For 63 years, the Jamaican National flag has been a symbol of pride, hope and resilience, for Jamaicans themselves as well as people all over the world. It became the island’s greatest national symbol on August 6,1962, when Jamaicans at home and abroad celebrated independence from Great Britain.
Being one of the few flags in the world that does not have red, white or blue in it, the flag of Jamaica always stands tall as it tells the story of the Jamaican people – my people.
Jamaica has been through many adversities in the past, whether it be socially, economically, politically or any other sector that affects societal affairs.
In recent weeks, our country has been through Hurricane Melissa. This was a category five hurricane that devastated much of our island especially in western parishes. Many schools, churches, businesses and homes were affected or destroyed, yet the Jamaican spirit remains strong as our people seek to rebuild again with hope.
All over the world, people have been chipping in as well to help with Jamaica’s rebuilding process, The non-profit organization that I’m a part of here in Connecticut, BlessBackJamdown Missions, Inc, and various churches and other social clubs have all banded together to assist with the recovery and rebuilding efforts of our nation.
It serves as a reminder that Jamaica, my homeland, is well loved. As we have poured out our talents and gifts to the world over the years, we are certainly feeling and seeing the love reciprocated. The unity we see in the world in response to Jamaica’s need for help at this time, serves as a reminder of what our national flag symbolizes.
The color black in our flag symbolizes the strength and creativity of our people, green represents the hope that the Jamaican people have as well as the rich agricultural resources of our land. Gold — gold represents the natural beauty of the Caribbean sun and the wealth of our nation. In my eyes, the colors of our flag do not only carry deep symbolic meaning to Jamaican nationals, but it is certainly an inspiration to anyone who strives to become all that God created them to be, even if everything may not be perfect in their lives. They can overcome whatever the challenge is if they only put their minds to it with God’s help.
Our Jamaican flag will always be a source of hope as it serves as a reminder that we can bounce back and rebuild even amid the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa. Together, we’ll build back stronger. Out of many, we are one!
Rene Lambert lives in Bloomfield.