Jamaicans urged to reflect on Marcus Garvey’s teachings on nation-building
ST ANN, Jamaica – Jamaicans are being encouraged to reflect on the teachings of Jamaica’s first National Hero, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, which continue to resonate deeply with the principles of nation-building.
The call was made by Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and Youth, Marsha Smith during Thursday’s civic ceremony organised by the St Ann Municipal Corporation’s Civic Affairs and Community Relations Committee at Lawrence Park in St Ann’s Bay to commemorate the 136th anniversary of Garvey’s birth.
The event was held under the theme ‘Garvey’s Teachings Still a Pillar of Nation-Building’.
Smith encouraged Jamaicans to use Garvey’s teachings as stepping stones for self-improvement, re-examining goals and forging new paths forward as one people.
She noted that in endorsing Garvey’s philosophy, Jamaicans are embracing the responsibility and opportunity to contribute to the country’s ongoing development, just as he envisioned.
“So today, let us not solely go through the motions of remembrance, but let us see today as an opportunity for self-evaluation and accounting,” Smith stated.
“This self-evaluation and accounting allow us to live our lives with renewed commitment and to take advantage of every opportunity, and where there is no opportunity, we make it for ourselves,” she added.
Mayor of St Ann’s Bay, councillor Sydney Stewart, acknowledged the influential leader as one of the greatest philosophers globally, underlining his global significance and contributions.
He also highlighted the debt of gratitude owed to Marcus Garvey by St Ann, the National Hero’s birthplace.
Councillor Stewart maintained that it was not only about honouring and celebrating Garvey, and urged Jamaicans to also delve into his enduring work and journey that encompassed Jamaica and the world beyond.
“So each August, on the 17th, we gather to celebrate and take great pleasure in honouring Marcus Garvey. I say this on behalf of all the citizens of St Ann,” the mayor said.
The ceremony, which was also used to commemorate the 59th year of Marcus Garvey’s declaration as a National Hero, saw the laying of floral tributes in his honour as well as a marching parade by the Jamaica Constabulary Force and other uniformed groups.
– JIS
