Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica residing in Washington, DC will celebrate Jamaica’s 45th year of Independence with several events, to be hosted by Jamaican Ambassador to the United States, Professor Gordon Shirley and the Jamaican embassy in Washington, DC

The events will begin with a  Jamaica Night at Zanzibar on the Waterfront, downtown Washington, DC, featuring Bare Essentials Band and Sprang International on Friday, 3 August at 7:00 p.m.

On Saturday, August 4th,  Jamaican Association of Maryland and Baltimore Cricket & Social Club will stage their Independence Ball at Martins West, Baltimore, Maryland commencing at 7:00 p.m., featuring Image Band and DJ Danny P International

On the same evening the Jamaican Nationals Association will hold its Independence Gala at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel. Downtown Washington, DC.   Guest speaker will be ,Senator G. Anthony Hylton, Minister of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade.  Among the special guests will be Mrs. Michelle Fenty, First Lady, Washington, DC, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Professor Gordon Shirley.  Patrons will dance to the Bobby's Music Machine. The event begins at 6:30 pm.

The Independence celebrations will climax with the annual Independence Sunday Market an all-day Jamaican festival.  On the lawns of the Organization of American States (OAS) beginning at 1:00 p.m.  The grand market atmosphere featuring stalls, booths, and other elements depicting Jamaica’s cultural heritage, art and music on display. Jamaica’s Grammy award winner, Shaggy will headline the entertainment which will also feature Bob Andy, Bare Essentials Band, DJ Sprang International, Image Band and MC Jerry D.

In commenting on the Independent activities, Ambassador Gordon Shirley said "On behalf of all Jamaicans, we are looking forward to the opportunity to stage these events, along with our partners and friends who have helped to make Jamaica the wonderful country that it is, and worthy of such grand celebration."  "We look forward to continuing the tradition of sharing the Jamaican spirit in the years to come, and encourage all of our friends to join us in the upcoming celebrations," he added

JIS, Washington, DC
Derrick A. Scott

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