Consul General Of Jamaica In Miami On The Occasion Of The Commemoration Of Emancipation Day And Jamaica’s Independence Day August 2016
SOUTH FLORIDA – For Jamaicans all over the world, Independence is a special occasion, where we celebrate our unique identity and demonstrate national pride in the achievements of our small nation over the years.
This year, as we celebrate 54 years of Independence on 6th August, it is recognized that there is perhaps no other nation in the world of comparable size and population that has made such a profound impact on the global community as Jamaica. Whether in the field of arts and culture, entertainment, international relations, politics or sports, Jamaicans have excelled over the years and have contributed to the development of humanity.
As we also mark the 182nd anniversary of Emancipation Day on 1st August, let us not lose sight of the struggles of our nation in the past or the challenges that continue to assail us from all quarters.
Therefore, when we come together to celebrate Emancipation and Independence, we are celebrating the strength, determination, creativity and will of our people; a people who have been drawn from all corners of the globe, and who have come together to embody, “Out of Many, One People.”
In recognition of the importance of unity and common purpose in the fight against slavery and securing independence, the official theme for Emancipation and Independence this year is “Let’s get together and feel alright”. As a people, we are imbued with the vitality and wisdom of our ancestors, and recognizing that we inhabit a beautiful and bounteous country, we will continue to march hand-in-hand in support of the sustainable development of our beloved homeland, knowing that our collective efforts, whether at home or abroad, will redound to the benefit of generations to come.
On behalf of the Government of Jamaica, I am pleased to acknowledge, with sincere gratitude, the contributions made by many individuals and organizations within the area of jurisdiction of the Consulate-General to the development of Jamaica. I use this opportunity to reiterate the Government’s commitment to the continued deepening of the engagement with the Diaspora, at all levels.
As we celebrate these two milestones, let us be inspired by the National Pledge of Jamaica to pledge the love and loyalty of our hearts, the wisdom and courage of our minds, and the strength and vigor of our bodies, in the service of our fellow citizens.
Happy “Emancipendence”, 2016!
Consul General of Jamaica
Miami
