THE EDITOR, Sir:
IN RESPONSE to M. Whittaker in Thursday's Gleaner and any who are like-minded: After reading your letter, I am convinced that the truly patriotic Jamaicans are those earnestly fighting for a better life in and for Jamaica. The non-resident Jamaicans have, over the last 50 years, done more to build Jamaica, than any single entity or group.
However, you seem to think that they have no rights whatsoever. Jamaica receives slightly below US$1 billion in remittances every year, which makes it second in remittance income worldwide. You have no concept of economics, if you are arguing that this does not help the Jamaican Government and that this is not a factor in building the country.
Your question: Whom would they vote for? Non-residents are fully informed on the issues, probably even more so, than those who are "too close to the trees to see the forest." Being away from Jamaica does not remove our hearts or our responsibilities. Everyone has a duty in life to contribute to his or her community, and we as non-residents are fortunate enough to have the opportunity and wherewithal to continue contributing to our native land, Jamaica, thereby making it a better place. You are stating that you deem us unworthy of voting, because you think Jamaican citizens must feel "what the people are feeling in the way of crime, economic situations etc.," in order to know what is best for Jamaica.
Jamaicans and Jamaica would have more to gain working together, than to continue tearing each other apart. We need to put our energy into making sure that the person(s) we elect have a demonstrated and measurable love for our people and the country. And not just at election time.
I am etc.,
LORNA VINES
lornavines@yahoo.com
Washington DC
Via Go-Jamaica
