Western Jamaica Well Covered for Independence Celebrations

Western Regional Manager of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), Natalie Morris, says residents of the region are in for a treat during the 2016 Emancipation-Independence celebrations.

Speaking at a JIS ‘Think Tank’ in Montego Bay on July 28, Ms. Morris said the events will be taken to areas of  Western Jamaica  that have never experienced celebrations of this magnitude.

“Every parish (in Western Jamaica) will be hosting a ‘Big Stage’ final before the end of July. The ‘Big Stage’ is a competition that is aimed at bringing forth talented persons – DJs, Sing-Jays and others. The finals are going to be really big,” she said.

Ms. Morris pointed out that Emancipation-Independence church services will take place in all the parishes of the region for both Sabbath keepers and for those who worship on Sundays.

Other events include Emancipation vigils, which begin in the parish capitals on Sunday, July 31 and end on the morning of Monday, August 1.

Miss Morris said these vigils feature traditional Jamaican rituals, gospel music, folk music and traditional foods and games.

She pointed out that the Festival Bandwagon, which started last year will continue across the parishes, culminating in the parish capitals.

Miss Morris said the concerts will be taken into 16 or 20 communities that are not usually touched by the activities for Independence.

She noted that they begin on August 2 in Westmoreland, then in Hanover on August 3; in St. James on August 4; and on August 5 will be taken to Trelawny.

Independence Day, August 6, will see flag-raising and civic ceremonies taking place in the parishes, with special recognition being given to persons who have served well.

Emancipation-Independence 2016 celebrations are being held under the theme ‘Let’s Get Together and Feel Alright’.