Dr. Donald Rhodd, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education has challenged Jamaicans to combine their efforts and face the future with genuine optimism.
Speaking to more than 1,000 Jamaicans and friends at the Grand Independence Ball, held at the Renaissance Hotel in Miami, Florida, Saturday, July 31, Minister Rhodd reiterated to his audience that there was no room for complacency as they faced the daily challenges. “The political and economic pressures with which we are confronted test our endurance and our capacity to adapt, manage change and keep moving forward,” the Minister continued.
According to Dr. Rhodd, the strength and democracy of Jamaica lies in the resilient spirit of its people, wherever they reside – at home or in the Diaspora.
In this regard, he urged Jamaicans to stay united and mentioned the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthen the relationship with the Diaspora ensuring the continued support to those living overseas. He praised the overseas community for their ongoing efforts to help develop their homeland while they continue to make meaningful contributions to the economic and social welfare of the areas in which they resided outside of the island.
In their efforts, individually and otherwise, and coupled with a reputation for hard work and dedication, he lauded them for the honor they brought to the name Jamaica as they continued to earn the right to be leaders in the region and respected in the global community.
In commending the organizers of the annual event now celebrating its 21st anniversary, the Minister spoke of the scores of children in communities in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean, who had benefited from the altruism and philanthropic efforts of the Needy Kids of Jamaica and the Clint O’Neil Foundation in honor of the late Clint O’Neil, Jamaican media personnel in the South Florida community who passed on last year.
In observing the country’s 43rd anniversary of Independence, Dr. Rhodd encouraged Jamaicans all over to celebrate the significant strides of the country so far in the past, present and future. He praised the ‘national heroes on whose sweat and blood the nation was built.’
He also pointed to the cultural and sports icons, professionals, academia and all who had excelled in placing the country on the global arena.
According to Dr. Rhodd, Jamaicans should celebrate the modernization and expansion of the nation’s physical infrastructure citing the transportation network, telecommunications, and other areas through which a solid foundation has been laid to sustain economic growth and enable expansion to improve productivity and efficiency.
Prime Minister, Hon. P.J. Patterson’s message was read by Jamaica’s Consul General Ricardo Allicock, while the message from the USA President, George Bush was read by Florida State Representative, Ms. Yolly Robeson.
The annual event has grown throughout the years as Jamaicans overseas continue to celebrate their heritage and culture in the South Florida community. Entertainment was provided by the Jamaica Folk Revue and the Bare Essentials Band.
