Did J’ca snub The Queen?
Dear Editor,
Regardless of how we feel about the British royals, The Queen is Jamaica’s head of State. As Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her Platinum Jubilee with 70 years on the throne, I’m wondering if I missed the well wishes to The Queen from Jamaican leaders who, like it or not, still serve her.
The UK just concluded a spectacular four-day-long weekend of celebrations. This came with the pomp and pageantry which the Brits are well known for. World leaders have issued statements of congratulation and well wishes, and many foreign dignitaries attended some events. The Governor General Sir Patrick Allen and his wife apparently attended with no announcement or fanfare about their attendance.
The Queen is head of the Commonwealth of Nations of which Jamaica is a member. Jamaica is hoping to elect its first Secretary General of the Commonwealth later this month and if successful will become part of the leadership of this organisation for which The Queen is the ceremonial head.
I’ve not heard of any official statements from Jamaican leaders, the office of the governor general, or Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade. I perused social media pages and found no acknowledgement or press release.
Britain pulled out all the stops with colourful festivities and parades, including the Trooping of the Colour, Royal Air Force fly-past, a service of thanksgiving, and a star-studded concert outside Buckingham Palace, the official residence of The Queen. There were other public events and community activities marking the milestone, which saw people travelling from around the globe to partake and crowd the streets. The event marked a major milestone in the history of the UK.
The Queen, at 96 years old, is a symbol of character, duty, and service. And though some may argue that the monarchy achieved its wealth and power unapologetically through colonialism, with questions about the traditions and relevance in a modern world, The Queen remains the official head of State of Jamaica and served Jamaica for 60 years post Independence and 10 years prior. Was it too much to acknowledge the long service with an official statement of well wishes?
We might be “moving on” from the monarchy, but let’s not forget good taste and diplomacy in the process.
P Chin
chin_p@yahoo.com
