Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to an letter published on Tuesday, July 23, 2013, entitled “Let’s change Ja’s name, flag and symbols” by Michael A Dingwall.

I am totally against Mr Dingwall’s suggestion. The country’s name, the flag and our national symbols speak a lot to who we are as a people. And after fifty (50) years of Independence, and withh all our accomplishments, why should we need to make such changes? How would these changes create more benefit to us?

There is really no need for us to change the name of our country for it already speaks volumes of the people that once lived here. The current name was derived from the Arawak’s Xaymaca; it still serves the purpose for which the initial name was given — the land of wood and water. Jamaica is a brand, a trademark. Jamaica is a name which, along with its symbols, speaks for itself. Jamaica is not just the name of our country, it highlights who we are; the good, the bad and the indifferent.

You also wrote about our national symbols and their inability to be “instantly associated with us”. You made mention of the Soviet’s hammer and sickle, the German’s swastika, the Israelis’ Star of David, the Indians’ spinning wheel and the Bajan’s three-pronged wheel. Remember, we are an “out of many one people” nation. And with that said, what symbol do you suggest we adopt? Jamaica does not need to place our symbol in the flag. I do not know about you, but I rather like our uniqueness.

The Jamaican flag is unique and it carries a powerful statement. Currently, the flag brings to mind memories of past achievements and it gives inspiration towards future success (JIS 2009). It is a global symbol, recognised far and wide on account of the many sacrifices made by our forefathers and by many other proud Jamaicans. Personally, the diagonal cross symbolises the sun shining within the heart of our prosperous land and within the hearts of numerous talented and ambitious people. We are proud people and honestly we do not need to change the black in the flag to be the dominant colour. The flag is honourable as is. Furthermore, black is not the only colour that speaks to who we are. Should we include those colours too? We are much more than the colour of our skin.

Mr Dingwall, I am not convinced that we should make such drastic steps as to change Ja’s name, flag and symbols. If it is just to give more honour to the initial inhabitants of the island or to be like other countries then it is not a fitting reason. Jamaica’s name, flag and symbols should remain as is.

Kerry-Ann Williams

Clarendon