Howard Cooke - Governor-General
THE NATIONAL heritage of our country is more than the preservation of cherished objects, the built environment, the natural environment and the historical record. Unquestionably these aspects of our national heritage are important and must be preserved.
However, we must never forget that our heritage goes beyond the physical structures and institutions. As we observed National Heroes Day this year under the theme "Preserving Our Heritage ... our guide for the future", I call on Jamaicans to look at their own part in the preservation of Jamaica's heritage.
The heritage of Jamaica is basically "you and me". It is a heritage that is built on community rather than individualistic standards. Our heritage has its foundation in "you and me" respecting each other's rights, property and beliefs. It is deeply embedded in our resilience - our ability to fight back...or ability to stand and be counted. Our heritage is about practising the right values and attitudes ... it is about loyalty, justice and integrity.
On this National Heroes Day I challenge every Jamaican to reflect on the ways in which they can help turn this nation back to its true heritage and thereby secure a more robust future for this nation.
I charge the well-thinking people of this country to stand with the relevant authorities to repel the potential plagues of inertia, rebellion and lawlessness that are threatening to overpower us.
We are a rich nation and we have the potential to create larger waves of influence in this world. As we pause to reflect on the achievements of the past and present, I encourage you, my brothers and sisters to move forward in sincerity and pledge to abide by the words of our National Pledge:
Before God and all mankind, I pledge the love and loyalty of my heart, the wisdom and courage of my mind, the strength and vigour of my body in the service of my fellow citizens; I promise to stand up for Justice, Brotherhood and Peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think generously and honestly, so that Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty, fellowship and prosperity, and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race.
I pray that we will all have a meaningful National Heroes Day celebration.
- Howard Cooke - Governor-General
