Maryland Gov. Wes Moore celebrates Jamaican roots at Caribbean Heritage Festival

Maryland Governor Wes Moore celebrated his Jamaican heritage on Saturday while addressing hundreds of Caribbean nationals and supporters at the Caribbean Heritage Festival held at Bladensburg Waterfront Park.

The annual event transformed the waterfront into a vibrant showcase of Caribbean culture, with attendees representing countries across the region through music, traditional food, performances and national colors.

Speaking to the crowd, Moore highlighted his family connection to Jamaica, noting that his mother, Joy Thomas Moore, is from Trelawny.

“I know where I come from,” he said. “I am proud of my Jamaican heritage and proud of my Caribbean heritage.”

Moore praised the resilience and determination of Caribbean people, describing them as communities that persist through challenges while honoring the sacrifices of previous generations.

The governor also used the occasion to outline policy priorities aimed at supporting immigrant communities and expanding economic opportunity across Maryland. He referenced a recent executive order establishing a task force focused on immigrant rights and safety, as well as initiatives designed to strengthen protections for diverse communities.

“Maryland is not just a safe haven for Caribbean people,” Moore told attendees. “It is a place where everyone, regardless of their origin story, has an opportunity to grow, thrive and succeed.”

He also highlighted efforts to expand access for minority-owned businesses, noting that procurement reforms have directed significant state contracts toward minority enterprise, including Caribbean-owned companies. Moore further referenced legislation aimed at preventing book bans in schools and libraries.

A major highlight of the festival was Moore’s proclamation that June 2026 will officially be observed as Caribbean American Heritage Month in Maryland, replacing the traditional timing previously observed, drawing strong applause from the crowd.

Standing alongside members of Maryland’s Caribbean Commission and community leaders, he formally signed the proclamation recognizing the contributions of Caribbean Americans to the state’s social and economic development.

The festival featured performances from Image Band, Proverbs Reggae Band, DJ Najair and Chutney dancer Adrianna Jordan, concluding with a celebration of Caribbean culture and unity.

For many attendees, the governor’s remarks were seen as both a cultural tribute and a reaffirmation of the Caribbean diaspora’s growing influence in Maryland’s civic and economic life.