As we celebrate our 47th year of Independence, it is the time to reflect on where we have reached as a nation. We have so much of which to be proud and must be careful to maintain the tradition of excellence demonstrated by our people in every stratum of society and across every field of vocation.
Jamaicans are outstanding as a people. We have captured international acclaim through our indomitable spirit as we attain a level of success of which no other nation of our size can boast. The winning spirit of our people is evident in the remarkable performance of the likes of Usain Bolt who rocked the world at the 2008 Olympics, Winston ‘Burning Spear’ Rodney who copped the award for this year’s Best Reggae Album at the 2009 Grammy Awards.
Our culture and beauty are embraced worldwide. Despite the current tough economic challenges, Jamaica’s tourism product is at an all time high with an increase in tourist numbers.
Our Motto, “Out of Many, One People,” which is the theme of New York’s Independence 2009 celebration, speaks volume to who we are as a nation — one, even with our varied ethnicity and very importantly; one, even as we are scattered in every corner of the world. You, the people of the Jamaican Diaspora in the United States of America have proven our bond of unity as you continue to demonstrate your care and concern for your fellow Jamaicans here and at home in organizing medical missions, providing equipment and supplies for hospitals and schools in Jamaica and teaching the culture to young Jamaicans overseas.
Our challenges are many, but if we continue to build on the foundations which have been laid by our forefathers who fought for our emancipation and independence, we will prevail. I encourage you in the Diaspora to continue with your missions which play a great role in the development of our nation.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, for all that you do and will do for our homeland. May God richly bless you as we celebrate our proud nation.
Geneive Brown Metzger
Consul General
