The Editor, Sir:

We have come to the end of February 2007 and once again, for those of us who are aware of our heritage, for those of us who are conscious and proud of being black, it was another time when we relived some of the pain, suffering and agony that our ancestors went through.

February, being designated Black History Month across the globe, is a time when we relive, celebrate and commemorate our past, especially that dark era of and after slavery.

Mixed feelings

As these historical events are re-enacted and recited, it brings on mixed feelings of anger and pride. Anger is sometimes felt towards those who inflicted on our foreparents the most inhumane treatment that could ever be meted out to fellow human beings during and after slavery; and pride when positive results were realised and objectives met, despite the obstacles and trials faced and the fact that a lot of them had to pay the ultimate sacrifice.

As I saw and heard the glowing tributes being extended to our own National Heroes and other great stalwarts who stood up and fought for the upliftment of our race, on local and international television networks and radio stations, it brought tears to my eyes, as I tried to reminisce the unrelenting trials, battles and struggles that these men and women had to endure to achieve what they believed in. Unfortunately, most of them never lived long enough to see or inherit the changes that came about as a result of their committed efforts.

Today, let us recall some great black men and women. Let us remember Marcus, Dr. King, Malcolm, Nelson and Winnie Mandela, Medgar Evers, Bustamante, Manley, Nanny, Harriett Tubman, Rosa Parkes, to name a few; and while we recall those of renown, let us not forget the unsung heroes who played very important and crucial roles in the fight against oppression and barbarism.

Today, most of us can proudly state that we have not given up our principles, we remain loyal to the struggle of improving the standard of living of our children and the generations to come. Despite the hardships, we will continue our march towards a brighter future.

I am, etc.,

URIEL N. WILLIAMS

williu2005@yahoo.com

Bushy Park, May Pen

Clarendon

Via Go-Jamaica