Encouraging a showcasing of their culture, heritage, and unique contributions globally, under the theme of ‘Jamaica 62: One Love…To the World’, millions took part in celebrations in towns, cities and countries throughout, as natives in the Caribbean country, and those in its wider Diaspora celebrated 62 years of its independence.
And, as prayers and praise were the order of the day in Centenary Square, in Birmingham, the UKs second city hosted its own unique celebrations as old, young and very young were on hand to mark the quite auspicious occasion. Led by Dr. Beverly Lindsay, O.D., O.B.E., chair of the Association of Jamaican Nationals (Birmingham) UK, distinguished figures - local, national and international – plus Armed Forces personnel, which include retired RAF Engineer, Warrant Officer Donald Campbel, the founder of The Forgotten Generations, and members of the West Midlands Black and Asian Police Association - were on hand to be part of a special flag raising ceremony, and to highlight the depth of just how far Jamaicans, in particular, Black people and people from an Ethnic background, in general, have come since, specifically, the very first mass influx of Caribbean people who arrived on the HMT Empire Windrush, in 1948.
On the other side of the generational spectrum, Kidz Come First, the organisation who provide a variety of outstanding childcare services, made their presence felt as they enjoyed themselves, and learned so much, during the day. “We are a proud, powerful nation,” Dr. Beverly said, “with a rich culture and powerful tolerance.
“Unity is in our DNA,” she emphasised, before introducing Lord Mayor Ken Wood to the fore for his contribution to the day. “In Birmingham, the Jamaican community is vibrant and very much part of Birmingham’s community at large.
“And the city is far, far better for it,” he added, with great pride! As Bishop Dr. Desmond Jaddoo MBE, then led with a minute’s silence, for the dearly departed, and those to remember, before Bishop Melvin Brooks and Bishop Deverton Douglas thanked and prayed, with reflection the order here.
Then, it was, as Dr. Lindsay said, it was time for the most important part of the day – the raising of the Jamaican flag, in the centre of Birmingham, which was accompanied by a rendition of ‘Kingston Town’, by multi award winning female saxophonist, Millicent Stephenson. How poignant that was, as the beautiful ‘Island in the Sun’ was remembered by all, especially as the national anthem, ‘Jamaica Land We Love’, would bring the proceedings to the most patriotic of closures.
Happy 62nd Jamaica!
