Jamaica better without colonial rule - councillor
Published:Wednesday | August 3, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Gareth Davis Sr, Gleaner Writer
PORT ANTONIO, Portland:
WAYNE MCKENZIE, councillor for the Prospect division on Sunday urged members of the Shiloh Apostolic Church to rid their minds of the idea that Jamaica would be better served under colonial rule.
McKenzie, who represented Dr Donald Rhodd at the Jamaica Cultural Development Comm-ission's (JCDC) Portland chapter Emancipation Day church service, said under our colonial masters, persons were abused, murdered, raped, victimised, and denied basic privileges.
Mental slavery
He noted that, as Jamaicans, we should strive to enjoy the freedom of Independence fought for by our national heroes, including Sam Sharpe, George William Gordon, and Paul Bogle, and to pave the way for future generations.
Meanwhile, Floyd Patterson, mayor of Port Antonio, urged the congregation to free themselves from mental slavery, which continues to downplay Jamaica's potential and ability.
He urged them to instead be productive, positive, and to support the powers that be, who are attempting to shape the country unto a path of success.
"As a people, we ought to come together, and to work for the betterment of this parish, but no, we continue to depend on the politicians. All we need is the energy, the commitment and the togetherness to go forward, but we lack the willpower. As a people we need to come together and emancipate ourselves from mental slavery."
The church service, which preceded an emancipation vigil, attracted dozens of other persons from various organisations, including the police, fire department, parish council, Portland Chamber of Commerce, and Lay Magistrates Association.
The JCDC will hold its annual Independence parade and flag-raising ceremony at the Port Antonio square on Friday.