SAYING IT will be one of the "greatest memories of our history," Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke, yesterday officially declared June 16 'Jamaica Diaspora Day'.
"Whereas Jamaicans living abroad have never forgotten their roots as is manifested in the numerous charitable initiatives undertaken each year, the consistent promotion of Jamaica in every sphere of activity, the increase flow of remittances and contribution to nation building and the overwhelming support given by Jamaicans to Jamaica's teams wherever they perform abroad," the Governor-General said in reading part of the proclamation at King's House, yesterday.
FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTRY CONGRATULATED
He congratulated the Foreign Affairs Ministry for making the "great leap forward" in having a Diaspora Day.
The decision to have a Diaspora Day was taken at the first Jamaica Diaspora Conf-erence which was held June 16 and 17 last year at the Jamaica Conference Centre, downtown Kingston.
K.D Knight, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said it was amazing just how well known Jamaica is around the world.
He noted that migrated Jamaicans contribute to the development of the countries they have chosen to reside in, but without forgetting their home island of Jamaica.
Jasmine Pottinger, President of the National Association of Returned Residents, told The Gleaner that having a Diaspora Day is a milestone in the history of the Jamaican diaspora.
"This is something that we have long waited for and dreamed about. I am one of those who lived abroad for 36 years and to see now that those who are living abroad are recognised and the day is set that we can come together, it is an achievement," Mrs. Pottinger said.
Jamaica Diaspora Day will be launched in a ceremony tomorrow at the Hilton Hotel in New Kingston.
