THE EDITOR, Sir:JAMAICA IS without question one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Within this island paradise, certain Jamaicans believe that they occupy the country's best portion of land. Call this parish pride. I personally believe that parish pride is a healthy concept for all Jamaicans. But there can be too much of a good thing. Specifically when one's pride for their parish becomes elitist.
Since returning to live in Jamaica seven months ago, I've experienced some downright pathetic examples of parish discrimination. Just mentioning that I live in St. Mary has been known to bring out the snob in certain Kingston and Ocho Rios-based professionals. "What did the parish of St. Mary ever do to anyone?" I ask.
One of the worst cases of parish prejudice can be found in Jamaica's telephone directory. There is a particular hotel that is clearly located in Tower Isle, St. Mary, but due to marketing reasons, it's listed as an Ocho Rios property. James Bond Beach which sits in the heart of Oracabessa, St. Mary, has also received the Ocho Rios brand in the past. It seems the only brand St. Mary ever gets is the one of being the supposedly poorest parish in the country.
Over the years, I've had the privilege of travelling to eight of Jamaica's 14 parishes. During these travels I've noticed more similarities than differences. The haves and have-nots are both present in each parish. The construction of homes, churches and schools are uniform from town to town. And most importantly, patois is the single tongue that bonds all Jamaicans, whether man, woman or child.
I am, etc.,
DAVID DACOSTA
St. Mary
