WASHINGTON, DC – Asst. Professor of Ophthalmology at Johns Hopkins University, Jamaica born Dr. Basil Morgan is the recipient of the 2014 Marcus Garvey UNIA award which was presented to him by the Jamaica Association of Maryland (JAM), at its annual Independence Ball commemorating the country’s 52nd year of independence on Saturday, August 9, 2014 at the Martin West Ballroom in Baltimore, Maryland.
In presenting the award, Maryland House of Delegates Representative and founding member of JAM, Shirley Natham-Pulliam said, “Dr. Morgan has given much to Jamaica and the Caribbean Diaspora in the areas of general health and eye care.” She said the award presented for his outstanding achievement in medicine and that he was a well-deserved recipient.
In accepting the award, Dr. Morgan who hails from the parish of Clarendon said he was honored to be recognized in this way and was committed to serving the people of Jamaica as well as the Caribbean.
The Marcus Garvey award is presented annually by JAM to a Jamaican who has distinguished him/ herself in his/ her chosen career.
In his message, Lieutenant Governor for the state of Maryland who is of Jamaican heritage, Anthony Brown called on Jamaicans to take the opportunity to reflect upon the struggles of independence and how that journey and the 52 years of freedom have shaped the story of our people.
“For so many of us, it is a reminder of our own family’s journey to the United States. It is a celebration of freedom that allows us to share our rich culture and heritage with our friends and neighbors both here in Baltimore and throughout Maryland. It was this freedom along with the chance to obtain an education and pursue the American dream that assured my father when he left Kingston and came to the USA so many years ago,” the Governor said.
In his address, President of JAM, Mr. Noel Godfrey remarked that as we celebrate Jamaica’s independence this year, it is important for us to reflect on the past achievements while looking towards the future.
He noted that if JAM is to survive as an association, it must now turn its attention to attracting the younger generation so the future of the organization will be preserved.
President of the National Association of Jamaican and Supportive Organizations (NAJASO), Rick Nugent in his remarks, commended the association for the deep commitment it continues to demonstrate in seeking to provide scholarships for needy students in the USA and Jamaica. He explained that the funds seek to lay the foundation for a successful education for our future leaders.
Final curtains will come down on Independence celebrations in Washington on Friday, August 16 when the Washington based Jamaica Nationals Association (JNA) will host its Annual Independence Ball under the distinguished patronage of Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Stephen Vasciannie.
(Photo by Derrick Scott)
