Independence Feature 2013 A Special Advertising Feature
Emancipation & Independence Celebrations 2013 to mark important milestones in Jamaica’s history
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OUTH AND Culture minister, Lisa Hanna last week announced the celebratory activities for Emancipation and Independence for this year. The activities which will commemorate several important milestones in Jamaica’s history, including the 175th anniversary of Full Freedom from slavery, the 275th anniversary of the Treaty between the Windward Maroons and British, the 75th anniversary of the Labour Movement and the 50th anniversary of Jamaica festival, will span the period from July 31st- August 6th. The theme of this year’s celebrations is “Celebrating Jamaica: Triumphant, Proud, Free”. Speaking at the media launch for Emancipation and Independence celebrations 2013 at Jamaica House on Monday, July 22, Hanna highlighted that this year’s celebration will not only focus on Jamaica’s 51st year of political Independence but will close out the Jamaica 50 year of celebrations. The activities will celebrate the success of several Jamaican icons, institutions and National Heroes and will offer excellent presentations in music,dance, theatre and other key aspects of the Jamaican culture. “We want to provide rich, wholesome, family-oriented entertainment while offering periods of reflection to all of us who come out to these events.” the Minister added. Speaking of the closing out of
Jamaica 50, she said Jamaicans would have the opportunity to secure the last of Jamaica 50 souvenirs and keepsakes. According to Hanna, the Jamaica National Heritage Trust and the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission, both agencies of the Ministry of Youth and Culture, will start the weeklong activities with the staging of the Emancipation Jubilee at Seville Heritage Park in St. Ann on the July 31 starting at 4:00 pm. Vigils will also be held in the various parishes.
ACTIVITIES Minister Hanna also announced that this year the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre will be the main hub for activities being held from August 1-5, with activities being held at the parish level. The Ranny Williams Centre is set to be transformed into an ‘Independence village’ and will also be the host of the daily discussion sessions, dubbed “Independence Reasonings” which will explore topical issues such as ‘bleaching and the concept of beauty in Jamaica’ and ‘music and our youth’. In addition to these sessions there will also be the staging of the annual Mello Go Roun’, JCDC’s Most Popular Festival Song Ever Show, the National Festival Queen show, the
Birth of a Nation IN FEBRUARY 1962, a new Constitution was approved by the Legislature and the Premier Norman Manley called General Elections. Alexander Bustamente was
The Hon. Sir Alexander Bustamante smiles as he strides from his car to his office at East Race Course on his first day at work as the Premier.
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elected in April and became the first Prime Minister of Jamaica. On August 6, 1962, Jamaica became an Independent Nation and a member of the British Commonwealth. Jamaica becoming an Independent Nation, now meant that Britain, no longer controlled the affairs of the country. It was now the responsibility of the newly elected Prime Minister
National Gospel Showcase and the World Reggae Dance competition. For the Popular Song Contest Jamaicans are being invited to vote for the top 20 festival songs that best depict Jamaica’s Independence journey by texting the number code attached to their choice to 444-2407 and by voting online at: www.jcdc.gov.jm. The top 20 selected songs will be performed on the show with an overall winner announced. The celebrations will conclude with the staging of the Grand Gala at the National Stadium on August 6 starting at 5:00 pm under the theme “Our History, Our Strength”. The grand gala show will portray the excellence of Jamaica’s traditions, creations and achievements and celebrate some of our outstanding icons who have contributed to the development of the nation. Minister Hanna noted that the Government in general, and specifically, the Ministry of Youth and Culture, recognise the importance of the staging of these cultural and nationalistic celebrations as part of the programme for economic and social restoration and hence, the Government remains committed to ensuring that Jamaicans have cultural outlets for expression, relaxation, contemplation and celebration.
and the locally elected Cabinet. Independence also meant that a Constitution, symbols, emblems, an army, Jamaican currency and passports had to be developed for the country.
Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer Sidney Bartley, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Culture, looks on as Culture Minister Lisa Hanna addresses the media during a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister in St Andrew to outline details related to the upcoming Emancipation and Independence celebrations.
on various issues relating to international trade, policies and treaties. Every year on August 6, (previously first Monday in August), Jamaicans celebrate the removal of our depend-
ence on Britain, to control specific functions of the country. At this time we also honour all those persons who were responsible for the transfer of power. In October, during
National Heritage Week (third Monday in October), we also honour our six National Heroes and one Heroine, in recognition of their contribution to the birth of our nation.
TREATIES As an Independent Nation, Jamaica assigns Ambassadors overseas who represent the country. They sign treaties on behalf of Jamaica and become members of various international organisations. This is important, as it gives Jamaica equal rights
INDEPENDENCE & TRIUMPH: The Royal Box at the National Stadium in August 1962. H.R.H. Princess Margaret and the Earl of Snowdon stands as the National Flag of Jamaica is raised to signal achievement pf Independence between them is the Governor General, Sir Kenneth Blackburne and on the right of the Princess is the Hon. Sir Alexander Bustamante, prime minister. At the Earl’s left is Mr. Norman Manley, Leader of the Opposition and at lower right is Mr. Norman Manley, Leader of the Opposition and at lower right, Vice-President Lyndon Johnson of the United States and Mrs. Johnson. JULY 25 - 31, 2013 • 13
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Message Continue to be proud and promote the best of Jamaica
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S WE start our 51st year as an independent nation, our island continues to meet the challenges that face us with strong determination and immense confidence that we will succeed and create greater opportunities for future generations. This confidence and determination comes from the love and dedication shown by Jamaicans in Jamaica and in the Diaspora. This was evident by the record number of delegates who attended this year’s Biennial Diaspora Conference in Montego Bay from 16 to 19 June. It was a wonderful show of confidence in the future of the country as many who attended the conference also signaled their readiness to invest in Jamaica. There are many achievements of which we can be proud. Our country is regarded worldwide as one of the most
beautiful places on earth, our multi-cultural mosaic is a fine example of people from different backgrounds living in harmony and is a true reflection of our national motto, ‘Out of Many One People.’ Our citizens at home and abroad continue to succeed in many spheres from athletics to academics; in business and in international diplomacy, they have kept the Jamaican flag flying high. I truly believe that Jamaicans have learned well from the past and I am sure that our achievements will fortify us to approach the future with sound plans and great hope. May I wish for all of us Jamaicans, and those who love our country and support us, a happy anniversary and ask that we continue to be proud and promote the best of Jamaica. JAMAICAN HIGH COMMISSIONER, HER EXCELLENCY ALOUN NDOMBET-ASSAMBA
Contributed Photo NY CG Herman LaMont reads the PM’s message at the annual Service of Thanksgiving celebrating the nation of Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary of Independence on Sunday July 29, 2012 held at Riverside Church in Morningside Heights, New York City.
Diaspora urged to fast and pray for their homeland By Aubrey Campbell,
NEW YORK, NY: CONSUL GENERAL of Jamaica to New York, Hon. Herman G. LaMont, has called on Jamaicans in the Diaspora to remember the land of their birth at this time. Addressing members of the Clergy Coalition at a recent meeting at the offices of the Consulate General of Jamaica in Manhattan, CG LaMont said that he was looking forward to this year’s Jamaica Diaspora Day of Prayer & Fasting, on Thursday, August 1. “By the Grace of the Almighty, I look forward to this year’s prayer and fasting, to focus and pray for the improvement of the moral, social and economic well-being in our homeland, Jamaica and the world,” CG LaMont offered. A consortium of clergy aided by Jamaica’s Diplomatic and Consular Missions Overseas along with corporate support, will stage the 9th annual Jamaica Diaspora Day of Prayer and Fasting (JDOP) for Jamaica’s Spiritual Renewal and Transformation on Thursday, August 1, 2013 - Emancipation Day. Conceptualized by the Brooklyn-based Intercessory Prayer Ministry
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International (IPMI), Churches and places of worship will open their doors throughout the day for Jamaicans to take time out of their busy schedule to offer a word of prayer. At the end of the day, selected churches in each jurisdiction will convene an ecumenical (non-denominational) worship service, using an established prayer outline.
PRAYER OUTLINE The prayer outline take into account the social and economic challenges and opportunities of the day, facing Jamaicans at home. CG LaMont used the occasion to offer a special thanks, on behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, to IPMI, the clergy coalition and participants, especially in the USA, UK and Canada. The Reverend Christopher Neilson, first time chair of the preparatory committee, noted that as in previous years, the JDOP will, “seek to exponentially expand and extend, through conviction in Christ, the work of the churches and leadership of the Steering Committee in collaboration with the Jamaican Consulates and High Commissions” Jamaicans in the Diaspora are once again being called
upon to pause, pray and provide in a tangible way for the spiritual renewal and transformation of our beloved island nation. “We firmly and unabashedly believe that prayer changes things and avails much. Please join us in prayer for Jamaica, Land we love. This call and challenge goes out to every denomination, Jamaicans in every walk of life, and all who hold the affairs of Jamaica near and dear to their hearts,” noted Rev. Neilson, New Life Christian Church of Philadelphia, PA. Some 35 churches and places of worship in the Diaspora have already signed on to the program which is being supported in part by IPMI, Jamaica Broilers Group, Ltd and Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill. Offerings from the event will benefit two designated charities in Jamaica; The Coalition in Support of Adolescent Leadership Training (CSALT) and The Pregnancy Resource Center of Jamaica (PRCJ). Churches and places of worship, wishing to participate in the day of prayer and fasting should contact, IPMI at 718-241-2162 or visit the organization’s website at; www.goipmi.org
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Jamaica’s National Symbols
Coat of Arms
Ackee Representatives designed the Jamaican Flag which consists of a diagonal cross with four triangles placed side by side. The diagonal cross is gold; the top and bottom triangles are green; and the hoist and fly (side) triangles are black. Symbolism THE SUN shineth, the land is green and the people are strong and creative is the symbolism of the colours of the flag. Black depicts the strength and creativity of the people; Gold, the natural wealth and beauty of sunlight; and green, hope and agricultural resources.
National Flag
JAMAICAN NATIONAL FLAG THE JAMAICA National Flag was first raised on Independence Day, August 6, 1962. It signifies the birth of
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our nation. The Flag brings to mind memories of past achievements and gives inspiration towards further success. It is flown on many triumphant occasions, showing
the pride that Jamaicans have in their country and in the flag itself. Design A BIPARTISAN committee of the Jamaica House of
JAMAICAN COAT OF ARMS THE JAMAICAN national motto is Out of Many One People , based on the population s multi-racial roots. The motto is represented on the
Coat of Arms, showing a male and female member of the Taino tribe standing on either side of a shield which bears a red cross with five golden pineapples. The crest shows a Jamaican crocodile mounted on the Royal Helmet of the British Monarchy and mantling.
JAMAICAN NATIONAL FRUIT THE ACKEE (Blighia Sapida) Carry me ackee go a Linstead Market, not a quattie wud sell is a line in the popular Jamaican folk song Linstead Market . Ackee is the national fruit of Jamaica as well as a component of the national dish, ackee and codfish. Although the ackee is not indigenous to Jamaica, it has remarkable historic associations. Originally, it was imported to the island from West Africa, probably on a
slave ship. Now it grows here luxuriantly, producing large quantities of edible fruit each year. Ackee is derived from the original name Ankye which comes from the Twi language of Ghana. The botanical name of the fruit — Blighia Sapida — was given in honour of Captain William Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame, who in 1793 took plants of the fruit from Jamaica to England. Captain Bligh also brought the first breadfruit to Jamaica. Before this, the ackee was unknown to science. In 1778 Dr Thomas Clarke, one of the earliest propogators of the tree, introduced it to the eastern parishes. Ackee is a very delicious fruit and when boiled and cooked with seasoning and salt fish or salt pork, it is considered one of Jamaica s greatest delicacies.
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National Symbols of superstition. The Arawaks spread the belief that the bird had magical powers. They called it the God bird , believing it was the reincarnation of dead souls. This is manifested in a folk song which says: Doctor Bud a cunny bud, hard bud fe dead . (It is a clever bird which cannot be easily killed).
Humming Bird
JAMAICAN NATIONAL FLOWER - Lignum Vitae (Guiacum Officinale) The Lignum Vitae was found here by Christopher Columbus. Its name, when translated from Latin, means wood of life — probably adopted because of its medicinal qualities. The short,
JAMAICAN NATIONAL BIRD - The Doctor-Bird (Trochilus Polytmus) or Swallow-Tail Hummingbird The doctor bird or swallow tail humming bird, is one of the most outstanding of the 320 species of hummingbirds. It lives only in Jamaica. These birds beautiful feathers have no counterpart in the entire bird population and they produce iridescent colours characterstic only of that family. In addition to these beautiful feathers, the mature male has tow long tails which stream
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behind him when he flies. For years the doctor bird has been immortalized in Jamaican folklore and song. The origin of the name Docor-bird is somewhat unsettled. It has been said that the name was given because the erect black crest and tails resemble the top hat and long tail coats doctors used to wear in the old days. Other schools of thought believe that it refers to the way the birds lance the flowers with their bills to extract nectar. According to Frederic Cassidy the bird is an object
Lignum Vitae flowers
compact tree is native to continental tropical American and the West Indies. In Jamaica it grows best in the dry woodland along the north and south coasts of the island. The plant is extremely ornamental, producing an attractive blue flower and orange-yellow fruit, while its crown has an attractive rounded shape. The tree is one of the most useful in the world. The body, gum, bark, fruit, leaves and blossom all serve some useful purpose. In fact, the tree has been regarded for its medicinal properties. A gum (gum guaiac) obtained from its resin was once regarded as a purgative. It was exported to Europe from the early sixteenth century as a remedy (combined with mercury) for syphillis and has also been used as a remedy for gout. The wood was once used as propeller shaft bearings in nearly all the ships sailing
the Seven Seas . Because of this, Lignum Vitae and Jamaica are closely associated in shipyards worldwide. It is a very heavy wood which will sink in water. Because of its toughness it is used for items such as mortars, mallets, pulleys and batons carried by policemen. Sometimes it is used for furniture.
JAMAICAN NATIONAL TREE
The name mahoe is derived from a Carib Indian word. The blue refers to blue-green streaks in the polished wood, giving it a distinctive appearance. The inner bark of the tree is often referred to as Cuba bark because it was formerly used for tying bundles of Havana cigars. Cuba is the only other place where the Blue Mahoe grows naturally.
- The Blue Mahoe (Hibiscus Elatus) The Blue Mahoe is the national tree of Jamaica. It is indigenous to the island and grows quite rapidly, often attaining 20m (66ft) or more in height. In wetter districts it will grow in a wide range of elevations, up to 1200m (4000 ft.) and is often used in reforestation. The tree is quite attractive with its straight trunk, broad green leaves and hibiscus-like flowers. The attractive flower changes colour as it matures, going from bright yellow to orange red and finally to crimson.
Blue Mahoe
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Investing in
JAMAICA J
AMAICA POSSESSES the distinct qualities of a vibrant emerging market with enormous possibilities for trade and inward investment. It has the largest English-speaking workforce in the Caribbean, and is known globally for its creative and enterprising spirit. The island’s strategic location at the gateway of the major air and sea routes into the Caribbean translates to strategic and tactical advantage. It is within easy reach of major markets, with over half a billion of the world’s population living within a four-hour flight radius of Jamaica. These attributes, coupled with sophisticated infrastructure and a stable business climate, have aided Jamaica’s emergence as a regional hub for trade and an important investment destination for major transnational corporations (TNCs). The country’s diversified market economy offers an exciting range of investment projects of significant scale in the key sectors of Information and Communications Technology (ICT)/Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), Tourism, Manufacturing and Logistics. As an open economy, the island is well integrated into the global economy with external trade contributing prominently to overall economic activity.
ICT/BPO In the ICT/BPO sector, Jamaica has emerged as the leading contact centre location in the English-speaking Caribbean with more than 13,000 full-time agents in offshore BPO companies. With near shore access to the
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United States, neutral English accent, low attrition rates and high labour force availability at competitive rates, Jamaica has been recognised by information technology research firm Gartner as a destination to watch. The country has been able to attract industry heavyweights such ACS (Xerox), Teleperformance, West Corporation, Hinduja and Sutherland Global Services.
exploring the many opportunities in Jamaica, JAMPRO the national investment and export promotion agency - is the gateway that connects the world to Jamaica. The agency works closely with business interests from around the globe to enable them to tap into the wealth of investment and trade opportunities available in the country. JAMPRO operates under the direction of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, and facilitates investment by guiding investors through the necessary processes to ensure expedient and successful start-up.
TOURISM Jamaica’s beautiful and salubrious environment, world-class medical professionals, cost effective health care and proximity to the North American market have positioned the country to attract value-added investments in the health and wellness tourism segment. Products in this area include hospital hotels, lifestyle/retirement villages and boutique wellness spas. The introduction of casino gaming in the island by the government is an exciting prospect that is framed within the context of approved integrated tourism resorts. This refers to developments with an investment value of no less than US$1.5 billion and room capacity of 2,000, in addition to other amenities such as a spa or golfing facilities. Among the opportunities that exist in the sector are the development of upscale resorts, ecotourism and adventure-type attractions, shopping villages and mixed-use projects. From agro-processing, baked goods, bedding and leather to stone and clay products, Jamaica boasts a diverse array of manufactur-
F o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m ation, contact a JAMPRO facilitator:
Workers at Jamaica’s -ICT Command Centre. ing enterprises. The sector includes small, medium and large enterprises that manufacture for both the local and export markets. Many of Jamaica’s manufactured brands are well recognised internationally. The unique flavours of Jamaica’s raw material inputs go into the making of teas, assorted beverages, sauces, spices and condiments. Diverse sub-sectors include chemicals, pharmaceuticals, clothing and furniture. Another key manufacturing opportunity in Jamaica exists in the area medical devices such as disposables, equipment and diagnostic substances. In choosing Jamaica for medical devices manufacturing, investors can count on cost competitiveness, strategic location to
North America the Caribbean and South American markets and excellent market access rooted in a number of strategic bilateral arrangements.
LOGISTICS With the expansion of the Panama Canal resulting in the doubling of its current capacity by the year 2014, Jamaica is poised to benefit significantly from the expected increase in cargo passing through the Canal to regional transshipment points. As the island commences its transformation into the fourth pillar in the global supply and logistics chain alongside Singapore, Dubai and Rotterdam, business interests can gain first mover advantage on the many investment opportunities that are opening up in the maritime, air, manufac-
turing and logistics and related industries. The Jamaica Logistics Hub will create numerous business and job opportunities in materials management, distribution services (national and global), consolidation/deconsolidation, storage, inventory management, shipment scheduling, order processing, product sub-assembly, packing, labelling and other maritime ancillary services. The Government of Jamaica is already in discussion with some prospective partners as well as looking for new ones to participate in this high priority economic growth activity that will generate a myriad of opportunities for global and domestic commercial and industry interests. For persons interested
Claude Duncan Vice President, Investment Promotion 876-978-7755 Ext. 2201 cduncan@jamprocorp.com Laurence Jones Manager, European Regional Office London 44-20-584-8894 ljones@jamprocorp.com Robert Kerr Manager, North American Regional Office Toronto 416-932-2200 (direct) 416-598-3008 Ext. 239 rkerr@jamprocorp.com Mark Thomas Manager, Corporate Communications 876-978-7755 Ext. 2284 mthomas@jamprocorp.com
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The road to freedom
Below is an excerpt written by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust in recognition of Emancipation Day celebrations.
T
HIS YEAR marks the 175th anniversary of Emancipation, the end of African enslavement or to some simply ‘full freedom’. Prior to Jamaica’s Independence in 1962, Emancipation Day was celebrated on the annual calendar. After Independence, this day was no longer recognised. In 1997, Emancipation Day was re-instituted by then Prime Minister P.J. Patterson as a national holiday celebrated on August 1. Independence Day was also fixed at August 6. At this time of year, we reflect on the sacrifices made by our ancestors in the fight for full freedom. Enslavement is generally associated with the British occupation of the island (1655-1962). Enslavement was not restricted to Africans. Slavery was promoted by the various European colonisers of the region - the Spanish, Dutch, French, and British. The first cultures to be enslaved were the indigenous populations such as the Jamaican Tainos (ca. AD 650-1600), In Jamaica, Spanish
colonisation began in May 1494 with the arrival of Christopher Columbus. The island, however, was not settled until 1509, when Don Diego Columbus, the son of Christopher Columbus ordered Juan de Esquivel to establish the town of Sevilla La Nueva.
AGRICULTURAL BASE The Spanish hoped that Jamaica would become a gold mining centre. By 1512, it was realised that there was no gold on the island. This resulted in the majority of settlers relocating to the mainland of the Americas. The island was subsequently developed as an agricultural base to supply food and other Ta’nan products to the mainland and Cuba where gold was being mined. These products included yuca (cassava), casabi (cassava bread), maiz (corn), pimienta (pimento) and salt along with hamaca (hammocks), and tabacu’ (tobacco). The Taino people, whom Columbus had labelled meek and inclined towards Christianity, were forced into the repartimientos system later known as the encomienda system, which were similar to chattel slavery. The system proved catastrophic for the Tainos. The Encomienda System
File Leonie Forbes (left) narrates the developments leading to Emancipation, while Patsy Ricketts (right) leads dancers in expressing the cry for freedom at ‘Full Free-150’, a dramatisation of the events leading up to Emancipation in 1838, at the Spanish Town Square in 1988.
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required Tainos to be grouped, with each group under the leadership of a cacique working on the Spanish plantations and in the mines. The Encomienda System was created to control and regulate labour and the behaviour of the Tainos. Under this system, the encomenderos who were the Spaniards were supposed to protect and Christianise the Tainos, but they often abused the system effectively enslaving the indigenous people.
OVERWORKED AND ABUSED The Tainos were overworked, ill-treated, ill-fed and their lands stolen. This contributed to the demise of the Taino within 50 years of the arrival of the Spanish. Others died because they were not immune to European diseases such as smallpox and some were brutally killed by the Spanish. Due to the harsh conditions that they were subjected to, many indigenous people took their own lives. Others migrated into the mountainous interior and established free settlements and the earliest bands of the Jamaican maroons. To replenish the labour pool, the Spaniards began importing enslaved Africans from West Africa. The first arrived in 1513 from Spain and Portugal. This region, called the Iberian Peninsula, is separated from Africa by the Mediterranean Sea. The black-skinned Moors, who were Muslims, were purchased from slave raiders who worked the African coast or were taken captive in one of the frequent mili-
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tary clashes between Spain and Morocco that continued long after the Moors were expelled from the Iberian Peninsula in 1492. The enslaved included servants, cowboys, and herders of cattle, pigs and horses, as well as hunters. This year marks the 500th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans.
THE ENGLISH ERA Jamaica remained under Spanish rule for 161 years. When the English captured the island in 1655, the enslavement of Africans became more degrading. Between 1655 and 1658, the Spanish freed many Africans in order to gain support in their battle against the British. Some Africans joined forces with the Spanish, but many fled to the mountains, interbred with remaining Taino and resisted the British for many years. They became known as Maroons. The word ‘Maroon’ is derived from the Spanish word cimarr—n which means ‘wild horse, runaway or fugitive.’ The Maroons are the first ‘emancipated’ Africans in the region. They fought for centuries to preserve their freedom and culture. Two peace treaties were signed between the British and the Maroons, in 1739 and 1740. The first was signed by Cudjoe on behalf of the Leeward Maroons and by Colonel John Guthrie and Captain Sadler on behalf of the British Government. A second treaty was signed by Colonel Robert Bennet on behalf of the British Government with the Windward Maroons.
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Celebrating Jamaica’s culture Scores turn out for workshop on local proverbs
A
S THE Jamaican High Commission in London rolled out its programme of activities to mark Jamaica’s 51th Anniversary of Independence in in the UK, at least one event last week was dedicated to celebrating Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage. It was an evening which saw an exploration of Jamaican proverbs and sayings and discussions encapsulating their relevance among the Jamaican diaspora and the world. The event was organised by Richmond Tyser, Andrea Campbell and Chermiah Hart and funded by the National Heritage Lottery UK and hosted by ACT Training Services in association with Hart Culture CIC. The evening began at 6:30 with a delicious array of Jamaican canapés and wine reception. This was followed by workshop featuring discussions and analysis of the Jamaican proverbs. Participants demonstrating how their principles could be used as tools to guide morality, conduct, discipline and teamwork.
ELECTRIC ATMOSPHERE “The atmosphere was absolutely electric” said Sandra Wright from Camptys Foundation, a charitable organisation set up to help disabled children in the
Caribbean. “These discussions are very important if we are to create a lasting legacy which will have a positive impact on young people and benefit generations to come.” “As someone born in the UK of Jamaican heritage, I found these discussions particularly useful” said Chermiah Hart of Hart Culture CIC. “It made me realise the wisdom behind these proverbs and how essential they can be in shaping one’s outlook, motivation and approach to life”. Another high point of the evening was the celebration of three of Jamaica’s cultural icons through poetry reading and musical performance. These were distinguished pioneers Louise Bennett -Coverley, Robert Nesta Marley and Dr. Olive Lewin. There were also presentations from J a m a i c a n Proverbs, People and Places, Wit Wisdom and A c h i e v e m e n t s a book by Andrea Campbell. The work comprises some 600 adages used in Jamaica and includes information on Jamaica, local places of interest, people, its national heroes, symbols, folklore, food, fauna and flora. The books highlights too several of the country’s high achievers and outstanding individ-
uals who are making significant contributions internationally. Over one hundred people of Jamaican heritage and varying cultures and ethnicities attended the programme. There were also representatives from various charities and organisations from all across the UK.
From left: Richmond Tyser, Andrea Campbell and Chermiah Hart
“These discussions are very important if we are to create a lasting legacy which will have a positive impact on young people and benefit generations to come.”
Contributed Richmond Tyser speaks at a UK promotional event for the book ‘Jamaican Proverbs, People and Places’.
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Jamaica’s history captured in photography A By Neil Armstrong
S JAMAICA prepares to celebrate its 51st anniversary of Independence, a recently published book takes readers on a journey of the country’s post-emancipation history. Jamaica in Black and White, Photography in Jamaica c.1845-c.1920: the David Boxer Collection contains rare black and white photographs of sites, personalities and events surrounding the so-called Morant Bay Rebellion of 1865, the earthquake and fire that destroyed Kingston in 1907 and the rebuilding of a new city. Boxer, the director emeritus and former chief curator of the National Gallery of Jamaica, has, during the past thirty-five years, curated over a hundred exhibitions charting important aspects of Jamaican and Caribbean art history. Along with Edward LucieSmith, an internationally renowned art critic and historian, Boxer has produced a coffee table book, published by Macmillian Education in the UK, that charts the course of Jamaica through the lens of the camera between 1845-1920. “In Jamaica, photography entered the scene just too late to record slavery in its
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final phase. What it did record was the evolution of the island towards increasing equality and democracy and, eventually, full independence,” writes LucieSmith in the opening essay, ‘The camera discovers Jamaica.’ Tracing the history of photography in Jamaica, Boxer, whose first acquisition for this collection was a Duperly print made in the late 1890s of the Rio Cobre, said, “it transported me to another time, but simultaneously allowed me to re-experience that visual and spiritual excitement that I feel every time I cross Flat Bridge and drive through that extraordinary gorge.”
print technology, lithography. He arrived in Jamaica in 1824 and decided to settle in Kingston where ten years later he married Louise Desnoes, a young Haitian Creole of Eastern Caribbean origin.
They had four sons, two of whom joined their father in the photography business. An interesting item of note highlighted by Boxer is that at the time of the Morant Bay Rebellion, “the Duperly firm was in a fortuitous posi-
tion as George William Gordon, who was hanged for his perceived role as a leader of the rebellion, had sat for the firm some time in the early 1860s.” The firm was able to produce copies, which resulted in the
country having a true representation of its national hero. The 303-page book, published in May 2013, is a collector’s item for those interested in the history of Jamaica through photography.
SIXTEEN SEQUENCES There are sixteen sequences in the book which “display the changing landscape and the built environments of Jamaica, the principal agricultural industries, and the Jamaican people.” The book bears the photograph of a Mandeville couple, Darby, aged 114, and Joan, aged, 103, believed to be ‘ex-slaves’ and was taken c.1910, seventy-two years after abolition. Boxer notes that the story of photography in Jamaica began with Adolphe Duperly, a Frenchman who had travelled to the Caribbean, to Haiti, to teach the latest
Contributed Photo The lifetime awards to Donald Quarrie and Marlene Ottey were presented by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, A.J. Nicholson (left) and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Aloun Ndombet Assamba (right).
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Mandela to be saluted in ‘Freedom Song’ F REEDOM SONG is this year’s tribute to Jamaican freedom fighters who worked to bring Emancipation to our forebears. This season, the Pantomime Company will dedicate the production to South Africa’s first black president, Nelson Mandela, who has been a source of inspiration to Jamaicans as well as other people of the world. The Little Theatre Movement has made linkages with Her Excellency Mathu Joyini, South African high commissioner, and her staff who have graciously agreed to provide material to be displayed in tribute to one of the world’s most revered leaders.
STREET PHRASE In 1991, following Mandela’s visit to Jamaica, the LTM titled that season’s National Pantomime Man Deh Yah, a street phrase which then Vice-Chancellor Professor Rex Nettleford used when he called together the University of the West Indies’ Special Convocation, where President Mandela was honoured. The Pantomime Company has revived the title song Man Deh Yah, lyrics by
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Contributed A scene from the production ‘Freedom Song’ opening August 1 at the LittleLittle Theatre. The production will be dedicated to Nelson Mandela. Barbara Gloudon and music by Grub Cooper, to “hail the man” who is, unfortunately, ailing. Freedom Song opens on August 1 at the Little Little Theatre and will run to August 4. The production features song, dance, poetry and drama, presented by a team of performers comprised of well-known members of the Pantomime Company, who
return each summer to salute their country’s heritage. Besides honouring Mandela, the production will also hail Jamaican leaders who have been given the status of Hero for their contribution to the nation’s freedom and development. Music includes compositions by Gloudon and Cooper, performed to the sound of flute and drums.
JIS Photo Students of St Hilda’s Diocesan High School, in Brown’s Town, St Ann, assemble on the school’s campus with effigies of National Heroes and prominent public figures, to participate in a procession prior to the start of Friday’s (June 28) closing ceremony for the school’s Legacy Village project, staged over the past 12 months, which formed part the school’s contribution to Jamaica’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
JULY 25 - 31, 2013 • 23
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THE WEEKLY GLEANER 23/10/2012 10:15