jamaicans migrate, they combine into their new communities, contribute to them, and add worth:
“Whether or not in music and sports activities, for which we’re world-renowned, or in essential fields resembling medication, the army, politics, philosophy, anthropology, entrepreneurship, and enterprise—Jamaicans go away their mark. Our tradition turns into infused wherever we’re, benefitting each america and Jamaica. It’s particular that we are able to retain our Jamaican id whereas thriving in our adopted houses, and that is one thing to be treasured.”
He emphasised that the Jamaica Affiliation of Maryland is constructing a legacy and stands as a shining instance to all.
The Ambassador additionally congratulated the night’s honourees: Dr. Julius Garvey, son of Nationwide Hero Marcus Garvey; Dr. Jacqueline Payne Borden; Mrs. Pleasure Thomas Moore; and Mr. Wayne Sappleton.
