Trelawny celebrates Independence with call for unity, resilience

FALMOUTH, Trelawny:

The historic Water Square in Falmouth provided a fitting backdrop on Thursday as the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), in partnership with the Trelawny Municipal Corporation, hosted the parish’s Independence Civic Ceremony.

The ceremony, commemorating Jamaica’s 64th Anniversary of Independence under the theme ‘United in Celebrating Resilience’. brought together government officials, civic leaders, members of the uniformed services, students, and residents in a patriotic observance celebrating Jamaica’s achievements.

Custos Hugh Gentles, accompanied by Mayor Collen Gager, inspected the Guard of Honour mounted by members of the Trelawny Division of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Jamaica Fire Brigade, and the Jamaica Defence Force. The custos also took the general salute before the commencement of the civic ceremony.

Delivering the governor general’s message, Gentles urged Jamaicans to continue drawing strength from the resilience that has sustained the nation throughout its history. He encouraged citizens to uphold the values of unity, service, and integrity while working together to build a stronger, more inclusive Jamaica where every citizen has the opportunity to contribute to national development.

In the prime minister’s Independence message, read by Minister of State Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert, Jamaicans were reminded that the country’s greatest achievements have always come through unity, determination, and an unwavering belief in its people. The message called on citizens at home and across the diaspora to embrace the spirit of resilience, work together to overcome challenges, and continue building a secure, prosperous, and globally respected Jamaica.

A TRIBUTE

Welcoming those in attendance, Gager said the celebration was not only a commemoration of Jamaica’s political independence but also a tribute to the enduring character of the Jamaican people.

“Our history reminds us that resilience has carried us through every season of challenge and change. It is the same resilience that continues to strengthen our families, our communities, and our nation,” he said.

The mayor urged Jamaicans to reject hopelessness and division and instead embrace optimism, unity, and shared responsibility.

“The future of our nation cannot be shaped by government alone. It requires every citizen to play a part,” he said, encouraging Jamaicans to choose “love over hostility, unity over division, and respect over discord”.

He also paid tribute to the nation’s police officers, soldiers, firefighters, teachers, healthcare workers, sanitation workers, and other public servants whose dedication continues to strengthen communities across the island.

Patriotism was on full display throughout the ceremony as Teja Jea Rose, Miss Trelawny Festival Queen 2026, confidently delivered the National Pledge, while students of Granville Primary and Infant School, winners of the JCDC Gold Medal for Folk Song, delighted the audience with a vibrant cultural performance celebrating Jamaica’s rich musical heritage.

With Jamaica’s black, green, and gold proudly flying above Water Square, the ceremony concluded with a renewed call for citizens to remain united in purpose, resilient in spirit, and steadfast in their commitment to building a stronger nation for future generations.

editorial@gleanerjm.com