Jamaica 58

Jamaica has come a far way. Our history has been one of struggles yet we have overcome. Fifty eight years ago Jamaica gained political independence from England. Since independence the island of Jamaica, referred to as Xaymaca by the original inhabitants the Arawaks Indians has distinguished herself as a cultural powerhouse. Jamaica’s position on the world stage is well known. The Jamaican Proverb, “we lickle but tallawah” captures the essence of who we are as Jamaicans. Jamaica is known on every continent, in every culture and language.  Jamaica continues to be a leader among the Caribbean region. The island continues to break records and rewrite the history books in cultural spheres such as culinary arts, dance, music and athletics.  Jamaica's youthful population has no recollection of what life was under colonial rule.  The independence journey has been bitter sweet for most Jamaicans. Perhaps older Jamaicans continue to reminisce and are of the belief that Jamaica was in a better place as a British colony.  This better place is clearly not shared by the youthful populace who were born after August 6, 1962.  The concept of independence means different things to different people.  In some regards independence is a fluid concept and perhaps personal.  We tend to speak of independence in terms of political freedom; rarely do we tie economic freedom to this political freedom we have been enjoying since 1962. With political independence Jamaica to a large extent is responsible for her own affairs. Interestingly, Jamaica is still a Constitutional Monarchy and as such the Queen of England is the Head of State. The Prime Minister is head of the government. The Queen is represented in Jamaica by the Governor General whose official residence is at Kings House.  Each year around the time of Independence there is a robust debate regarding whether Jamaica should replace the Queen and become a Republic. There is precedence in the Caribbean for this move to a Republic. Our neighbours Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago are both republics and have a President as their head of State.  The conversation appears to be the domain of academia since the average Jamaican is more concerned with bread and butter issues than whether a Monarch or a President is head of State. We are still searching for economic independence.  Jamaica 58 will be most memorable given the novel coronavirus which has plunged the entire planet in a state of uncertainty.  This year will be the first time in memory that a Grand Gala will not be held. It is also the first time that Jamaicans both at home and in the Diaspora voted in the selection for the festival and gospel songs. What is a celebration without fireworks? The Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports announced there will be a fireworks show lasting 5 minutes at the virtual Independence Spectacular. It has become customary for thousands of Jamaicans to journey to the National Stadium to see the various marching bands and cultural groups showcasing the best of Jamaica’s cultural offerings. One of the highlights of Grand Gala is the performance of the Festival Song. The winning song this year is “I Am A Jamaican” performed by Buju Banton.  The song has resonated with many Jamaicans as it speaks to the resilience and hardworking nature of Jamaicans. This year there will be a virtual grand gala concert beginning at 8 pm until midnight. A number of well known artistes will be performing. Many Jamaicans both at home and abroad will be tuning to the various social media and traditional media to enjoy the best of Jamaica.  
Traditional Dances
Jamaican traditional dances fall into three categories: African derived, European and Creole, that is, a mixture of both types.  The African originated dances  such as Kumina, Myal and Pocomania, are mainly religious dances integral to worship ceremonies. These performances venture into the realm of the spiritual, and heighten their readiness for spirit possession. Jamaica is indebted largely to the Maroons for the preservation of these aspects of our African Heritage. European derived dances such as Etu, Quadrille and Maypole were originally of religious significance, but are now largely social. These usually accompany work songs and ring games and have kept their popularity throughout the years.  The Creole dances that were created in Jamaica tend to borrow elements from both European and African cultures, for example, Johnkannu/Jonkonnu - the oldest and most popular, Bruckin's, Pocomania and Revival. There are some in the society who view revivalists as lesser than.  Discrimination is alive and well even among the masses who are of African descent.  
Traditional Dress
The traditional dress is made out of red and white cotton plaid, maroon and white plaid, or madras.  It has become commonplace to see Jamaicans of every social class adorn in their bandana fabric to social functions during Emancipation and Independence celebrations.  It’s always a pleasure to see students doing the Maypole dance in their bandana outfits.  School children usually wear their bandana fabric to Jamaica Day. Adults also wear their bandana fabric during Independence.  
Traditional Food

Run-dun is a traditional Jamaican fish stew generally made with garlic, onions, tomatoes, scotch bonnet peppers, spices and large chunks of fish, mostly mackerel but sometimes cod or even smoked mackerel, all slow-cooked in coconut milk. The dish is traditionally served with dumplings and boiled green bananas and is eaten for any meal. The dish gets its name because it's slow-cooked until it has a thick creamy consistency and the fish is falling apart or 'run down'. Given the oily fish that is typically used, the flavour is milder than you might think. The official national dish of Jamaica is Ackee and Saltfish.  Ackee is a fruit grown in all 14 parishes in Jamaica. The unopened ackee is poisonous so one has to be careful.  A Jamaican staple at breakfast, these fritters are made by coating soaked and dried saltfish in flour, adding in onion, garlic, and peppers, and then frying to perfection.  Grater Cake is a perennial favourite Jamaican dessert.  A dessert made of grated coconut and sugar and sometimes flavored with ginger. Coconut and sugar are boiled and spread onto a baking sheet to harden. Once hardened, it's cut into triangles or squares.  Jamaican blue draws originated from West Africa. This tasty Jamaican Blue Draws, also known as duckunu/duckunoo, or tie-a-leaf, is a delicious treat, made from cornmeal, sweet potato, green banana, freshly grated coconut, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, wrapped in green banana leaf and boiled for a moist and incredibly tasty pudding. Jamaica’s rich cultural history is second to none.  Independence Day is also important for Jamaicans living in the Diaspora. It is usually a time when Jamaicans living abroad return home to partake of the food and indulge in the festivities associated with our Independence.  Unfortunately, Independence Day is merely a day off from work for some Jamaicans. This is especially so since the teaching of history is not compulsory at the secondary level of the education system.  The appreciation of the struggles associated with independence journey is lost in the absence of some of our people not knowing their history.  2020 will be different as international travel and tourism have taken a huge hit. Many people are staying at home as this is one way to keep the virus in check. The uncertainty regarding people’s livelihood, back to school preparation and the rising cases of the coronavirus have taken front page.  However, despite these challenges Jamaicans will be celebrating Independence and rightly so.  As you celebrate please remember to observe the protocols to keep you and your loved ones safe. Happy 58 Jamaica!    

Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues.
waykam@yahoo.com

@WayneCamo

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