Dear Editor,

As Jamaica moves forward to becoming a republic, there must be the immediate abolition of English language and its partner English literature. Jamaican creole and all its variations must become the centrepiece of discourse in all official quarters.

English language and literature are major proponents of racism and oppression, representing the “dreadest” moments of colonialism. Let us be free of all things British.

We do not think, feel, or breathe in English language. Words like “transition” and “passing” do not explain the phenomenon of death as well as “Mi ah go tun duppy.”

If you feel sad and lonely, neither Beethoven nor Bach will rescue you. Only Robert Nesta Marley can “lively up” yourself and help you to “feel no pain”.

Simply boring, all these texts for students to struggle through with no connection whatsoever to their realities. Thus, we are a society that is disentangled. Our Parliament must have consistent dialogue in our own “madda tongue”, encapsulating all creole versions in the different parishes. That is what democracy is all about. Removing the shackles of a cruel past of slavery.

In the classroom, the language of the streets must resonate. The drum beat of the suffering, the sighs, the smiles. Thought and expression must not be stifled by euphemistic English language. An outdated model, which fails to tell it as it is. It is only in Jamaican creole that we understand even the
Bible.

Thus, a challenge to our regional examination body to remove English A and B. There are other letters in the alphabet. Improved examination results will occur if the current papers in English language are translated into the respective creoles and read to the candidates.

“Wi will be truly free when wi talk Jamaican. Den Louise Bennett an Marley can become national heroine and hero.”

UI Jem

jem.ul@yahoo.com