Common sense
In my humble opinion, Jamaicans advocating the teaching of Patois are no less patriotic than those opposed.
They are just letting emotion and sentiment trump common sense. No Jamaican needs to be taught Patois. We should all be concerned about finding ways for our children to learn to read, speak, and write Standard English early enough to negate the negative effects of Patois. My great aunt took the time to teach me to read from the Bible as I was learning to talk. I am eternally grateful to her.
- Stanley Palmer sahyans@yahoo.com, Kansas City Missouri, Via Go-Jamaica
The right thing
In connection with the impending presidential election of the PNP, I cannot believe that everyone seems to think that Dr Phillips is not doing the right thing. Are we not a thriving democracy? Isn't this what our forefathers fought for?
If we look at other countries, usually, after an election defeat, the leader of the party resigns as is the case in England and Canada. Even in the United States, if the presidential candidate loses, usually, they do not contest the election again. Maybe if Seaga had done this the JLP would not have been out of power for 18 years. I think this is what the country needs and I believe that if the JLP doesn't feel that their leader is doing a good job, that there should be a presidential contest in their party as well.
- Yasmin Golden, yayago60@yahoo.com, Kingston 6, Via Go-Jamaica
An awakening
For the first time in my adult life, I am hearing and seeing an awakening by Jamaicans about their country. The situation in the country is hard and may get harder before it gets better, but there has been a shift in the mindset of our people at home and abroad.
We are demanding more accountability from our public officials and from each other. I believe that if we keep talking and keep pushing, we will create a more equitable Jamaica for all. Anything good is worth fighting for and I believe Jamaica is worth that fight.
- Christopher Campbell camo4@charter.ne,Via Go-Jamaica
Sell Air Jamaica
What is preventing Jamaica from selling Air Jamaica? False pride? If we cannot afford to maintain the airline, for God's sake, give it up! For the younger generation, once upon a time there was no Air Jamaica, and we travelled the world. Jamaicans will continue to travel with or without Air Jamaica. Let's be realistic.
- Marie Golding, mgolding@swmwas.com, Miami Florida, Via Go-Jamaica
