DIASPORA | Jamaicans in Washington DC DMV to celebrate Emancipation, Independence

WASHINGTON, DC, JULY 23, 2024 - Jamaicans in the DMV area to include parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, Baltimore, and Washington DC are getting ready for a vibrant celebration of freedom and national pride to mark two momentous occasions this Sunday, July 28.

The air will be filled with jubilation as the community comes together to commemorate the 186th anniversary of Emancipation and Jamaica's 62nd year of independence from Britain in a special thanksgiving service.

This year's event promises to be a soul-stirring blend of spiritual reflection, cultural pride, and community recognition. The Sligo Seventh Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, will host this grand celebration starting at 10:45 a.m., transforming into a beacon of Jamaican heritage and achievement.

In a display of unity and collaboration, the service is the result of a joint effort between various Diaspora organizations, local Jamaican clergy, and the Jamaican Embassy in Washington. This cooperative spirit embodies the strength and resilience of the Jamaican community in the DMV area.

Attendees can look forward to an inspiring sermon by Pastor Everette Brown, president of the Jamaica Union of Seventh Day Adventists, sure to uplift and energize the congregation.

The service will be expertly guided by Rev. Dr. Bertram Melbourne, Professor and former Interim dean of the Howard University School of Divinity with assistance from religious leaders Rev. Heron Henry, communications and media manager for Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention and Bishop Stanley Murray,pastor of the Baltimore United Church of God.

Adding a touch of official recognition to the proceedings, Her Excellency Audrey Marks, Jamaica's Ambassador to the United States, will extend a warm welcome to all attendees while the Prime Minister’s message will be delivered by Deputy of Chief of Mission at the embassy of Jamaica, Ms. Lishann Salmon.

The celebration wouldn't be complete without music, and the service will feature soul-stirring performances by talented artists Yasmin McCoy, Lady Da Flame, and Tamara Simpson.

A highlight of the event will be a special performance by the combined choir, "Performing Artists Under the Lord (P.A.U.L.)," conducted by Mrs. Linda Gatling, bringing their harmonious blend of voices to this joyous occasion.

In recognition of outstanding contributions to the Jamaican community, three individuals will be honored with the prestigious Jamaica Diaspora 2024 DMV Award: Mrs. Carmen Edwards, Ms. Doreen Thompson, and Mr. Larry Sindass.

Their dedication and service exemplify the spirit of community that defines the Jamaican diaspora.

A special Friends of Jamaica Award will be presented to "Performing Artists Under the Lord (P.A.U.L.)," acknowledging their unwavering commitment to the annual church service for over three decades.

In a touching display of solidarity, proceeds from the collection will be donated to the Black River Infirmary, which suffered severe damage from Hurricane Beryl.

This gesture of support demonstrates the strong bonds that continue to connect Jamaicans abroad with their homeland.

As the DMV area's Jamaican community prepares to celebrate their heritage and independence, this event stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of freedom, unity, and cultural pride that defines the Jamaican people.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of this jubilant celebration of Jamaican history and achievement!

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