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LANHAM, Md. — Hundreds of Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica from across the Washington region gathered Sunday at Seabrook Seventh-day Adventist Church for a thanksgiving service. The service marked Jamaica’s 64th anniversary of independence and 188th anniversary of emancipation.
The annual observance drew diplomats, state legislators, government officials, clergy members and diaspora leaders. It was held under the theme, “United We Stand: Rebuilding with Resilience.”
Independence Message
Delivering the independence message on behalf of the Embassy of Jamaica, Chargée d’Affaires Lishann Salmon said Jamaica’s journey since independence has been defined by courage. She highlighted faith and a determination to overcome adversity as well.
Salmon said Jamaica’s influence extends far beyond its size through achievements in music, sports, diplomacy, education, health care, business and culture.
“Resilience is more than our ability to endure hardship,” Ms. Salmon said. “It is our capacity to rise, rebuild and move forward with renewed determination.”
Devastation Caused by Hurricane Melissa
Reflecting on the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Salmon commended Jamaicans at home and abroad for responding with compassion and generosity. In addition, she praised their shared commitment to rebuilding. She also thanked the Jamaican diaspora across the United States for its service, advocacy and support for Jamaica’s recovery and long-term development.
Invoking Jamaica’s national motto, “Out of Many, One People,” Salmon encouraged Jamaicans to remain united and invest in young people. She urged them to strengthen national institutions and expand opportunities for all Jamaicans to realize their full potential.
The Rev. Eron Henry, editor at Judson Press and former communications director of the Baptist World Alliance, delivered the sermon. He blended biblical teaching, Jamaican history and national identity in an appeal for resilience, service and diaspora unity.
Henry said Jamaicans possess a distinctive spirit recognized around the world, whether they were born on the island or are descendants of Jamaicans living overseas.
Significance of Emancipation and Independence
Marking the significance of emancipation and independence, he reminded worshippers that Jamaicans are descendants of people who survived slavery, oppression and hardship. He explained that they helped build one of the world’s most influential nations.
“A people who were once counted as cargo and branded as property, built churches, schools, families and a nation,” he said. “When you spot us in a crowd, you are seeing the descendants of survivors. That aura is the afterglow of resilience, strength and power.”
Using Bible examples, Rev. Henry urged Jamaicans to live like Christ. He said they should be “the light of the world.” He also urged them to produce “good fruit” through integrity, service, and compassion.
Henry also called for stronger unity among Jamaican diaspora groups across the United States. He warned that internal divisions can weaken their shared impact. He added that divisions can divert resources from efforts that could help Jamaican communities.
A former pastor of William Knibb Baptist Church in Falmouth, Jamaica, Henry challenged Jamaican organizations to replace conflict with collaboration. Moreover, he said resources spent on disputes could instead support scholarships, community programs and opportunities for Jamaicans at home and abroad.
Calling reconciliation “the truest celebration of emancipation,” Henry urged diaspora organizations in the DMV, New York, Florida and other parts of the United States to set aside differences and work together in Jamaica’s national interest.
“The island needs us united, and we need one another,” he said. “When Jamaica hurts, the diaspora feels it. When the diaspora is strong, the island is stronger.”
Call to support Jamaica’s rebuilding
Earlier, Jamaican-born biblical scholar Bertram Melbourne welcomed worshippers and praised the unity shown by Jamaicans following Hurricane Melissa. He urged the diaspora to sustain its support for Jamaica’s rebuilding efforts.
“Our united stand accomplished a lot for our country, medically, financially, materially and socially,” said Melbourne, who helped coordinate planning for the event. “This spirit of resilience must not only be celebrated but practiced by every Jamaican at home and abroad.”
DMV Jamaica Diaspora Awards
The service also included the presentation of the fourth annual DMV Jamaica Diaspora Awards.
Awards Subcommittee Chairman Ian Edwards announced the 2026 recipients. Ophthalmologist Basil Morgan received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Global partnerships and social impact strategist Vanessa Butler Andrew received the Individual Award. Island Quizine, led by Chief Executive Officer Donovan Murphy, received the Organization/Institution Award.
The awards were presented by the Embassy’s Chargée d’Affaires.
Three members of the DMV Jamaican community who died since the previous independence service were recognized posthumously for their enduring legacy of service.
Ambassador Curtis Ward, Dr. Darien Green and Christopher Davis were honoured, with certificates of posthumous recognition presented to family representatives in attendance.
The congregation also heard music by saxophonist Melinda Ford, vocalist Erin Stewartson, and Seabrook Praise. Kenneth Jarrett led Seabrook Praise, along with other musicians.
The offering collected during the service will support the Windsor Therapeutic Centre in St. Ann, Jamaica, formerly the Windsor Girls’ Home. The center provides care, education and rehabilitation services for vulnerable girls.
Following the service, the Embassy of Jamaica hosted a reception for worshippers, award recipients and invited guests. Meanwhile, the Jamaican community continued its celebration of the nation’s 64th Anniversary of Independence and 188 years of Emancipation.
Independence Celebrations
The DMV’s independence celebrations will conclude with Jamaica Fest on Sunday, Aug. 9. The festival will begin at noon at Veterans Plaza in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland.
Organized by the Embassy of Jamaica in partnership with Right Now for Jamaica, the cultural showcase will feature Grammy-nominated reggae artist Etana and Nesbeth. The Image Band and DJ Najair will also perform.
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