Dear Editor,

Amidst all the ills that plague the land of wood and water, the rhetoric that cause angst, and the political diatribe that divides the nation, I must pause to wish all of Jamaica a Happy Heroes’ Day.

A country’s founding and a sense of pride and purpose must not be sacrificed on the altar of indifference, just because.

Having said that, I am equally aware that the legacy bequeathed to us by our heroes has been gravely mishandled. And there’s no one party, administration or leader to be blamed. All are guilty!

And, the current crop of bright minds have all but given up to pessimism, cynicism, fear, and acceptance of indifference.

But I know that there are individuals out there possessing that deep and and abiding faith in Jamaica. That group who truly believes that a change has to come and is willing to bring about that change. For of a truth, the country is crying out. No, bawling out for a change. A real substantive, life-altering change that no one party, administration or leader can bring about.

This change has to be revolutionary in scope where it changes the psyche, culture, and directional compass.

We’ll know the change when it comes. It will be identifiable when men and women call upon the steely grit and determination of Nanny and Sam Sharpe, who rested not night and day to fight off the British Red Coats. It will be seen when individuals having the courage to, step forward and, like Paul Bogle, ignore the elements, the threats of capture and death, and distance of journey. Evidence of the change will bring men out of the shadows having the moral compass and integrity like Garvey and George William Gordon to speak with fairness and truth appealing to the inner core of rational self-worth and responsibility. When that change arrives, patriots will step forward in boldness and bravery like Bustamante, baring their chests. And you’ll see statesmen displaying selflessness and decency life Father Manley, who gave it all expecting nothing in return.

If such a change is not realised, I hate to say it, Jamaica will be doomed for all times.

Shane Barnett

New Jersey, USA