Why do we celebrate Black History month in Jamaica?

Why do we celebrate Black History month in Jamaica? || Answered By Kadian Clarke, Associate Writer

Black History Month is observed annually in Jamaica in the month of February. Many of us can recall performing cultural activities in school during this time.

But do we really know why we celebrate Black History Month in Jamaica?

Let’s talk…

Black History Month is a time when the country reflects on those who fought for the freedom and privileges of the nation including our National heroes and heroin.

We also reflect on persons like Oneil "Collie Smith" Gorden Smith from Denham Town, who, as a teenage boy, was great in sports at school, representing both Jamaica and the West Indies cricket team before he passed away.

We also celebrate the contribution of those who directly impacted the country in a signficant way, breaking many cultural and political borders in the process. This includes the great reggae artist Bob Marley, as well as others like Jimmy Cliff who have contributed to the country in a profound way by means of inspirational reggae music.

Then, there is the one-of-a-kind, Louise Bennett-Coverly, aka Miss Lou, who loved and was proud of her Jamaican heritage to death. Ms Lou was a poet, writer, folklorist, actress and an educator.

Time won't allow me, but I'll quickly mention other unsung heroes of this great nation which includes John Brown Russwurm, Dr. Harold Moody, Mary Seacole, Robert Sutherland, Aurthur Wint and maaany others who allowed our little third world country to stand out among many great countries considered to be first and second world.

Does all Jamaican celebrate Black History Month?

With the effort made to highlight and reflect on the contribution of those legends, there are many who does not believe in the current idea and believe that the country needs to find other ways to educate the nation on Black History.

In addition, others have the view that when Black History month comes around, too much focus is placed on black legends from other countries.

And lastly, there are others who believe that as important as black history month is to Jamaica, it serves a greater purpose for black people living in countries away from their homeland where they may be of the minority.

The debate continues...

So what's YOUR view on Black History month in Jamaica?

Share with us in the comments section below.



References:

• http://www.chat-bout.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4700
  
• http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/columns/Let-s-look-again-at-the-meaning-of-Black-History-Month_92567
  
• http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110213/cleisure/cleisure3.html
  

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