Nicholson Highlights Contributions of Jamaicans to Canada’s Development

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. A.J. Nicholson, says Jamaicans who migrated to Canada, have made significant contributions to the country’s development through their selflessness, dedication and hard work in their respective communities.

"I am convinced that the greatest contribution that Jamaica has made to Canada has been through those who have lived and served here as a mighty force,” the Minister said, while addressing members of theChurch of the Nativity, in Toronto, Canada, during an Independence Church Service, held on August 12.

The church service, which was held in recognition of Jamaica’s Jubilee celebrations, was attended by members of the Jamaican Diaspora, headed by High Commissioner to Canada, Her Excellency Sheila Sealy Monteith and Consul General to Toronto, Mr. Seth George Ramocan.

Mr. Nicholson said that even as Jamaicans celebrate their 50th year of Independence from British rule, Jamaica also recognises the 50th anniversary of the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between Jamaica and Canada, which remains strong today.

In the meantime, the Minister told the congregation that strong religious principles have helped Jamaica and Jamaicans overcome a number of hardships over the years.

He pointed out that the right to freedom of religious expression is enshrined in the Jamaican Constitution, noting that this freedom is alive and well throughout the country.

"As a country, throughout the years, we have not been shy about our adherence to religious practices and beliefs.  In the expression of our motto, ‘Out Of Many One People’, we proudly acknowledge the many protestant churches that exist alongside the Jewish synagogue and the Muslim mosque,” he stated. 

"It is familiar territory for us to hold ecumenical services for every event of national significance. Our education system maintains that close connection to religious observances, which have been abandoned in some other countries in their bid to separate Church and State,” the Minister added.

He said that as Jamaicans celebrate their Jubilee Year, they must also remember the contributions of religious stalwarts, such William Wilberforce and William Knibb.

"Our history shows that the battle against slavery was won by the pen and prayers of individuals such as William Wilberforce and William Knibb. Our National Heroes, Sam 'Daddy' Sharpe and Paul Bogle, preacher and deacon respectively,are examples of the belief system that characterises our people," the Minister said.