Jamaica’s transition to republic status, even without immediately resolving the final court of appeal issue, is a “practical and sensible” approach to constitutional reform.
This was stated by Prime Minister Andrew Holness in his Independence Message to the Diaspora, delivered at the 190th Emancipation Church Service and the 62nd Independence Church Service held at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland on Sunday, July 28.
“Moving to republic status, even without immediately resolving the issue of the final court of appeal, is a practical and sensible approach to constitutional reform,” Holness said. He argued that it was time for Jamaica to end its historical ties to the monarchy and become independent with a Jamaican head of state who embodies the nation’s values, culture and aspirations.
Hundreds of Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica attended the event, which included a sermon by Pastor Everett Brown, president of the Jamaica Union of Seventh-day Adventists. The celebration also featured the presentation of awards to members of the District of Columbia-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) diaspora who were recognized for their extraordinary contributions.
In his message, Holness said constitutional reform was crucial to Jamaica’s identity, sovereignty and transition to a republic. He noted: “True independence is both political and economic. It means having control over our future and fostering an environment in which local businesses can thrive, our youth can obtain meaningful employment and innovation and entrepreneurship are the foundation of our economy.”
– Advertisement –
Holness highlighted the government’s investments in education, skills training, technology and sustainable industries to build a resilient economy that can withstand global shocks. He stressed that economic independence is essential to the sustainability of Jamaica and its people.
“Most Jamaicans would support abandoning allegiance to the monarchy, a vestige of our colonial past,” Holness said, while acknowledging that some see it as symbolic. However, he said, “symbols have immense value in shaping national identity and pride.”
The Prime Minister’s message, read publicly by the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, Ms Lishann Salmon, highlighted the complexity of constitutional reform and the need for a step-by-step approach. Holness raised important questions about the Supreme Court, suggesting that decisions regarding the Privy Council or the Caribbean Court of Justice require further consideration and consensus.
Holness concluded: “Let us come together and move forward as we continue to debate and build consensus on the next steps.” He stressed the importance of national independence, calling for collective reflection on Jamaica’s history, journey and future aspirations.
“A love for the world”
Referring to this year’s independence theme, “A Love for the World,” Pastor Brown urged Jamaicans in his sermon to show love to one another in concrete and tangible ways before extending that love to the world. He emphasized that Jamaica is much more than its famous beaches, reggae music and world-class athletes; it is a nation of character and compassion.
The ceremony also included the presentation of the Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV Award to three individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Jamaican community: Ms. Carmen Edwards, Ms. Doreen Thompson and Mr. Larry Sindass, Founder and Executive Producer of CaribNation TV. In addition, the Friends of Jamaica Award was presented to Performing Artists Under the Lord (PAUL) for their dedication to Jamaican religious service in Washington, DC for over thirty years.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the Black River Infirmary in the parish of St. Elizabeth, which suffered severe damage during Hurricane Beryl. This gesture exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity and generosity that exists within the Jamaican diaspora.
The ceremony was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials and Stanford University Professor Emeritus Dr. Donald Harris, father of US Vice President Kamala Harris.
The session was moderated by the Rev. Dr. Bertram Melbourne, dean of the School of Theology at Howard University, with assistance from the Rev. Heron Henry, communications and media director for the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention, and Bishop Stanley Murray, pastor of the Baltimore United Church of God.
Read: Jamaica prepares drafting instructions for Republican Transition Bill
