Independence Message From The Leader of the Opposition, Mark Golding, MP

INDEPENDENCE MESSAGE FROM THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION, MARK GOLDING, MP

It is with great pleasure that I join Jamaicans, at home and in the Diaspora, in celebrating 60 years of our nation’s independence.

We are celebrating our Diamond Jubilee, under the theme, “Re-igniting a Nation for Greatness”. The theme, and indeed the entire process of our celebration, reminds us of the story, in 2nd Chronicles 30, of the Israelites gathering together in Jerusalem and travelling from city to city, in celebration of the Passover.

Gaining political independence was a historic moment for Jamaica. It marked the birth of a new nation, with our collective identity grounded in the spirit of togetherness, holding true to our motto: Out of Many, One People. It is a joy to experience that spirit of unity and togetherness which permeates the Jamaican Diaspora in all corners of the World.

Jamaicans living outside Jamaica contribute much to our nation’s development. They are great ambassadors for Brand Jamaica, being top performers in so many fields of endeavour, whether it be business, academia, the trades and professions, politics, sports, music and many other walks of life. You have long been a vital safety net for many Jamaicans at home, family and friends, and this support was heightened during the devastation of the economic and social effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, with many national initiatives to support the health care sector in particular.

It is my sincere hope and expectation that the upcoming Diaspora conference will further strengthen the relationship between Jamaica and Jamaicans in the Diaspora, as we work to actualize the theme of “Re-igniting a Nation for Greatness”.

I know our Jamaicans abroad are anxious to progress in moving beyond verbal commitments to seeing tangible progress in addressing their areas of concern, including means of achieving their more meaningful engagement and due recognition of their immense contribution to nation-building.

I commit my efforts, and those of the Parliamentary Opposition, to supporting this process and helping to drive it forward. I close this message by asking Almighty God to grant the foresight and fortitude as we continue on our national journey. Greatness is our destiny. We can achieve it by joining together in the common cause of building our beloved Jamaica.

Happy Independence Day. I hope that you enjoy the celebrations peacefully and safely.

God bless you all.

Mark Golding, MP Leader of the Opposition