In a state of cultural chaos
published: Wednesday | June 8, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

Today more than ever, Jamaicans' self-awareness, our sense of pride, is being eroded due to exposure to foreign television, cable, tourism, music and merchandise etc. As a result, the island is in a state of cultural chaos and meltdown; our cultural systems are under threat not only by foreign influences but from lack of recognition by Jamaicans themselves.

So if you are a political leader, elected or aspiring, then I would suggest to you that you need to take bold and unpopular decisions. I recall the stand taken by Alexander Bustamante in 1938, pointing out that if the current leaders believe in something, they must be prepared to stand up for it at whatever cost. I will never forget Hugh Shearer who was generally liked by the populace, but caused an outcry in 1968 when his government banned Black Power activist Walter Rodney from re-entering Jamaica. Following a series of riots, Shearer stood by the ban claiming that Rodney was a danger to Jamaica. His record may have been tarnished by that decision but that was a man who cared about the stability of his beloved country; his gifts to Jamaica go beyond being a mere politician.

POLITICAL WILL

It seems that there is a lack of political will in Jamaica to take bold and unpopular decisions to fully protect our people, culture and country. The government's emphasis on building the nation through human development will only succeed with "political will". This can only be achieved if all the parties develop their individual strengths to contribute to the collective strength of Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

COTTRELL HYATT

chyatt@postmaster.co.uk

London

Via Go-Jamaica