Inaugural Jamaica Day Parade to march through Brooklyn on Saturday
Organisers say the 8 August event is the first parade in the United States dedicated exclusively to celebrating Jamaica.
NEW YORK, United States. Thousands are expected in Brooklyn on Saturday 8 August for the inaugural Jamaica Day Parade, which organisers describe as the first parade in the United States dedicated exclusively to celebrating Jamaica, its people, culture and achievements.
The event, organised by the Jamaica Rising Day Parade organisation, is expected to draw Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica from across New York, the United States and around the world.
“The Jamaica Day Parade will transform the streets of Brooklyn into a vibrant sea of black, green and gold, featuring cultural groups, schools, churches, community organisations, elected officials, businesses, entertainers, marching bands, youth organisations, athletes, and members of the global Jamaican Diaspora,” the organisation said.
The parade will be held under the theme “Jamaica Rising: One People. One Legacy. One Future.”
The route
The parade will assemble at Bob Marley Boulevard (Church Avenue) and proceed north along Flatbush Avenue through the heart of Brooklyn, home to one of the largest Jamaican communities outside Jamaica.
Organisers said colourful floats, marching bands, cultural performers and community groups would line the route.
Aims
The organisation said the parade was dedicated to celebrating Jamaican heritage, inspiring young people, strengthening community unity, promoting economic opportunity and connecting the global Jamaican diaspora.
“From the legendary music of Bob Marley to Olympic champions, entrepreneurs, educators, healthcare professionals, artists, public servants, and innovators, Jamaica’s influence reaches every corner of the globe,” it said.
Organisations, businesses, schools, churches, cultural groups, vendors, volunteers and performers have been invited to take part.
“Whether you march, sponsor, volunteer, perform, exhibit, or attend, this is your opportunity to be part of a defining moment in Jamaican American history,” the organisers said. “Bring your family. Bring your friends. Bring your Jamaican pride.”
The organisation said it was committed to building a lasting tradition that honours Jamaica’s past and inspires its future.
