INDEPENDENCE MESSAGE – JAMAICAN DIASPORA
BY DR. THE MOST HONOURABLE ANDREW HOLNESS, ON, PC, MP
PRIME MINISTER OF JAMAICA
Fellow Jamaicans,
It is with immense pride that I extend warm Independence Day greetings as we commemorate the 63rd anniversary of Jamaica’s independence. Today, all Jamaicans are invited to pause in honour of our ancestors, celebrate their legacy and the progress we have made as a sovereign nation. While we reaffirm our shared commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous, and united Jamaica, let us do so together, wherever we may be located.
This year’s theme, “Be Proud. Be Bold. In the Black, Green and Gold,” reflects the enduring spirit of the Jamaican people. Over the past six decades, we have weathered challenges with courage, embraced opportunities with vision and demonstrated an unwavering spirit of resilience which continues to define who we are as a people. The raising of our national flag in 1962 demonstrated that the people of Jamaica were determined to shape their own destiny. Today, Jamaica is a mature democracy, standing tall on the global stage, having navigated a course grounded in the pursuit of the fundamental rights of everyone.
I am proud of all our people: our athletes, artists, scholars, scientists, educators, diplomats, healthcare professionals, artisans, business leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs, all of whom have been instrumental in building our nation. As we pursue our national goal of sustained economic growth, efforts to expand trade and economic cooperation are more important than ever. Through strategic dialogue with public and private sector partners around the world, we continue to facilitate new investment opportunities, support Jamaican exporters and promote tourism. As we focus attention on creating new jobs and building resilience at home, let us advocate for more equitable trade policies to ensure that Jamaica remains competitive in the global marketplace.
Equally important, is the promotion of Jamaica’s culture to showcase our rich heritage and deepen appreciation for our country and her people across the world. The focus of the government on the creative industries will enhance this process and facilitate even more collaboration with the Diaspora.
I am pleased to note the impact that our vibrant Diaspora is having and the waves they are creating internationally. The unwavering support for and connection to the homeland is a source of national pride and widespread admiration. From business to culture, philanthropy to policy, your contributions have enriched the communities in which you live, even as you continue to support the Jamaican family on the rock.
I commend the leadership from among the various groups in the Diaspora, including the private sector, community, business and religious organisations, whose activities have been instrumental in maintaining these bonds. I am equally encouraged by the engagement of second, third and even fourth-generation Jamaicans who are seeking meaningful ways to connect with their heritage. This sustained assimilation ensures that the Jamaican identity endures across generations. The shared embrace of the friends of Jamaica, is also deeply appreciated and acknowledged as valuable contributions to our growth and development agenda.
Together, let us continue to focus on the welfare of the collective Jamaican family, even as we attend to key national priorities. We must continue to work towards ensuring that Jamaica remains a leading voice in global fora on climate action,
development financing, and regional cooperation. Let this 63rd anniversary serve as a moment of reflection, renewal, and resolve. I encourage you to continue carrying the banner of Jamaica with pride and distinction, and to remain steadfast in your commitment and service to our nation.
As you raise the Black, Green, and Gold today, may it inspire not only celebration, but also a renewed dedication to the ideals of unity, purpose, and progress. Together, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
Happy Independence Day to you and your families!
