By Rasbert Turner, Gleaner WriterSPANISH TOWN:
THE ST. Catherine Civic Committee yesterday observed Jamaica's 41st Independence anniversary with a civic ceremony at Emancipation Square, Spanish Town.
Spanish Town's Mayor, Dr. Raymoth Notice, the main speaker, highlighted the low turnout as an example of the lack of civic pride on the part of the citizens. He said that they needed to be made aware of the importance of heritage and the meaning of emancipation.
Change was necessary, he said, "But do we have the courage to do so? Even our oldest and strongest people in politics are overwhelmed by a tidal wave of hostile and escapist politics."
The Rev. Sophia Azan, Custos of St. Catherine, brought greetings on behalf of the Governor-General.
The low turnout at the annual event in the historical square seems to be worsening each year, suggesting that the civic committee needs to become more proactive in getting the support of civic-minded individuals in the parish.
SPECIAL AWARD
During the brief ceremony, a special award for excellence was given to Marlene Pusey Reid, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's cultural organiser for St. Catherine. She will soon take up duties in Region 2, comprising St. Mary, St. Ann and Portland, where she will be the regional manager.
Spanish Town was the site of the signing of the proclamation signalling the end of slavery in the West Indies.
