Demonstrate national unity in a time of displacement

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Jamaica stands at a pivotal moment. As the United States signals the possibility of mass deportations, our nation is being called to act with courage, compassion, and clarity of purpose in response to social injustice after the shame of our coerced dismissal of our Cuban medical professionals from our shores.

People must prepare ourselves to stand up and show strength and solidarity as a people socially, economically, and spiritually and stand firm for liberty and justice. As we prepare to provide refuse for the displaced, oppressed, persecuted, and frightened whose lives have been overturned again by political action.

Jamaica has always stood with our Caribbean brothers and sisters. From Grenada, Haiti to Cuba, our history is one of solidarity, shared struggle, and mutual upliftment. Today, as Haiti faces unprecedented turmoil, we must reaffirm that bond. Our doors must remain open with responsible controls to our shores. We must also be receptive, and our institutions ready to support families seeking safety and employment to become productive citizens of our communities and country as they provide for their families and prepare for the future.

These incoming residents some of whom are returning nationals, retirees, refugees, and migrants will not arrive empty-handed. They bring resources inherent to our Caribbean brothers and sisters of skills, culture, faith, creativity, and a profound sense of community. If we integrate them into the fabric of our society, we strengthen Jamaica itself. This is not a burden; it is an opportunity to deepen our national resilience.

Haiti, the first independent nation in the hemisphere has inspired every Caribbean and Latin American country even militarily helping the very country that has expelled them in its pursuit of freedom. Jamaica has long served as a safe haven for Haitian leaders and citizens. Today, as Haiti undergoes an evolution shaped by inequality and unrest, we must again extend our support.

We must be prepared to open our shores, schools, hospitals, workplaces, and homes to those seeking refuge. Our infrastructure must be strengthened not only for Jamaicans but for our brothers and sisters who seek safety.

Our musical prophets have long warned us of oppression and the need for unity. Bob Marley’s call to “stand up for our right” and Mykal Rose’s reminder that “things and time have changed” echo today with renewed urgency.

PATRICK BROWN

Pembroke Pines, Florida

pbrown_436@yahoo.com