Jamaicans mark Independence in Philly

Jamaicans residing in Philadelphia will celebrate Jamaica's 49th year of Independence at the Cheltenham Mall from August 5-6. The entire Cheltenham Mall will be decorated in Jamaican colours to commemorate this historic celebration which signifies the birth of a nation which has impacted on the world significantly.

In a release sent to The Sunday Gleaner Randolph Fisher, CEO, Black Music Promotions, said they were informed by the Cheltenham Township Office that a Jamaican Independence/cultural event of this kind, which combines an exposition as well as reggae and dancehall music, has never been held in the Pennsylvania county previously.

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), among other organisations from Jamaica, will be present, thus emphasising the importance of the event.

Fisher said: "We want to use the opportunity to reiterate how important and symbolic it is of Jamaica's Independence. Jamaica is known as a country of importance, and all its citizens will not abdicate their responsibility to reflect its true identity, as stated by our motto, Out Of Many, One People'."

Exposition

There will be an exposition, culinary arts, entertainment and music at the all-Jamaican event. Indigenous Jamaican products, like a handcart laden with only Jamaican sugar cane, coconuts, oranges, bananas and peanuts, among other items, contribute to creating an authentic Jamaican atmosphere.

There will also be films on the lives of the Hon Marcus Garvey, the Hon Robert 'Bob' Nesta Marley, the great achievements of Jamaican athletes, and the story of how Jamaica got its independence. Dominoes, hot patty eating, beer drinking and Ms Jamaica Philadelphia Independence Queen contests, as well as a song competition, round off the planned activities.

According to Fisher, it is a fun-filled day where people will be educated and entertained with Jamaican history and culture.

Jamaican artistes The Abyssinians, Michael Rose, Joshua and Delano are scheduled to perform at a celebration party on Saturday, August 6, at The Blockley, 38th and Chestnut St, Philadelphia.

"I wish to underscore that Jamaica continues to attach great importance to the world and our agenda of empowerment must be accomplished, particularly to eradicating poverty and creating development resources. To provide support in the areas of education, community social development, crime reduction, tourism, music and culture, among others, as well as the invaluable skills-training programmes," said Fisher.

Promoting culture

Black Music Promotions, he said, is committed to promoting Jamaica's history and culture "and only through constructive dialogue and collaboration we would continue to ensure that our motto, 'Out Of Many, One People', remains strong and is able to sustain the growth and development of the next generation".

The schedule of activities includes the raising of the Jamaica flag and the singing of the National Anthem. Confirmed speakers include the Hon Derrick Smith - Jamaica information attaché, who will deliver a speech on behalf of Jamaica's ambassador to USA, Hon Audrey Marks - and Hon Alston B. Meade, Jamaica's consul general to Philadelphia.

Radio West Indies, Philadelphia's No. 1 Internet reggae radio station, will broadcast live from the event on both days.