On Thursday, the 20th of February 2014, the History Department, as part of their development plan, staged an event in celebration of “Jamaica Day”. The theme for the day’s celebration was “Ole Time Sinting Come Back Again”.
This Celebration was in part, recognition of “Black History Month”, as well as an initiative by the History Department to encourage students to take pride in, and be aware of, aspects of Jamaica’s culture.
Teachers were encouraged to wear white and black which was accessorized with bandanas, scarfs and hand kerchiefs. Most teachers complied and it was a beautiful display of uniformity.
The celebration began at approximately 12 noon after the students and teachers had returned from the Helen Douglas Awards. There were two main displays: One featured artefacts such as furniture, tools, craftwork, musical instruments, household articles, money, stamps, among others, while the other was of foods that are indigenous to Jamaica.
The students’ excitement was evident as many of the displayed articles were unknown to them. In addition, various Jamaican dishes, fruits and pastries were on sale. These were sold at a minimal cost since the aim was to further expose students to their culture and not to make a profit.
A live band added to the day’s entertainment. The highlight of the day was a grand concert in which both teachers and students performed. This featured an exciting fashion show of male and female teachers demonstrating fashion from yesteryear to the present. It was truly a wonderful and informative day enjoyed by everyone.
The History Department hopes to make the Jamaica Day Celebration an annual event.
Shawnee Nyame is a history teacher at KC.