Cultural Connections and Celebrations

Dear Readers,

Welcome to this week’s edition of Happenings, your dedicated source for the vibrant activities and key events within our cherished Jamaican diaspora. As the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York, we are thrilled to present a particularly exciting issue, featuring a lineup of cultural milestones and significant events that promise to enrich our community

Highlighting our cover this week is the much-anticipated 10th Biennial Diaspora Conference, slated for June 16th to 19th. This event stands as a testament to the enduring bonds and collaborative spirit of the Jamaican diaspora. We are excited to provide a special supplement in this issue, offering an in-depth preview of the conference’s schedule, speakers, and sessions. I urge each of you to dive into this supplement to grasp the full scope of what promises to be an enlightening and engaging conference.

Early registration for the Diaspora Conference is now open, and I encourage you to secure your spot promptly. Special packages are available, designed to make this experience both memorable and affordable. Do not miss out on exclusive hotel deals – they are selling fast and are an integral part of making the most out of the conference experience. Keep an eye out for upcoming airline deals, as we anticipate offering great options for travel soon.

Beyond the conference, this edition is packed with stories and updates on events that celebrate our rich culture and community spirit. Be sure not to miss:

• The Issa Trust For the Children Gala, a vital initiative supporting healthcare for our youngest;

• Reggae Sumfest, which continues to showcase our iconic music on the global stage;

• Reggae at Penn Relays, blending athletic prowess with pulsating rhythms;

• Braata’s 15th Anniversary, marking a milestone for the organization dedicated to preserving our folk traditions.

Each article is a window into the vibrant life of our community, and I invite you to read and share these stories. Pass this magazine along to friends and family, encouraging them to engage with our shared heritage and contribute to our collective future.

As we are navigating 2024, let us remain connected through these events and initiatives that celebrate our identity and aspirations. Happenings is more than just a magazine; it’s a portal to our culture, a platform for our voices, and a beacon for our undying connection to Jamaica, no matter where we are in the world.

Warm regards,

Chris Benjamin Community Relations Officer Consulate General of Jamaica, New York