News Americas, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Mon. Aug. 6, 2012: Jamaicans are being urged to recommit to values which will keep their families strong and the children safe and protected.
The call came from the country’s Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen ON, as Jamaica marked its 50th anniversary of independence from Britain today, August 6th.
“In celebrating our Jubilee, we remember that the essential concept includes the embrace of justice and social equity —responding to the needs of the poor, the marginalized, and the weak and being good neighbours toward everyone with whom we come in contact.
“It is through our commitment to justice and social equity that we will deal with the challenges of corruption, greed and selfishness which have conspired to rob us of the progress we desire and deserve. Let us commit to a determined effort to right the wrongs of our past and to ‘Let justice run down like a river and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream,” he added.
Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller added: “As a nation we have much to celebrate. Across the country our patriotism is seen in the vibrant Jamaican colors everywhere. In this spirit of patriotism, every Jamaican must ‘find the flag in our hearts’ and wave it high.”
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, pledged the US’ support to Jamaica and insisted she looks “forward to working even more closely together to promote sustainable economic development, particularly through the Caribbean IdEA Marketplace.”
She also urged Jamaicans to use the day as “an opportunity to reflect on your decades of progress as you continue to build a brighter future.”
“For 50 years, the United States and Jamaica have enjoyed a close friendship based on trust and mutual interest, strengthened by the people-to-people ties and a vibrant Jamaican-American community. Our collaboration within the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative is helping us move toward a safer and more secure environment for our citizens, and I am confident that our efforts will result in increased prosperity and stability for Jamaica and the United States,” she added.
