Sam Sharpe, the man at the forefront of the war that ended slavery in Jamaica, is about to be honored by the country. Reports reaching us is that Sharpe will be honored with his own day in 2019.
Plans for Sam Sharpe Day are already in the pipeline to honor the National hero by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport. This was made known in a speech delivered by the State Minister, Alando Terrelonge, on behalf of Minister Orlando Grange at the recently concluded Flames of Freedom celebration.
The celebration is held yearly in commemoration of the war led by Sam Sharpe from 1831 – 1832. This year’s edition held at the Tulloch Castle in Kensington. According to the Minister a major role will be played by the Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College in the actualization of this project.
The Ministry has also reassured the MP representing South St. James, Derrick Kellier, that the National Council on Reparations will take over the responsibility of the Flames of Freedom celebrations for 2019. The Council will be working together with the foundation he set up.
Jamaica is working hard to ensure that the great deeds of Sam Sharpe are not forgotten but generations will be educated on what he achieved and how he changed history. Kellier on his part appreciated the Minister for heeding his call for support. He went further to invite the whole of Jamaica to join in as the project is Herculean, requiring the efforts of all and sundry.
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