Persons Encouraged to Give Thanks for Jamaica’s Abundant Resources

Jamaicans are being encouraged to appreciate and give thanks for the abundance of the nation’s rich resources.

This call comes from Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister, Hon. Olivia Grange, who notes that Jamaica has been blessed with a vibrant democracy, natural resources, “and our greatest asset – people.”

“We have proven to the world that we are a nation with talent…a nation that has what it takes to succeed…and we are succeeding,” she stated.

The Minister was speaking during Sunday’s (July 31) National Emancipation and Independence Thanksgiving Service at the Pentecostal Gospel Tabernacle on Windward Road in Kingston.

Ms. Grange said the theme for this year’s celebrations – ‘Let’s Get Together and Feel Alright’ – signaled the focus being placed on promoting unity and togetherness and “putting our hands and hearts together as we all continue to build Jamaica.”

She said the theme also encouraged Jamaicans to celebrate and appreciate “who we are and our accomplishments.”

Ms. Grange reiterated that a plethora of activities and events marking the celebrations will highlight the week July 31 and August 6.

“Every community, corner, street, lane, nook and cranny of the island, and of course those in the Diaspora, are expected to come alive and celebrate together as proud Jamaicans,” she said.

The Minister reminded the congregation that the focal points of the national celebrations will be the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, on Hope Road in Kingston, which has been transformed into an ‘Independence Village’, and the National Stadium that will host the Grand Gala on Independence Day, Saturday, August 6.

Based on the extent of the activities, Ms. Grange commended the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) and its partners and volunteers for collaborating to organize these.