Republic status “sensible,” Jamaica's Prime Minister tells diaspora
Key Points(5)
- Jamaica moving to Republic status, even without immediately resolving the question of the final court of appeal, is a practical and sensible approach” to constitutional reform.
- That was the word from Prime Minister Andrew Holness in his Independence message to the Diaspora, delivered at the 190th Emancipation and 62nd Independence church service held at the Sligo Seventh Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 28.
- "Moving to Republic status, even without immediately resolving the question of the final court of appeal, is a practical and sensible approach to constitutional reform," stated Holness.
- He argued that it is time for Jamaica to end its historical ties with the monarchy and to stand independently with a Jamaican Head of State who embodies the nation’s values, culture, and aspirations.
- Donald Harris, father of US Vice President Kamala Harris, is greeted on arrival by Deputy Chief of Mission at the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC, Ms.
Jamaica moving to Republic status, even without immediately resolving the question of the final court of appeal, is a practical and sensible approach” to constitutional reform.
That was the word from Prime Minister Andrew Holness in his Independence message to the Diaspora, delivered at the 190th Emancipation and 62nd Independence church service held at the Sligo Seventh Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, on Sunday, July 28.
"Moving to Republic status, even without immediately resolving the question of the final court of appeal, is a practical and sensible approach to constitutional reform," stated Holness. He argued that it is time for Jamaica to end its historical ties with the monarchy and to stand independently with a Jamaican Head of State who embodies the nation’s values, culture, and aspirations.
Hundreds of Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica attended the event, which included a sermon by Pastor Everett Brown, President of the Jamaica Union of Seventh-Day Adventists. The celebration also featured awards for District of Columbia-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) diaspora members recognized for their extraordinary contributions.
In his message, Holness maintained that constitutional reform is crucial for Jamaica’s identity, sovereignty, and transition to a Republic. He noted, “True independence is both political and economic. It means having control over our future and fostering an environment where local businesses can thrive, our youth can attain meaningful employment, and innovation and entrepreneurship are the bedrock of our economy.”
Holness emphasized the government's investments in education, skills training, technology, and sustainable industries to build a resilient economy capable of withstanding global shocks. He stressed that economic independence is vital for the sustainability of Jamaica and its people.
“Most Jamaicans would support shedding allegiance to the monarchy, a relic of our colonial past,” said Holness, acknowledging that some view this as symbolic. However, he asserted, “Symbols are of immense value in shaping national identity and pride.”
The Prime Minister's message, read publicly by the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC, Ms. Lishann Salmon, highlighted the complexity of constitutional reform and the need for a phased approach. Holness posed important questions about the apex court, suggesting that decisions about the Privy Council or the Caribbean Court of Justice require further consideration and consensus-building.
Holness concluded, “Let us unite and move forward while we continue to debate and build consensus on the next steps.” He emphasized the significance of national independence, urging collective reflection on Jamaica's history, journey, and future aspirations.
'One Love to the World'
Referencing this year’s independence theme, “One Love to the World,” Pastor Brown in his sermon urged Jamaicans to demonstrate love for one another in practical and tangible ways before extending that love globally. He stressed that Jamaica is more than its famous beaches, reggae music, and world-class athletes; it is a nation of character and compassion.
The service also included the presentation of the Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV Award to three individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Jamaican community: Mrs. Carmen Edwards, Ms. Doreen Thompson, and Mr. Larry Sindass, founder and executive producer of CaribNation TV. Additionally, the Friends of Jamaica Award went to Performing Artists Under the Lord (P.A.U.L.) for their dedication to the Jamaican church service in Washington, DC, for over thirty years.
Proceeds from the collection taken up at the service will be donated to the Black River Infirmary in St. Elizabeth parish, which suffered severe damage from Hurricane Beryl. This gesture exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity and generosity within the Jamaican diaspora.
The service was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, and Professor Emeritus of Stanford University, Dr. Donald Harris, father of US Vice President Kamala Harris.
It was moderated by Rev. Dr. Bertram Melbourne, dean of theology at Howard University, with assistance from Rev. Heron Henry, communications and media manager for Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention, and Bishop Stanley Murray, Pastor of the Baltimore United Church of God.
Read: Jamaica prepares drafting instructions for Republic Transition bill
