(CMR) Today Jamaicans across the world, including those in the Cayman Islands, are celebrating the country's 60th year of independence. Independence Day celebrations are being held under the theme, “Re-igniting a Nation for Greatness.”
Several events, including the Grand Gala at the National Stadium, are expected in Jamaica today. The Jamaican Diaspora is also scheduled to stage several events throughout Canada, the US, and England.
“While we cannot allow the current global crises of a pandemic, war, and inflation to dampen our mood, the government is mindful of the hardships our people are experiencing; therefore, our celebrations must give hope, be meaningful, and uplifting,” Prime Minister Andrew Holness said in his Independence Day Message.
After more than 300 hundred years of British colonial rule, Jamaica gained independence on August 6, 1962. An Independence celebration committee was commissioned to plan and organize special activities to celebrate the newly independent Jamaica. Several events were organized to celebrate the jubilation spanning from July 30 to August 12, 1962.
The National Float Parade and Flag raising ceremony were two of the most significant activities. On Sunday, August 5, 1962, at 11:59 pm, the National Stadium went dark for one minute with only the flag staff highlighted. The Union Jack (British Flag) was lowered, symbolizing the end of the British rule over Jamaica and Jamaica's new flag of colors black green and gold was hoisted to the sound of jubilant cheers and fireworks, signaling the birth of a new nation.
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