Jamaica Observes Taino Day

More than 800 students from across Jamaica left Seville Heritage Park in St. Ann with a deeper understanding of their Taíno roots, after immersing in Taíno Day 2026, held on May 5.

The event, held under the theme ‘Celebrating Jamaica’s Taíno Heritage’, aimed to strengthen cultural awareness among the young boys and girls in attendance.

Students from various schools across the country attended, including Mt. Alvernia High School, Anchovy High, St. Mary High, St. Andrew High, St. Elizabeth Technical High, Zion Hill Primary, and Jose Marti Technical High.

For many of them, the day marked their first real encounter with the people who called this island home long before Columbus ever set foot on its shores.

Grade seven student at the Mt. Alvernia High School in Montego Bay, St. James, Kenya Gardener, said the experience was both enjoyable and educational.

She encouraged others to take part in similar activities, while expressing gratitude to her teacher for making the visit possible.

“Most of the things that I got from today were how the Taínos lived in Jamaica, and I also learned from the posters around the area that Jamaica’s name to be Xaymaca. I also learned many different things, like the games the Taínos used to play, and how they contributed to some rule that is used today by world cup body,” she stated.

The students were not only exposed to historical facts, but were able to see, hear and interact with elements of Taíno life. They also experienced indigenous inspired music and dance, animal displays, folktales, Taíno story time and motivational speeches.

Student at the Zion Hill Primary School in St. Ann, Daeshanique Gordon, said the event helped her to better understand her culture and how to express it.

“I admire the cacique chiefs of the Taíno, otherwise we know them as kings and queens, and they were so good looking. Also, I learned that no matter your complexion, you’re beautiful,” she noted.

Her teacher, Ozzette McKoy, said the visit was as eye-opening for her as it was for her students.

Ms. McKoy admitted that some of what she heard was new to her as well and that the information she learned will sharpen how she teaches the subject going forward.

For acting head of the Humanities Department at Mt. Alvernia High School, René Malcolm, the visit formed part of a broader effort to help her students connect the past with the present.

“As a history teacher, it was important for our students to know where they are coming from to know exactly where we are going as a people and why is it that certain customs and practices that we have, we continue to have within our society,” Ms. Malcolm explained.

Organisers from the Jamaica National Heritage Trust pointed out that educating young Jamaicans about the island’s indigenous history is critical to preserving national identity.

Director of Estate Management and Business Development, Brendalyn Henry, told the students that understanding where Jamaica began is the foundation for understanding themselves, and their heritage.

“When you understand where Jamaica began, you understand yourself better, why it matters to protect our heritage, sites, artefacts, stories and traditions,” Ms. Henry outlined.

“As students, you are the next guardians of Jamaica’s history. Therefore, I challenge you today to learn more, ask questions and visit heritage sites when you can, and take pride in the story of the Taíno people and the story of Jamaica,” she added.

The event was supported by entities including the National Environment and Planning Agency, Tourism Product Development Company Limited, Hope Zoo and the National Gallery of Jamaica.