‘Jamaica 62: One Love… To The World’

Jamaica’s outstanding achievements over the past 62 years, since attaining political independence from Great Britain on August 6, 1962, remain a source of pride for many citizens at home and abroad.

The theme for this year’s celebrations – ‘Jamaica 62: One Love… To the World’ –  has resonated deeply with many Jamaicans, reflecting their pride in the nation’s contributions on the global stage in several areas, notably sports and culture, underpinned by an enduring spirit of unity and love.

Here are some perspectives from several persons sharing their sentiments on the theme for this grand occasion:

Triskal Willacy, Administrative Assistant:

“When I hear the theme, ‘One Love, To the World’… ,two great men from our nation basically said these words. Bob Marley said, ‘One Love’, and we know Usain Bolt might not [have said] it, but his actions depicted ‘to the world’. ‘One Love’, for me, is a call to unite. It’s an action, especially in a time like this, where we see what is happening in our nation. So, for the theme to say, ‘one love’, it’s a call for change. It’s a call for us to be unified… a sense of togetherness, and we are moving out of the walls or corners of Jamaica [and] we are spreading it across the world. I think this theme is appropriate [and]  fitting for Jamaica 62. This theme will be impactful. One Love, to the World… spread love, not just in your homes or [with] your families, but to everyone that you come in contact with… share love to the world.”

Anisheka Crosdale, Secretary:

“62? Yes, Jamaica girl!  For me I think, as a Jamaican, every year of Independence is a milestone. Our ancestors fought hard for this moment, and so I am enjoying it. I cannot imagine [us] not being an independent nation. It’s always one love with Jamaicans, always one love to the world. I cannot wait to celebrate with my fellow Jamaicans at this year’s Grand Gala.”

Kurt Lewis, Music Producer:

“Jamaica celebrating 62 years of Independence and the theme ‘One Love… To the World’ is a good thing. I feel good about that because we have definitely imprinted our culture on the international scene – our music, how we live every day, our food, sports… different things. Jamaica has definitely done well in the last 62 years where that is concerned. So ‘One Love… To the World’.”

Dr. Marcia Graham, Medical Practitioner:

“At a glance, my first thoughts are that Jamaica is united in love, although we are people from all walks of life. Though small in size, we are a formidable force on the world scene, shining brightly and sharing that love with the world.”