The Vibrant Tapestry of Jamaica Day Festival 2024
By Ijeoma Ukazu, Editorial Associate
Despite the weather forecast of being partly cloudy with temperatures around 23 degrees Celsius (23°C (73°F) with a chance of showers of rain on August 10th, Jamaicans living in Ottawa gathered at the Rideau Community Hub to commemorate the Jamaica Day Festival, popularly known as JAM Day, which fell during its Independence Day as the nation turned 62.
The annual Jamaica Day Festival, which was more spectacular than ever and celebrated the island’s rich culture, history, and spirit, took place in the open field at the Community Hub at St. Laurent Boulevard in Ottawa.
While the tents were being set up, the smell of barbecue and chicken at the field’s entrance filled the air. Tents by the Black Ottawa Mental Health Coalition were set up, as were other vendors displaying colourful crafts, intricate beadwork, toys for kids, and vibrant fabrics of gift items that reflected the island’s heritage. The rhythmic beats of reggae and dancehall music echoed through the field, inviting everyone to join the celebration.
Every year, the Jam Day Festival unites the sons and daughters of Jamaica. The festival kicked off with a well-turned-out crowd, with some adorned in outfits representing the tri-colour Jamaican flag of green, black, and gold.
Guests sat under a specially arranged canopy. Claudine Mitchell, President of Jamaica (Ottawa) Community Association, (JOCA), made an opening remark, acknowledging the presence of invited guests and Jamaicans in Ottawa for their bravery and resilience in standing tall in their endeavours.
As the Mayor of Ottawa, Mark Sutcliffe, made his way to the podium to address the guests at the festival, it was a mark of honour and acknowledgement from the government of Canada to the people of Jamaicans in Ottawa.
Sutcliffe, in his address, said, “I am pleased to be here for Jam Day 2024, and I thank you for everything you are doing for our city. I want to thank you for organizing this amazing event to celebrate Jamaican culture and all the contributions Jamaicans make to our city, the food, and the music. All these enrich our city and contribute to the multiculturalism Canada is known for.”
According to Rawlson King, the Deputy Mayor for the City of Ottawa and Councillor representing Rideau-Rockcliffe, Jamaicans are known for their rich and vibrant culture and have shown resilience since their independence from British colonial rule in 1962.
King said, “This event is to commemorate the rich tapestry of Jamaican cultural heritage that has woven itself into the fabric of our diversity here in Ottawa. Our city is proud to behold a thriving Jamaican community. Jamaicans have made countless contributions to our city, ranging from sports to business to public service. Your presence enriches our community, making it more vibrant, compassionate, and resilient. As we celebrate, we acknowledge the strength and determination of the Jamaican people.
“Let us celebrate the community and diversity that the City of Ottawa and Canada provides, and let us commit to fostering understanding, respect, and friendship amongst all cultures as Jamaican independence continues to inspire us all.”
The Jamaican High Commissioner to Canada, Her Excellency Marsha Core-Lobban, said as Jamaica marks 62 years, she extols Jamaicans both at home and in the diaspora for being positive ambassadors of Jamaica and by keeping the culture and heritage of the country.
“With your efforts, you have been able to bring Jamaica forward and alive across the globe. I employ you to continue to uphold the values of Jamaica so that generations unborn would be proud to be Jamaicans and celebrate our achievements and country.”
Meanwhile, earlier in the event, Sseku Martins, one of Uganda’s best gospel artists, rendered beautiful reggae songs at the makeshift stage of the festival, followed by a group of musicians playing lively tunes, adding to the festive atmosphere.
A highlight of the festival was the Chinese exercise called Tai Chi, which is an ancient martial art that involves slow, flowing motions and deep, slow breathing to exercise the body and calm the mind. The Tai Chi was showcased by the Support Group Ottawa. Another colourful display of umbrellas, known as the Chinese umbrella dance, enhanced the Jamaica Day Festival.
Among the performers was Kay Morris, a reggae gospel singer and preacher. Dressed in a white dress adorned with green, gold, and black on her dress, she embodied the colours of the Jamaican flag. As she took the stage, Morris danced while singing three of her songs, “Down by the River, Unite, and Sweet Salvation,” as she let the rhythm guide her, and her feet moved effortlessly across the stage. The audience sang along with her.
In her closing remark, Ms. Mitchell, the president of JOCA, acknowledged the presence of Jamaicans in Ottawa and encouraged them to continue to uphold the cultural heritage of the country as we strive for excellence in all our endeavours.
