The Jamaican government has formally renewed its commitment to supporting Maroon communities during the 288th anniversary commemoration of the pivotal 1738 Treaty between Leeward Maroons and British forces. Prime Minister Andrew Holness delivered a significant address in Accompong Town, St. Elizabeth, emphasizing the state’s obligation to provide protection and resources to these historic communities.
Speaking during Tuesday’s ceremony that also honored the birthday of Chief Kojo, Holness reframed the Maroon narrative beyond slavery to highlight their extraordinary achievement of forcing British authorities to sign a treaty. ‘When people hear about Jamaica and they hear about the Maroons, they see a side of us that is not just about enslavement. It is also about resistance,’ Holness stated, noting Jamaica’s unique position among former colonies.
The Prime Minister acknowledged historical underinvestment in Maroon regions while assuring corrective measures are underway. ‘The Government of Jamaica supports the Maroon communities. We see you as an invaluable asset,’ he affirmed, praising the community leadership as essential to national development.
Culture Minister Olivia Grange highlighted the cultural resilience and unity demonstrated by Maroon communities, particularly their recovery from Hurricane Melissa’s impact in late October. ‘I see the plants, the trees are getting green again, so it means that we will be getting stronger and we will rebuild,’ Grange observed, referencing Jamaica’s national motto ‘Out of Many, One People’ to emphasize national solidarity.
The commemorative event saw participation from multiple government officials including Dr. Andrew Wheatley (Science and Technology), Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon (Education), and Rhoda Moy Crawford (State Minister for Education), demonstrating cross-governmental support for preserving Jamaica’s Maroon heritage.