PRIME MINISTER P.J. Patterson is urging Jamaicans to unite and work together, despite their differences, to build a peaceful and prosperous country.
In his Emancipation Day message, he encouraged the nation to use the past to help the country forge a brighter future.
"Let us use our history as a focal point of departure on the road to self-development," he stated in his message to the nation.
Also, he pointed out that this Emancipation anniversary, which is being dedicated to the Haitian Bicentenary, was a fitting tribute to the country's liberators who helped Haiti to gain its freedom, thereby becoming the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to achieve this right.
Mr. Patterson called on the country to be inspired by the struggles the ancestors endured as the country goes through troubled times.
RECOGNITION AND APPRECIATION
"Let us, on this Emancipation Day, give full recognition and appreciation for the freedom which they brought us through their strengths and fortitude. Let us work together to build a society worthy of their legacy. Let us not be discouraged, however difficult things may seem at times," his message stated.
Sir Howard Cooke, Governor-General, expressed similar sentiments in his Emancipation Day message, noting that it was admirable to see the strides that Jamaica had made since gaining emancipation.
"Indeed, it is uplifting to know that whereas once we were dispossessed, marginalised and suffered every indignity because of our resilience, we were able to survive and daily grow stronger and become inheritors of wisdom and skills which will eventually make us mighty and strong," he said.
Sir Howard said Jamaica should not take current achievements for granted as the country is a master of its own destiny and hence should seek to take control of its progress.
Several of the island's leaders attended the National Independence Thanksgiving Church Service at the Boulevard Baptist Church, Washington Boulevard, Kingston 20. The theme of this year's celebration is 'Reflecting on the Past Taking Charge of the Future'.
