PRIME MINISTER ANDREW HOLNESS SET FOR FIRST BRONX TOWN HALL WITH JAMAICAN DIASPORA

For the first time, the Jamaican community in the Bronx will have the opportunity to engage directly with Jamaica’s Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP, during a special Town Hall Meeting at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. While the Prime Minister has previously held similar engagements in Brooklyn and Queens, this marks his inaugural Town Hall in the Bronx, reflecting a significant expansion of dialogue with the Jamaican Diaspora across New York City.

Organized by the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York, this Town Hall is set to be a pivotal event, offering a platform for Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica to interact directly with Prime Minister Holness. Discussions will cover a range of topics vital to Jamaicans both at home and abroad, from economic development and investment opportunities to social issues and government initiatives aimed at strengthening ties with the diaspora.

The Prime Minister will be accompanied by Senator The Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, and Mrs. Alsion Wilson, O.D., Consul General of Jamaica, New York. Together, they will provide comprehensive insights into the Jamaican Government’s policies that impact the diaspora, including efforts to enhance trade relations, boost investment, and foster sustainable development.

In a novel approach to ensuring broad participation, attendees are invited to submit their questions ahead of time. This will allow for questions to be grouped by theme, ensuring that even if specific questions are not addressed during the event, similar topics may still be discussed. This pre-submission process is designed to maximize the engagement and ensure a more inclusive dialogue.

Representatives from Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) will also be present, offering guidance on investment opportunities in Jamaica. In addition, members of the Jamaican Consular team will be available to address specific concerns related to consular matters such as passports, citizenship, and more.

The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts will transform into a hub of cultural celebration, with elements of Jamaica’s vibrant heritage on full display. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as there will be ample opportunities to interact with officials, gain valuable information, and connect with fellow members of the community.

Registration Required for Participation

To facilitate a smooth event, all participants abide by the security arrangements of Lehman College and as such must register in advance. Registration can be completed online through the Consulate General of Jamaica’s official website at www.congenjamaica-ny.org. This step ensures that the event remains manageable and allows for adequate preparation to accommodate all attendees.

The Jamaican Government continues to underscore its commitment to maintaining robust ties with its diaspora. The Town Hall in the Bronx represents a further step in that direction, reinforcing the importance of the Jamaican community in New York to the country’s ongoing growth and development.

Getting There

The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts is conveniently accessible via public transportation. The 4 Train stops at Bedford Park Blvd. Lehman College Station, while the B and D Trains stop at Bedford Park Blvd. Station. Several Bronx bus routes, including Bx 1, 2, 3, 9, 10, 12, 22, 26, 28, 32, and 34, serve the area, along with Manhattan’s MTA Express Bus BxM-4A and BxM-4B. For those driving, parking is available at Lehman College for a fee of $10, located at Goulden Avenue and Bedford Park Boulevard West.

This Town Hall Meeting is an opportunity for New York’s Jamaican community to engage with national leadership, discuss shared concerns, and contribute to shaping the future of Jamaica. Participants are encouraged to come ready with their questions and ideas to ensure a productive and meaningful dialogue.