PRIME MINISTER Andrew Holness, is urging Jamaicans to reject violence and focus building a society that is more compassionate and peaceful.
“We, as a society, have not fully overcome slavery, and one element of it that still permeates, pervades, directs, influences, conditions and cultures us, is violence,” he contended.
The Prime Minister was delivering the main address at the Emancipation Jubilee ceremony held at Seville Heritage Park in St Ann on Sunday.
Holness argued that violence, which has permeated Jamaica’s history dating back to the period of slavery, was having an apparent “hangover” effect on the nation.
This, he explained, was evidenced by impairment in rational thinking and social interaction and the aggressive manner displayed by some persons, and the manner in which they treat with disputes and differences.
“We see it every day in the murder rate. We see it in how we deal with each other, man to man, woman to woman…whether it is domestic abuse, spousal abuse, child abuse, carnal abuse or sexual abuse,” the Prime Minister stated.
In light of the negative effect which he said it was having on the nation, Holness encouraged persons to denounce violence and deepen their contribution to nation building.
The Prime Minister said that as Jamaicans reflect on the nation’s emancipation from slavery, “we must use our history to create a better future.”
“A future that is less violent. A future where we, as a people, deal with each other with love, respect and caring. I want to use this platform to appeal to all Jamaicans to let use our freedom to build a more peaceful and loving and caring society,” Prime Minister Holness implored.
The 19th Seville Emancipation Jubilee was organised by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) under the distinguished patronage of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister, Hon. Olivia Grange.
The cultural event was held under the theme: ‘United and Free…What a Jubilee, and attended by a number of Government officials and parliamentarians.
They included: wife of the Prime Ministe Juliet Holness; Labour and Social Security Minister Shahine Robinson; Justice Minister Delroy Chuck and State Minister for National Security Pearnel Charles, Jr.
South East St Ann Member of Parliament Lisa Hanna represented Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller.
The event also featured entertainment provided by a wide cross section of artistes and performers. (JIS)
