KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC -Jamaicans have been called on to participate in a National Day of Mourning for the country’s children.
Friday has been declared the day to mourn the loss of Jamaica’s children who have been killed and support those suffering abuse.
On Wednesday, Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen read a Proclamation during a ceremony at King’s House.
In his remarks, the Governor-General said the Proclamation was more than a campaign, noting that it is a pledge to protect, care and love the innocence that “makes our homes wholesome.”
“The Proclamation you receive today is not just a piece of paper but a banner we must carry in our homes, communities, and nation. We commit to our children that they can grow, learn and dream in a nation free from violence and fear,” he stated.
The Governor-General said the gravity of the prevailing situation regarding the welfare of the nation’s children could be pretty sad but maintained that there is immense hope.
“Our strength is not in the face of violence but in the spirit, unity, compassion, and relentless determination. The same spirit can transform into the sublime, the peril into possibilities, and the violence into victory,” he stated.
Sir Patrick also underscored that safeguarding the nation’s children is everyone’s responsibility.
“They are the brightest stars in our universe, the keys to our future, and the nation’s soul. The call to safeguard their well-being and dignity is not just an appeal; it is a sacred responsibility, and we all bear that responsibility,” he said.
“Today, we gather to light the beacon of a cause that echoes through the chambers of our hearts to cease crime and violence against [our] children and secure our collective future,” he stated.
The Governor-General urged citizens to rally together for the island’s children, who are the nation’s narrative.
“Let the world witness that we have not just heard the call but are answering,” he declared.
The Proclamation encourages citizens to participate in the Day of Mourning, noting that this may include devotionals, remembrance services in homes, workplaces, churches, schools, and private or small group prayer vigils.
Persons may also engage in individual or group moments of silence, turning on headlights, wearing black, tolling church bells at noon, and any other appropriate response.
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