This Sunday I went to church wearing a
get-up that was more colourful than usual. Today was dedicated to Jamaica, in
celebration of the country’s 51st year of independence, which would
fall on 6th August 2013. My Godmother who is Jamaican and also
attends my church gave a wonderful presentation on the history of Jamaica and
its developments. Today I learned that per square mile, Jamaica has the most
amount of churches than anywhere in the world.
It was refreshing to see the
majority of the congregation make an effort in dressing up in the colours of
the Jamaican flag, despite coming from a wide variety of backgrounds. As my
father’s family is from Jamaica and my mum’s Guyanese, I feel it’s important to
learn about various cultures as well as your own background to see how things have
changed over the years and how things will be in the future.
My church
welcomed Jamaica day to educate us, celebrate both our uniqueness and togetherness
as a congregation and instill in us that although we are many, we are one. Below I’ve included some interesting facts on
Jamaica. I also recommend taking some time to do some research on the history
of your country of origin, speak to elder family members to celebrate and be
proud of where you come from.
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| The Jamaican flag has 3 colours, green, black and gold. Black stands for hardships overcome and to be faced; Gold, for natural wealth and beauty of sunlight; and Green stands for hope and agricultural resources. |
Jamaican Saying: "Wanti wanti can't get it, getti getti no want it" Meaning: The grass is always greener on the other side.
Jamaica is the first Caribbean Country to gain Independence.
Apart from the United States, Jamaica has won the most world and Olympic medals.
Climate is year-round summer with no definite rainy season, although it usually rains most in May and October.
Jamaica is the first Caribbean country to gain independence. This was in 1962.
Blue Moons happen in Jamaica. Sapphire-coloured moons have been observed half a dozen times during the last 40 years.
Jamaica’s official motto is, “Out of Many, One People”
Jamaica is home to the fastest man on the planet - Usain Bolt.
Jamaica is number 5 on the list of countries with the most Miss World titles.
Jamaica's telephone system was so well developed its model was copied by AT&T
There are only two countries in the world - Jamaica and Libya - whose flags do not share any of the colours in the United States flag.
