Clinton to bring 'common humanity' message to Jamaica

Gary Spaulding, Senior Gleaner Writer

Jamaica will next week join an impressive list of countries where former United States President William 'Bill' Clinton will present one of his inspirational public lectures.

Already, there are indications that Jamaicans are anticipating the moment that they can absorb the wisdom and legendary charm of the colourful yet conservative former president.

"The response is favourable, positive and it's good, and I expect that he will be well received here," declared event organiser, Suzie Berry.

Less than a year after his wife, Hillary, made a cameo appearance on local soil, Clinton, the US president between 1992 and 2000, will land in Kingston for one of what is generally described as his famous public presentations, on October 25.

The well-known Knutsford Boulevard in New Kingston flaunts The Jamaica Pegasus hotel, which will showcase the charismatic Clinton.

It will be the first time that a former president of the US will be visiting Jamaica in the capacity of a public lecturer, instead of pressing flesh and talking shop with high-profile politicians.

Other presidential visit

When another former president, Jimmy Carter, came to Jamaica in 1996, unofficially, it was to visit the ailing former prime minister of Jamaica, Michael Manley.

Carter seized the opportunity to stop by the Bustamante Hospital for Children, among other organisations.

Indeed, this time around, it will be no state visit - Clinton's target is the people of Jamaica who are keen to share his vision.

The magnetic politician-turned-world statesman will be attracting Jamaicans from far and near to hear his message embracing common humanity.

It is one topic that is dear to Clinton's heart and so he has felt compelled to share it with the world.

"He is an excellent speaker, one of the most sought-after across the world," declared Berry. "I think he has a lot to say, it is something different, it is good for Jamaica.

"I like to present the best; I present premium events and so I bring you the best," asserted Berry, who is known to promote major events across the globe.

Admission cost

The admission to hear Bill Clinton is a reasonable $13,000 per person, or approximately US$150.

Berry suggested to The Gleaner that there are indications that Clinton is keen on coming to Jamaica.

"He is looking forward to share a message with the Jamaican people."

Berry seems particularly impressed by Clinton's preparedness.

Even sections of corporate Jamaica have bought into the visit of one of the more popular US presidents in recent history.

Cocktails will be served at 7 p.m. and at 8:45 guests will be asked to be seated.

The doors will be closed at 8:55.

Clinton is scheduled to take the floor at 9 o'clock.

From president to philanthropist

Former US head of state's journey from the White House to the world

Bill Clinton has seen and done it all. Now, he is coming to Jamaica to share his wealth of knowledge.

As a private citizen, after almost a lifetime in politics - eight eventful years in the White House - the former United States president has much to share.

Clinton's messages and lectures emanate from the Clinton Global Initiative, a project of the Clinton Foundation that brings together a community of global leaders, university students and private citizens.

His objective is to identify and implement innovative solutions to the world's most pressing challenges, including poverty alleviation, climate change, global health and education.

Powered by knowledge, and energised by a need to impart, Clinton is driven to give.

Not surprisingly, Clinton also does some work as a lobbyist.

Negotiating skills

The former president, known for his enormous negotiating skills that kept the United States out of major conflicts during his tenure, was called on to assist in brokering the Dubai ports deal, even though it did not become a reality.

The Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI) is making a difference in the fight against climate change in practical, measurable and significant ways, by working with 40 of the world's largest cities to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

The CCI is also assisting partner cities to make energy-saving improvements to buildings, transit systems, lighting and waste management.

But that is not all. Of immense importance is the Clinton HIV/AIDS Initiative, which is helping to turn the tide on the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Clinton's team does this by working with governments and other partners to increase the availability of high-quality HIV/AIDS care and treatment for people in need, lower the cost of essential tests and treatments, and strengthen health systems in the developing world.

Bid to end childhood obesity

Then there is Clinton's other initiative, 'Alliance for a Healthier Generation'.

A partnership was forged between the Clinton Foundation and the American Heart Association, which is dedicated to ending the increase in childhood obesity and helping children and their families lead healthy, active lives.

The Clinton Economic Opportunity Initiative, dubbed CEO, is helping families and individuals keep more of the money they make by supporting state and city efforts to promote access to basic financial services.

CEO also matches inner-city entrepreneurs with successful business leaders to help them grow their businesses and flourish in an urban economy.

The former president also has in force The Clinton Hunter Development Initiative that is working in Rwanda and Malawi to launch projects that generate income, increase agricultural productivity and enable sustainable growth to alleviate poverty.

Clinton will be here on October 25 at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in the Corporate Area.

- G.S.

Clinton's objective

To identify and implement innovative solutions to the world's most pressing challenges, including poverty alleviation, climate change, global health and education.