The Jamaican High Commission commemorated 188 years of “Emancipendence” with a thanksgiving service at the Parish of the Assumption Roman Catholic Church in Maraval last Sunday, ahead of Jamaica’s Independence Day, which is celebrated annually on August 6.
Jamaica’s High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, Natalie Campbell-Rodriques, said the service celebrated three important milestones in the country’s history: the 188th anniversary of Emancipation, the 63rd anniversary of Independence and 63 years of diplomatic relations between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.
Campbell-Rodriques explained that the term “Emancipendence” combines the words Emancipation and Independence, reflecting the country’s twin celebrations of freedom from slavery and political independence.
“As Jamaicans, we give thanks to God for the strength and guidance that has taken our country from enslavement to the fulfilment of independence,” she said.
“Our forefathers brought us out of the darkness of slavery, sustained not by material wealth, but by an unyielding hope in the promise of freedom.”
She said Jamaica’s journey from Emancipation to Independence, achieved 124 years later, demonstrated the resilience and determination of its people.
Referring to this year’s national theme “United in Celebrating Resilience,” Campbell-Rodriques said it reflects the enduring strength of the Jamaican people.
She also highlighted the close relationship between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, describing it as one built on mutual respect, strong people-to-people ties and shared regional values.
Campbell-Rodriques thanked the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago for their continued goodwill and solidarity, including their support following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs, Randall Karim, represented Minister Sean Sobers at the service.
Karim said the occasion honoured the resilience of both nations’ ancestors while celebrating 63 years of diplomatic relations and reaffirming a commitment to continued regional cooperation and brotherhood.
In an Emancipation message, Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, urged Jamaicans to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of their ancestors and to celebrate the freedom, identity and nationhood that continue to shape the country’s future. He also praised the Jamaican diaspora for enhancing the country’s international reputation through its achievements across a wide range of fields.
