Miami consul general praises diaspora support as Jamaica marks 64th anniversary of Independence

Jamaica's Consul General to Miami, Roderick Oliver Mair, is crediting the Jamaican diaspora across the southern United States for its continued support of the island's recovery and development as the nation prepares to celebrate its 64th anniversary of Independence.

In an Independence message, Mair thanked Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica for their contributions following Hurricane Melissa and for their ongoing investments in education, health, culture and social development.

"On behalf of the Consulate General of Jamaica, Miami, I extend greetings to my Diaspora family as we give thanks and celebrate another year — our 64th anniversary of Independence as a sovereign nation," Mair said.

Referencing this year's Independence theme, "Jamaica 64 – United in Celebrating Resilience," Mair said the country remains focused on rebuilding following last October's hurricane while recognizing the role played by Jamaicans overseas.

He said the Jamaican government is grateful for the response from members of the diaspora within the Consulate General's jurisdiction, which spans 13 states across the southern United States.

According to Mair, charitable organizations, corporate partners, alumni associations and individual supporters have continued to contribute to recovery efforts in health, education, culture, entertainment and social services. He also acknowledged organizations that assisted with transporting relief supplies to Jamaica.

Among those recognized were the Global Empowerment Mission and Food For the Poor, which continue to support hurricane recovery efforts. Mair also highlighted two major fundraising concerts organized with the Consulate General. The Stay Strong Concert at the Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood, Florida, raised more than $400,000, while the Build Jamaica Concert, held in partnership with the Dare to Care Foundation of the Faith Centre, raised $150,000.

He said proceeds from the Build Jamaica Concert have already funded two new homes for families in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, one of the communities hardest hit by the hurricane, while reconstruction efforts continue on homes, schools, roads, medical facilities and other infrastructure.

Mair also pointed to the success of the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, held in June in Montego Bay, which attracted about 2,000 participants from diaspora communities worldwide. He said the conference's Day of Service mobilized volunteers to undertake projects supporting Jamaica's economic recovery.

The consul general also praised the work of the Consulate General's staff and honorary consuls in Houston and Atlanta, noting that the growing Jamaican population across the southern United States has increased demand for consular services.

He said the Consulate General plans to launch a new website featuring artificial intelligence capabilities while continuing its weekly Link Up Live virtual program to keep members of the diaspora informed.

Despite the progress made, Mair said Jamaica's development depends on continued collaboration between the homeland and its overseas communities.

"My Diaspora family, your support to the various initiatives locally and in Jamaica has positively impacted development. However, the work continues," he said.

He urged Jamaicans to remain resilient, committed to personal development and united in supporting the country's future.

Jamaica will celebrate its 64th anniversary of Independence on Aug. 6.