Unity: Jamaica at 50

As we approach Jamaica's 50th year of Independence, The Gleaner asks business leaders to weigh in on the need to inspire unity at this time: Why is unity important, and what does it mean when Jamaicans go forward with one accord?

Dennis Lalor, Chairman, ICWI GROUP

Unity connotes a oneness and a harmony among persons, and by extension, the country in general. Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, a country cannot succeed without unity. The mark of our past is the depth of our acceptance of injustice and tragedy and freedom and liberty, and we lose out because good people are not vigilant.

As Jamaica celebrates its 50th anniversary of Independence, Lalor said it is a time of great transformation for the country and each Jamaican has a part to play. "Forgive, forget, and bear with the faults of others as we would have them bear with ours. Be patient and understanding as if we do not change direction, we may end up where we are heading," Lalor said.

Aubyn Hill, Chairman, Nationgrowth

Countries like Singapore and Estonia have been successful economically over the past couple of years because of the unity of its people. With unity, Jamaica can be even more successful in the future than it has been in the past. Jamaica's 50th year of Independence is the optimum opportunity to achieve unity among the people as we would achieve higher economic, moral, and social standards. Leaders in politics and the Church must make a concerted effort towards unity so that everyone will have a clear set of ideals to emulate.