Jamaica Preparing For Its 60th Anniversary
Jamaica gained independence from the United Kingdom on 6 August 1962. Therefore, this date is celebrated as Independence Day in Jamaica. In the upcoming year, Jamaica is all set to celebrate its 60th anniversary – a diamond jubilee.
What Does Independence Mean in Jamaica?
As the new constitution was approved by the Legislature in February 1962, Premier Norman Manley called General Elections. Alexander Bustamante became the first Prime Minister of Jamaica in April. Jamaica became a member of the British Commonwealth on 6 August 1962.
No doubt, Britain cannot control the affairs of the country with Jamaica becoming an Independent Nation. As Jamaica became an independent nation, controlling the affairs of the country was the responsibility of the locally elected Cabinet and the newly elected Prime Minister.
Most importantly, becoming an independent nation meant that a Constitution, symbols, an army, Jamaican currency and passports had to be developed.
After gaining independence, Jamaica assigns ambassadors to represent the country. It was the responsibility of ambassadors overseas to sign treaties on behalf of Jamaica. Also, they became members of various international organizations. For this reason, Jamaica was able to get equal rights on various issues relating to international policies, trade, and treaties.
Meaning of Jamaica’s Independenc
The meaning of independence for Jamaica is that Britain no longer controlled the country’s affairs. As discussed before, that was the responsibility of the newly elected Prime Minister and the locally elected cabinet.
Jamaica became an independent nation meant freedom of mind, freedom of speech, and freedom to live an independent lifestyle. On August 6 each year, Jamaica commemorates its freedom from British colonial occupation. It is a day of grand celebrations in Jamaica from paying tribute to the fallen heroes who fought for the country to indulge in music, dance and entertainment.
Jamaica 60 Anniversary
According to the Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the preparations are in high gear to mark Jamaica 60 anniversary in 2022. Olivia Grange says that we are all set to celebrate the 60th anniversary in the upcoming year. “We are already ready with the Jamaica 60 logo, which was selected through a competition,” she said in a video message aired at the National Emancipation and Independence Thanksgiving Service.
She made a special statement regarding the novel coronavirus. She appealed to everyone to observe Covid-19 protocols as well as get vaccinated to assist the country’s recovery. She said that we have the vaccines products in place, wear your masks, keep your distance, sanitize and prepare for a great celebration in 2022.
The minister also hailed the courage of Jamaicans, stating that the country has been blessed with many achievements. Though the pandemic has caused big troubles, the country is all set to celebrate its special day.
No doubt, getting an independence day was harder for people. There were some who had felt it even harder than others. At the same time, so many displayed courage and resilience, which should not be forgotten.
Every year on August 6, the country celebrates the removal of its dependence on Britain. Indeed, it has been a great victory since 6 August 1962. With Independence, Jamaica is now able to control specific functions of the country. On this day, the country is preparing to honor all those persons who contributed a lot to the transfer of power. Also, the country will honor six National Heroes and one Heroine in recognition of their contribution to the independence of our nation.
National Committee to Plan Activities for Diamond Jubilee in 2022
A national committee is all set to plan a range of activities to celebrate the Jamaica 60 Anniversary – Diamond jubilee in 2022. Olivia Grange, the Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports said that it will be the responsibility of the secretariat for commemorative events and special projects at the ministry to plan, implement and monitor activities for Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of Independence.
Currently, the groundwork for the celebrations is being laid down by the project director, secretariat for commemorative events and special projects at the ministry. He said that the secretariat is charged with planning activities under the direction of Grange. Also, these plans will go before the committee. It will involve civil society and the Opposition.
No doubt, Jamaica is just more than excited to celebrate its 60th anniversary. This day reminds its people of the national heroes who fought for the independence of the country. Everyone has to play his/her role to contribute to the grand celebrations in Jamaica.
