Culture, language and the Constitution

 THE EDITOR, Madam:

In recent weeks, the Opposition MP from South St James sparked a linguistic controversy in Parliament by attempting to deliver her speech in Patois. Since then, responses have emerged across the country. This article highlights two perspectives: “Parliament cannot ignore Jamaica’s linguistic reality” and “Recognition for patois requires policy, not performance.”

The former argues that the rejection of “Jamiekan” exposes a deeper contradiction, noting that “the courts already demonstrate greater realism than Parliament.” The latter critiques how the issue was raised and contends that Jamaica deserves a constitutional future that reflects its cultural realities.

What, then, is the root of this linguistic problem? What policy should guide constitutional reform? Such matters must be introduced either by a parliamentarian or by citizens petitioning Parliament with proposals for change. But is the Constitution itself at the heart of the issue?

The Jamaican (Constitution) Order in Council 1962 neglects the country’s national culture — the beliefs and values shaped by resistance to oppression. A constitution should recognise and protect national culture while acknowledging past injustices to prevent their recurrence. In doing so, it can promote equality and justice.

However, the Order in Council 1962, issued from Buckingham Palace, showed little intention of recognising Jamaica’s history and culture. Instead, it relied on national symbols and a motto to forge unity. The British coloniser advanced its so-called civilising mission through its language and culture, leaving a lasting imprint.

Jamaica’s Constitution is grounded in the Westminster model, which defines the political community but neglects the cultural one. Notably, it lacks a preamble — a missed opportunity after centuries of slavery and colonialism. A preamble outlines a constitution’s purpose and values, often rooted in national history. Examples from the United States, France, and South Africa show how nations acknowledge past injustices and assert collective identity. Jamaica’s Constitution contains no equivalent “We, the people…,” reflecting an independence settlement that largely preserved the status quo.

Culture, language, and education are critical drivers of development. Language plays a central role in learning. While the immediate goal is not to replace English instruction, it should be taught as a second language, as with French or Spanish. For this to be effective, Jamaican Patois/Creole must receive official recognition.

The language issue also arises in the courts. The recent controversy in Parliament could have been avoided. Although the PNP did not win the election, it could have advanced a Private Member’s Bill to pursue constitutional reform recognising the language spoken by the majority of Jamaicans.

This is an urgent national issue, not just an electoral talking point. Recognition of Patois must be pursued as bipartisan policy — not performance.

Louis E.A. Moyston, PhD