As Jamaica celebrates its Independence Day, Oliver Mair, Jamaica’s Consul General for Southern USA, has shared an inspiring message emphasizing the importance of unity, cultural heritage, and the resilience of Jamaicans both at home and across the Diaspora.
In his message, Mair highlighted the unique attributes that make Jamaicans special, urging everyone to strengthen these qualities as they celebrate with family and friends. He emphasized the community’s dedication to preserving Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage, which is showcased through numerous events that have become staples on the community calendar.
Mair praised the consistent track record of the Diaspora in giving back to Jamaica, reflecting the community’s love for their country. He pointed to the immediate response by Jamaicans and friends of the Diaspora to the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Beryl to Jamaica and other Caribbean neighbors, including Grenada, St. Vincent, and Barbados. This response, he said, exemplifies the fortitude and resilience of the Jamaican people.
Appreciation for volunteers and charitable partners
As Dean of the Caribbean Consular Corps in South Florida, Mair expressed profound appreciation to individuals, corporations, and charitable associations across the Diaspora for their volunteer efforts and resource contributions to help those in hard-hit areas. He specifically thanked the Caribbean Resource Fund, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), and international charitable partners like the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) and Food for the Poor (FFP) for their significant contributions to relief efforts.
Mair urged continued support for the Hurricane Beryl Relief Fund, established by the Government of Jamaica through the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). He encouraged monetary contributions to assist in the ongoing relief efforts, providing the donation link for ease of access: Hurricane Beryl Relief Fund.
The Consul General also took the opportunity to thank the many Diasporans who contributed to and attended the recent 10th Biennial National Diaspora Conference in Montego Bay. The four-day event brought together over 1,000 nationals and friends from around the globe, focusing on Jamaica’s promising future with a packed agenda of engaging speakers, plenary sessions, workshops, and a Jamaican Marketplace.
Mair concluded his message with sincere gratitude on behalf of the Government of Jamaica for the contributions made by nationals within the jurisdiction of the Consulate General.
Related: Prime Minister Andrew Holness reflects on Jamaica’s journey in Independence message
