THE EDITOR, Sir:
COULDN'T WE have waited for another week? Why are we holding the election in the middle of Heritage Week? A week that holds significance for many of us who reflect on, and celebrate Jamaica's history and heritage. It is perhaps the only time in the year that our young people for example, are given an opportunity to participate in Heritage Week activities.
Knowing Jamaicans and the media, the primary focus will be on elections until October 16, and it will take a few days for everyone to calm down and move on following the great event. Even after the fact, the remaining days for the observance of Heritage Week will be obliterated!
Mr Patterson, I know in the larger scheme of things, my concern is a "small" issue, even inconsequential, but I think that as a nation we need to show some respect for the "small" things that make us patriotic. Heritage Week is one of the few observances in this country, which have any significant and long-standing effect on our people, in particular our young people.
Ok, so you made a big issue of Emancipation and Independence, and you opened Emancipation Park, and held "feel good" events for the period. Does this make it right to rob the significance of the week from those of us who look forward to it? Heritage Week is my "feel good" event, Mr. Patterson! I do not appreciate the "feel bad" element that elections in Jamaica will bring to mar the significance of this observance.
I am etc.,
PATRICIA FRANCIS
Newlin Street
Ocho Rios
St. Ann
