Dear Editor,

On Sunday, September 9, 1957, a Day of National Mourning was declared by the Jamaican Government for the 250 or more people who died on September 1, 1957 in that terrible Kendal train crash.

From that day, or even before, has there ever been a Day of National Mourning in Jamaica?

In 1692 when Port Royal was destroyed by earthquake, was there a Day of National Mourning for the victims who died a watery death?

In 1907, when the city of Kingston was hit by another earthquake killing 800 to 1,000 people, was there a Day of Silence or a Day of National Lamentation for those who were crushed to death?

Furthermore, I believe we should have a Day of National Mourning for the thousands of people who have been slaughtered in crime and violence and domestic disputes. We already have more than 1,000 people dying annually by violence. The large number of people who have lost their lives to crime and violence over the past three decades is very frightening.

What’s more, we should also have a Day of National Mourning for the thousands of people who have perished in traffic accidents. Doing so is a mark of respect to our fallen brothers and sisters.

Other countries have done so, why can’t we do likewise. This should not only be done when there is mass murder or a massacre occurring in 24 hours.

Donald J McKoy

donaldmckoy2010@hotmailcom