JAMAICA

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Ceremony of Remembrance
Presiding person: Mr. Charles Roach

Opening Remarks - Dr. Claude Packer J.P., Principal, The Mico College
Prayer – Rev. Stotrell Lowe
Nakumbuka Chant - The Mico College Choir
Breaking of Chains - Mr. Charles Roach accompanied by Akwaaba Drummers
Nakumbuka Poem - Ku-Soonogo
His Excellency the Governor General of Jamaica
- Unveiling of photograph of Dr. Taylor
- Launching of Museum in Education
- Presentation of A.J. Newman Scholarship Award
Redemption Song and South African Anthemn – The Mico College Choir
Introduction of Guest Speaker - Mrs. Kay Anderson, Vice Principal, The Mico College
Guest Speaker - Dr. Kamau Brathwaite
Vote of Thanks, Mr. Vivian Crawford, Executive Director, Insitute of Jamaica
National Anthem

The Nakumbuka celebration that was held in Jamaica on 2003 February 20-21 was an overwhelming success. Everything went as planned and quite smoothly. Students from schools across the island attended the celebration. I am not sure of the count so far, but estimates for one location alone counted 700+. All the lectures were full, standing full as well. JCDC, the dance performance, were not in attendance, however, Karen, one of the committee co-ordinaters called on some performers in Downtown Kingston and they came impromptu. The Poetry Corner was exceptional, the poets were on top form for the afternoon. Ras Rod, one of the poets, congratulated the Committee stating that Nakumbuka was one of the best co-ordinated events in Jamaica in years.

There was media coverage, please see attached clippings of the Jamaican Daily Gleaner and the Observer. There were five initiates enchained. The Gleaner highlighted Ku-Soonogo aka Basil Lopez and Yashika Lopez dressed in African clothing on the front page of the Friday 2003 February 21 issue. Samuel Gordon and not certain of the names of the other female and male initiates are shown in the Observer which was printed on page three. TVJ also covered the event on television on the Friday evening news.

Thanks everyone for the support and the inspiration. I am sure that the event will continue to grow.