Jamaican Consulate Miami Christmas & New Year’s Message From The Consul General Of Jamaica – Miami
Fellow Jamaicans,
No matter where we are in the world, I know that the traditions of a Jamaican Christmas will be observed to the fullest extent possible. But as we eat, drink and celebrate in our own unique way, let us also find ways of sharing the spirit of the Season with those who are in need.
In reflecting on 2015, we can say that it has been a challenging year for Jamaica as we continued to grapple with issues that affect all Jamaicans whether at home or in the Diaspora. However, despite these challenges, Jamaicans shone brilliantly and positively affected the global community.
Who can forget the impact of Kaci Fennel who many felt was cheated out of the Miss Universe crown, or Usain Bolt and Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce who led the superb Jamaican team to a triumphant 13 medals at the IAAF World Championships, or Marlon James, Jamaican author who was awarded the Man Booker prize which recognizes excellence in fiction.
Jamaica also hosted the 6th Biennial Diaspora Conference in June, which sought to identify sustainable options to positively engage with the Jamaican Diaspora, in particular its younger demographic. There has been progress in establishing an effective mechanism for support and collaboration, and while more work is required, there has been some measure of success in the areas of healthcare, education and agriculture. The Consulate General looks forward to the continued engagement with the Diaspora on all matters of mutual interest.
I also use this opportunity to salute the work that so many organizations and individuals undertake, quietly and without public recognition, in providing critical services and assistance to various communities and charities in Jamaica and in their communities here in the USA.
At this time of year, let us remember that one of the meanings of the Season is Hope. Let us put our collective energies to good work and focus our thoughts on positive outcomes. I encourage all of us to work together, in good faith and in hope, to achieve a safer environment in which we can begin to realize the best outcomes for ourselves, our families, our communities and our respective countries.
On behalf of the staff of the Jamaican Consulate Miami, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Franz N. Hall
Consul General
Consul General
