In a landmark celebration of Jamaican heritage and civic contribution, four distinguished Jamaican-Americans were jointly honored by Highland Park Mayor Elsie Foster and the Jamaica Organization of New Jersey (JON-J) during the group’s annual Awards of Excellence and Independence Gala, held July 19 at Hanover Manor in East Hanover.
The event, which forms part of Jamaica’s 63rd Independence observances, saw Mayor Foster present official municipal citations alongside JON-J’s traditional awards—signaling a new level of institutional recognition for the Caribbean diaspora’s role in American society.
The honorees—Dr. Karren Dunkley, Lynval James, Jacqueline Lewis, and Elaine Matthews—were recognized for their community service, advocacy, and leadership, each reflecting the bridge-building spirit that blends Jamaican heritage with U.S. civic life.
The handshake between Mayor Foster, a native of Trelawny, and Dr. Dunkley at the gala was emblematic of a deeper shift: one where local government moves beyond cultural acknowledgement to formally integrate diaspora excellence into civic frameworks.
“These matches are more than just a contest between two top international teams – they are part of our ongoing commitment to growing and globalizing the game,” said CWI CEO Chris Dehring. “We see it as our responsibility, as the only full ICC member nation in this hemisphere, to help shepherd the development of cricket in the United States.”
Mayor Foster’s involvement signals what observers have described as a “Municipal Validation Strategy,” recognizing that Caribbean communities contribute far more than diversity—they offer high levels of entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and healthcare advocacy.
“This model challenges traditional assumptions about immigrant integration,” said one organizer. “Rather than requiring assimilation, this partnership embraces the idea that strong cultural identity enhances civic participation.”
The honorees reflect a broad spectrum of diaspora leadership:
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Dr. Karren Dunkley, educator and former Northeast USA Diaspora Representative, delivered the keynote address and received accolades for her work in education and public service. Her remarks offered a candid reflection on Jamaica’s challenges—including rising AIDS cases—while highlighting national achievements like debt reduction and cultural impact.
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Lynval James, co-founder of JON-J, was celebrated for decades of civic leadership and community organizing, translating Caribbean values into American political engagement.
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Jacqueline Lewis was recognized for healthcare advocacy, addressing systemic gaps through culturally competent leadership.
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Elaine Matthews earned honors for her grassroots activism, laying the foundation for sustainable diaspora organizing.
JON-J, now in its 27th year, has evolved from a cultural preservation group into a respected institution recognized by municipal authorities. Mayor Foster’s participation symbolized this transition and underscored the organization’s role in building community and fostering civic contribution.
“Their dedication to service, both here in the USA and in Jamaica, reminds us that wherever we are in the world, we carry the heart of our homeland with us and can make a difference,” said Valerie Bailey, Esq., JON-J Board President.
As Jamaica approaches its 63rd year of independence on August 6, the East Hanover ceremony offers a template for future collaborations between municipal governments and diaspora communities. The dual recognition—organizational and municipal—demonstrates that cultural pride can be a driving force for civic excellence.
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