Ever since the first Africans were brought to Jamaica against their will, some 400-plus years ago, Jamaicans have embraced and maintained a migratory mind-set. Few of us see Jamaica as home, despite all the talk about loving this country. In fact, real love and longing for Jamaica are often only experienced once some have lived abroad for long periods of time. We often see and seek salvation elsewhere.
At the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and observing the extraordinary patriotism of the average Ukrainian citizen, I remember asking the question on social media, ‘How many Jamaicans are prepared to fight for Jamaica?’. I’m still waiting for one to say, ME!!!!!!
For 60-plus years of political independence, we have squandered so many opportunities to bring Jamaicans together. In fact, the only things that seem to be able to bring us close to that state are sports and culture, historically, two of the most under-funded sectors in our country. Sadly, to date, only three of our national leaders have understood the centrality of these to overall national development and identity — the Manleys and Seaga.
A recent poll conducted among students around the country should make us very concerned about our future. Of the students polled, 70% expressed a desire to leave Jamaica once they complete their education!
No country can survive and thrive if after investing billions of dollars in developing our human capital we just lose them to the rest of the world, while we struggle on the occasional remittances that flow in via Western Union.
As we approach our 63rd birthday as an independent nation, I thought I’d look back and highlight some of the good and enduring positives that we all can be proud of as Jamaicans. Needless to say, we have a long way to go. The many negative issues could detain us for long. However, this is not the time for that. As a country we have made some significant strides and can proudly stand head and shoulders above some of the so-called advanced nations in the world. Some of the notable achievements that come to mind are:
- National Health Fund (NHF) – Thousands of Jamaicans with common health issues can now get their prescriptions filled for free, not to mention, a host of other concessions.
- National Insurance Scheme (NIS) – Conceived and implemented in the 1960s, with updates through the years, this landmark social security net is the mainstay of so many retired Jamaicans. Providing a level of health insurance in addition to a small monthly pension among other benefits, NIS has proved that government CAN work for the people if we insist on it.
- National Housing Trust (NHT) – So many Jamaicans have benefited and continue to benefit from this extraordinary institution. Many other countries have studied and replicated this model as a critical part of their own shelter and housing development. And it has proven over the years that not all government agencies are slow and inefficient.
- Our Courts – Despite the limited resources in the justice system, our courts have proven to be largely independent of party-political influence over the years. This is a remarkable feat because our judges are appointed by politicians. This is a tremendous source of national pride.
- Labour and Employment laws – Since the 1970s there has been a revolution in this sector. The rights of workers have taken front seat in the numerous legislations passed in this period. So many of our labour related laws that we take for granted are still today regarded as revolutionary in countries like America!
- Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) – Established in 1996, this organization has proved invaluable in the range of community interventions it has undertaken across the country. Although a government agency, its operations have never been tainted with partisan interference. In fact, it’s precisely because of this that international agencies have always insisted on doing business through it rather than directly with central government. So many of the community projects we take for granted (schools, roads, water supplies, community centres, health facilities, police facilities, etc), are possible because of this incredible agency.
- HEART Trust – What a blessing to so many who were left behind under the formal education system. Many now boast skills that serve as their main career and income source.
- Social Development Commission (SDC) – This long-standing social community organization has been through many changes over the decades. It continues to be a vital life source in communities. Pity it suffers so greatly from lack of capacity and other resources.
- JCDC/Edna Manley College – These two great institutions rest at the core of so much of our cultural development in Jamaica. By consistently preparing our young artists for dissemination into the school system and showcasing their products at annual events, we are assured of continuity in the education and development of our rich culture.
- G.C. Foster College – Jamaica has ALWAYS excelled in the field of sports, particularly track events. We should, however, never ever underestimate the extraordinary contribution of the G.C. Foster College since its inception in 1980. A gift from the Government of Cuba in 1978, its purpose was to train teachers and coaches for the important task of physical education in Jamaica. The products of all this can be witnessed at Champs annually and wherever Jamaican sportsmen and women appear around the world.
As we (again) toy with the idea of republican status, let’s reshape the country so it benefits all its citizens, not just a few who are connected and privileged. We have a lot to be proud of. Every Jamaican must be allowed and encouraged to own a piece of this rock. It is only through ownership that we get commitment.
