Consulate General Of Jamaica, New York, Independence Message 2008

It is with great pleasure and an enormous sense of pride that I extend greetings and best wishes to you my fellow Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica throughout the Diaspora, on the occasion of the 46th Anniversary of Independence of our beloved island nation of Jamaica.  

Even as we are scattered far and wide, we continue to hold fast to the spirit of perseverance that has fueled our quest for prosperity despite the many challenges we face.  

In our individual and collective pursuit of social and economic development, we have excelled in all spheres of human endeavour. Our popular culture, entrepreneurial spirit, achievement in academia and sports, among other areas, continue to be the hallmark of our people and have branded our culture throughout developed and emerging nations.

Indeed, there is much to be thankful for. We will continue to give thanks even as we press onward.

Let us always strive to pass on our rich heritage, culture and traditional moral values to our children so that they may come into their true identity in the Diaspora and in our homeland.

As we pause to reflect on our journey over these past 46 years, I take this special opportunity to express my profound sense of gratitude to the many Jamaicans in the Diaspora, who have given and continue to give back to our homeland—making country and the needs of others a priority.

We join hands and hearts during these Independence celebrations in the hope of a new and dynamic partnership for the betterment of Jamaicans everywhere.

One Love. One Family!

Geneive Brown Metzger (Mrs.)
Consul General