Jamaica Day Aimed At Promoting Patriotism, National Pride Among Youth

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, says the annual celebration of Jamaica Day is an opportunity to instil patriotism, national pride, and a sense of loyalty for country among the youth.

“We have to start at a very young age to instil in our children what it is to be a patriotic Jamaican and what it is to appreciate everything that is good about Jamaica,” she said.

The Minister was speaking with JIS News during her visit with students and staff of the Foursquare Basic School in Kingston on Friday (February 27).

Noting that ‘Brand Jamaica’ holds strong influence globally, she said it is critical that all young Jamaicans are made aware of the power behind the Jamaican culture and the importance of maintaining and strengthening the brand.

“Jamaica is at the centre of the world as a brand and it is important that we build on [the shoulders] of those who came before us. It is important that we continue the work that they started and pass it on to the next generation so that Jamaica will get stronger together,” she said.

Minister Grange pointed out this year’s theme, ‘Celebrating Jamaica: Championing Kindness, Courage and Community’, holds special significance in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.

“We were devastated by Hurricane Melissa. We are in the recovery stage, and we will build back stronger together. To see that our recovery is going at a faster pace than expected, it underscores the fact that we are a strong people, we are a determined people, and we are resilient,” she said.

Noting that Foursquare Basic School has been in existence for almost as long as Jamaica’s independence, Principal of the institution, Tanessia Davis, said that many leading figures in society have some association with the school.

“Foursquare Basic School, which is over 60 years old, has produced many influencers in Jamaica [and continues to] make an impact on children’s lives in Jamaica,” she said.

Schools across the island staged individual celebrations showcasing Jamaica’s culture and heritage.

Jamaica Day, held on the last Friday of February, underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage and identity.

It is designed to instil a sense of “Jamaicanness” in students and the wider society.