tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70010532024-03-07T00:11:40.057-08:00Yannick's Misadventures in Jamaica & on Asylum EarthThis unique blog is Jamaica's very first blog. It documents the work and thoughts of Jamaican Philpsopher, Yannick Nesta Pessoa. I am an Artist, Graphic Designer, Copywriter, Poet, Social Advocate, Community Activist, Western Mirror Columnist and Legal Student. Follow on Twitter & Instagram @yahnyk. Follow on Youtube @ and Reply to yannickpessoa@gmail.com
Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.comBlogger355125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-80588152074283923192023-04-25T11:41:00.001-07:002023-04-25T11:41:37.395-07:00Caricom needs to consider BRICS - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday<a href="https://newsday.co.tt/2023/04/20/caricom-needs-to-consider-brics/">Caricom needs to consider BRICS - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday</a>: THE EDITOR: Caricom's potential for deeper engagement with BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries and South-South co-operation must not be ignored. The term "South-South agreement" encompasses the array of partnerships between countries in the Global South (generally countries in Latin America, Africa, Asia and Oceania) designed to promote economic, social or politicalYahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-90443199557311348912023-04-03T18:24:00.003-07:002023-04-03T18:24:30.475-07:00Afrotopia<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Black Tomorrow</h2><blockquote style="text-align: left;"><i>"...the map of the new world is in the imagination..." </i><br /><b>-Robin D.G. Kelley, Freedom Dreams</b></blockquote><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;">In the year 2169, when you pick up the device of the day and peruse the news, you are met with headlines forecasting a world population of over ten billion and record-breaking sales of electric vehicles. Articles like “The slow death of the carbon energy era” and “Society and the hybrid generation” catch your eye, but it is the news of the first successful human colony on Saturn’s moon Titan that truly captures your attention. As you click through the accompanying images, you discover that the first person on Titan is a young black woman, hailing from Xaymaca, formerly known as Jamaica. This revelation strikes you deeply, as you look out the window and realize you are not even in Jamaica, but rather in Afrotopia, a newly-formed state in Africa that lives up to its name as an African Utopia, phonetically similar to Ethiopia. Yes, it is real. The future is Black.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAlvkhu19zwG_Sz-d_S_KpeZpAB7Z13bi3TQwQChDL1IFKJFMwZ1QD6IDEduN-m9U5H2i974fK4L8u15vDu7v-6_lQP1Y_bFYEA9yqgxjzOTjNILm5TgJeEhhc02LWeEyK6ghBiuiabTwCXjDcuipbqbyYeJjlZeuX-jxgA8vZdOzz7H20A/s402/Rukundo_modern_futuristic_house_with_garden_5_bedrooms_Africa_B_854a424d-a8c2-4440-807e-269ae0713f9c.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="402" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAlvkhu19zwG_Sz-d_S_KpeZpAB7Z13bi3TQwQChDL1IFKJFMwZ1QD6IDEduN-m9U5H2i974fK4L8u15vDu7v-6_lQP1Y_bFYEA9yqgxjzOTjNILm5TgJeEhhc02LWeEyK6ghBiuiabTwCXjDcuipbqbyYeJjlZeuX-jxgA8vZdOzz7H20A/s320/Rukundo_modern_futuristic_house_with_garden_5_bedrooms_Africa_B_854a424d-a8c2-4440-807e-269ae0713f9c.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />In Afrotopia, the future is black and African, where the continent informs and expands
those identities. Afrofuturism imagines a world where identities are reconnected with our ancient deities and archetypes, where borders and boundaries between our physical , spiritual and metaphysical worlds are blurred, and
where there is room for a plethora of forms of existence.
Afrofuturism offers a way of understanding the world that does not rely
on western philosophical frameworks, but rather on an organic and evolving understanding of identity. <p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeAtHsJyznm2MK02CKq__gOSu1wJqZCrmiCxfYUd7Po4HAjfAY_J40kxI5rvjoMHoqeHKLAgmjbpeMSLkMyjxg4VDV2uz09v8LriNbyUpyU3KCaMomtU-zXkXRc31TR6qso0f4AxiZLQFLjo6Hqa9P0SD5ACSlrIDX--PRDq2uZ_GmBrY1Q/s402/Rukundo_modern_futuristic_house_with_garden_5_bedrooms_Africa_B_ad3f354e-0e1c-4f9e-93b9-a367d96b6aff.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="402" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeAtHsJyznm2MK02CKq__gOSu1wJqZCrmiCxfYUd7Po4HAjfAY_J40kxI5rvjoMHoqeHKLAgmjbpeMSLkMyjxg4VDV2uz09v8LriNbyUpyU3KCaMomtU-zXkXRc31TR6qso0f4AxiZLQFLjo6Hqa9P0SD5ACSlrIDX--PRDq2uZ_GmBrY1Q/s320/Rukundo_modern_futuristic_house_with_garden_5_bedrooms_Africa_B_ad3f354e-0e1c-4f9e-93b9-a367d96b6aff.png" width="320" /></a></p><p style="text-align: left;">Yet, some how, such a noble idea and ideal.... the notion of imagining and re-imaging the African continent is often met with difficulty and derision, mocks and jeers, thanks to Western indoctrination and brainwashing that has instilled stubborn clichés and pseudo-certainties in our collective consciousness. Racism has ravaged history and warped our understanding of our Motherland, perpetuating myths and lies about its state of being. Even during the dawn of independence in the 1960s, Afro-pessimistic ideas painted Africa as a continent that was “badly off” and “adrift.” In the midst of the AIDS pandemic, some even advocated for the extinction of life on the continent.</p><p style="text-align: left;">But we must emancipate ourselves from the mental slavery that racism and the West’s psyche have imposed on us. It is through imagination that we will liberate ourselves from these mental shackles. That is the mission of what today is dubbed the Afrofuturist, and Afrofuturism dear reader, is about imagining a future where black people
survive, but it is also a way of reclaiming the past and the present,
and re-imagining them in a way that centers blackness. It is a way of
questioning and subverting dominant narratives and power structures that
have historically excluded black people. Afrofuturism provides a space
to explore the complexities of identity, culture, and history through a
lens that is not limited by Western ideas of progress and civilization.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Afrofuturism carries with it a flashy aesthetic flair that is now significantly impacting pop culture; it is a space that envisions the future of Black lives beyond the constraints of conventional science fiction, and things like Marvel's Black Panther and Wakanda Forever are barely scratching the tip of the iceberg that is Afrofuturism. Science fiction provides a platform to explore the future in all of its potential utopian and dystopian outcomes, but the genre often relegates Black people to secondary characters who quickly perish, without delving into how race might exist in the future.</p><p style="text-align: left;">This is an ironic approach, given that the same genre depicts superheroes, aliens, robots, and even post-racial white people in situations that Black people have lived for centuries. Forced labor, false imprisonment, involuntary biological testing, and compulsory sterilization may sound like dystopian fiction, but they are all very real and traumatic experiences among members of the African diaspora. Simply being Black and alive is already an Afrofiction. For those of us from communities with historic collective trauma, we must understand that each of us is already science fiction walking around on two legs. Our ancestors dreamed us up and then bent reality to create us. So when you revisit and re-read my opening paragraph, know that it is both a reality, but yet to be.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWOg5dHCUK9YFmhLWXocuKUl4RXGV-LFHvWOCZOoarZKMTz5V0JOSZLLsOiuNBzQQ8C9jLweIpf4fmE2gJZWzRgC-6HZQ7VT4XQGQ6KjcjzirXK8DfMJlhuBMy3DNhcmrOY0BQf5DWE9zM5jcoDxkQ-5ao26zo2bD_uiBoYGCSJWw0bROJg/s512/PHOTO-2023-01-16-09-55-17.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWOg5dHCUK9YFmhLWXocuKUl4RXGV-LFHvWOCZOoarZKMTz5V0JOSZLLsOiuNBzQQ8C9jLweIpf4fmE2gJZWzRgC-6HZQ7VT4XQGQ6KjcjzirXK8DfMJlhuBMy3DNhcmrOY0BQf5DWE9zM5jcoDxkQ-5ao26zo2bD_uiBoYGCSJWw0bROJg/s320/PHOTO-2023-01-16-09-55-17.jpg" width="314" /></a> <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">There is a stark disconnect between science fiction and Black people, but fortunately, the global Black imagination is expansive, and Afrofuturism has emerged as an all-encompassing term that encompasses an art form, a practice, and a methodology that allows Black people to see themselves in the future, despite their distressing past and present. Members of this movement, think up a wide range of visions for what a Black future could look like and be. Afrofuturist art and politics provide a gateway to another galaxy where Blackness survives and a means of expressing the urgency of real Black freedom. Blackness in the future is alive, with access to technology, knowledge, and power. It is Blackness that can make real what is currently only a vision of a life-sustaining world for Black peoples.</p><p style="text-align: left;">What might this Afrofuturistic freedom look like? Perhaps it can be found in the Egyptian-inspired headpieces and clothing worn by Sun during his musical performances or his cult film, Space Is the Place; or, closer to home, we might find it in a bulletproof black male character like Luke Cage whose superpower is being immune to public will to end black lives. Perhaps it is Bogle and Tommy Lee Sparta like "Dancehall Gothica," maybe it is akin to Makonnen Blake-Hannahs Space Age Rasta or the ambient reggae of Easy Star All-Stars. Or, perhaps it is insisting on a tomorrow for a people whose past has been written out.</p><p style="text-align: left;">
Blackness in the future is alive, with access to technology, knowledge, and power. That blackness then can make real what today is only a vision of a life-sustaining world for black peoples. Imagine a black planet, Planet Melanin. Afrofuturism offers a “highly intersectional” way of looking at possible futures or alternate realities through a black cultural lens. It is non-linear and fluid; it uses the black imagination to consider mysticism, metaphysics, identity and liberation; and, despite offering black folks a way to see ourselves in a better future, Afrofuturism blends the future, the past and the present.<span style="background: none; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: initial; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; opacity: 1; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; position: relative; width: initial;"><span style="background: none; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; display: block; height: initial; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; opacity: 1; padding: 0px; width: initial;"> </span><img alt="Yannick Pessoa" class="rounded-sm" data-nimg="intrinsic" src="https://chat.openai.com/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fa%2FAGNmyxY-L6vEE-uYie3UHu8IO5v3uma3kjdb3UvuPHpFjA%3Ds96-c&w=64&q=75" style="border: medium none; box-sizing: border-box; display: block; height: 0px; inset: 0px; margin: auto; max-height: 100%; max-width: 100%; min-height: 100%; min-width: 100%; padding: 0px; position: absolute; width: 0px;" /></span> The world of Afrofuturism is a world of endless possibilities, where technology, art, and culture are intertwined and constantly evolving. It is a world where black people are not just surviving but thriving, where our creativity and resilience are celebrated, and where we are free to imagine and create a future that is truly ours.</p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3" style="text-align: left;"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>In the end, Afrofuturism is a call to action, a reminder that the future is not predetermined, and that we have the power to shape it. It is a way of imagining a world that is just, equitable, and inclusive, and working towards making that world a reality. So let us embrace the power of Afrofuturism, and together, let us imagine a future that is truly black and free.</p><p> </p><p> #tech #culture #politics #environment #health #education #finance #art
#entertainment #sports #science #business #travel #lifestyle #food
#fashion #beauty #relationships #spirituality </p></div></div></div><span class="flex-grow flex-shrink-0"></span>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-52367406744199135782023-03-31T09:50:00.001-07:002023-03-31T09:50:09.680-07:00Jamaica, BRICS and South-South Cooperation<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg9kDlR28rvhT-qV0uSst3cHrtXY1v5NAm-50D_X7ePCGzclZVWzZYuFAaSfRmd53lc5oVG1e-nvxiOVHyAP3t6pjIUPV79vTZ07NFl8CJQSd7BXc8uVjBndoWY7fEKR_KHp40Ssj-hgabhGwx7wNUZML5gjBVwkgT2efcAvdBNeGLmWugaQ/s402/JamaicaBRICS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="402" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg9kDlR28rvhT-qV0uSst3cHrtXY1v5NAm-50D_X7ePCGzclZVWzZYuFAaSfRmd53lc5oVG1e-nvxiOVHyAP3t6pjIUPV79vTZ07NFl8CJQSd7BXc8uVjBndoWY7fEKR_KHp40Ssj-hgabhGwx7wNUZML5gjBVwkgT2efcAvdBNeGLmWugaQ/s320/JamaicaBRICS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><blockquote>"The rise of the BRICS presents both opportunities and challenges for
small states like Jamaica. While the BRICS offer new avenues for trade
and investment, they also pose a potential threat to traditional
economic partnerships.<br />~Henry J. Bernard</blockquote><p><br />Jamaica's potential for deeper engagement with BRICS countries and
South-South cooperation must not be ignored. The term "South-South
Agreement" encompasses the array of partnerships between countries in
the Global South designed to promote economic, social, or political
cooperation. Meanwhile, BRICS countries, as a group of fast-growing,
large economies that have the potential to become major global players
in the 21st century, are viewed as critical actors in the South-South
cooperation discourse. Developing countries often share similar
challenges and opportunities, such as poverty, inequality, and the need
for infrastructure and sustainable development. Hence, South-South
cooperation is an essential platform for developing countries to share
experiences, collaborate on solutions, and implement best practices.<br /><br />BRICS is an acronym that refers to a grouping of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The term was coined by Jim O'Neill, an economist at Goldman Sachs, in 2001, to describe these countries as a group of fast-growing, large economies that have the potential to become major global players in the 21st century. BRICS countries are often seen as key actors in the South-South cooperation discourse. South-South cooperation refers to collaboration among developing countries in areas such as trade, investment, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing, with the aim of promoting economic growth, social development, and poverty reduction.<br /><br />Jamaica, like many other developing countries, could potentially benefit from deeper relations with BRICS countries and the South-South cooperation more broadly. Developing countries often face similar challenges and opportunities, such as poverty, inequality, and the need for infrastructure and sustainable development. South-South cooperation can provide a platform for developing countries to share experiences and best practices, and to collaborate on solutions to common challenges.<br /><br />In addition, Jamaica is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which is a regional organization of 15 Caribbean countries that promotes cooperation and integration among its members. CARICOM provides a forum for South-South cooperation among its member states, and Jamaica has played an active role in promoting regional integration and cooperation in areas such as trade, education, and culture.<br /><br />Jamaica has also been involved in various South-South initiatives related to climate change, including through its participation in the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). AOSIS is a coalition of small island developing states (SIDS) that are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, and it aims to promote cooperation among its members on issues related to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and financing.</p><p><i></i></p><blockquote><i>"South-South cooperation offers a promising alternative to traditional
development assistance, as it promotes mutual learning, shared
experiences, and equal partnerships. However, it also poses challenges
related to political alignment, resource constraints, and institutional
capacity."</i><br /><b>"South-South Cooperation and the Future of Development Assistance:
Mapping Actors and Options" by Bernhard Trautner:</b></blockquote><b></b>For Jamaica, deeper relations with BRICS countries could offer opportunities for trade, investment, and technology transfer. For example, China, one of the BRICS countries, is already a major trading partner and investor in Jamaica, with a focus on infrastructure development and tourism. India, another BRICS country, has also shown interest in increasing its economic engagement with Jamaica, particularly in areas such as renewable energy and agriculture.<br /><br />Furthermore, the New Development Bank, which was established by the BRICS countries, could provide a potential source of financing for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in Jamaica. The bank aims to promote development in emerging economies, and has already approved several projects in other developing countries.<br /><i></i><blockquote><i>"The BRICS countries are emerging as major players in global governance,
challenging the dominance of Western powers. As they continue to gain
influence, they may reshape the international order in significant
ways."</i><br /><b>"BRICS: A New Role in Global Governance" by Paulo Roberto de Almeida</b></blockquote><b></b>The Monroe Doctrine is a U.S. foreign policy doctrine that dates back to the early 19th century, which stated that any intervention by external powers in the politics of the Americas is considered a hostile act against the United States. It is difficult to predict exactly how the changing global dynamics will impact the Monroe Doctrine in the long run. However, it is clear that the doctrine's relevance has declined in recent years as the United States has become less influential and other countries have gained more power in the region.<br /><br />For instance, China has made significant inroads in the region, including through investments in infrastructure, such as ports and railroads, and through trade agreements. Similarly, Russia has developed closer ties with countries in the region, such as Venezuela and Cuba, and has sought to increase its military presence in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, countries such as Brazil and Mexico have become more assertive in their own foreign policies and have sought to play a greater role in regional affairs.<br /><br />All of these factors suggest that the Monroe Doctrine may be less effective in limiting the influence of external powers in the Americas than it has been in the past. However, it is important to note that the United States remains a significant economic and military power in the region, and it is likely that the doctrine will continue to play some role in U.S. foreign policy for the foreseeable future. Ultimately, the impact of changing global dynamics on the Monroe Doctrine will depend on a wide range of factors, including economic, military, and political developments in the region and around the world.<p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><blockquote><i>"The Monroe Doctrine was a landmark policy that established the United
States as a dominant power in the Western Hemisphere. While it has faced
criticism for being outdated and imperialistic, its legacy continues to
shape American foreign policy today."</i><br /><b>"The Monroe Doctrine: A Retrospective" by John G. Schroeder</b></blockquote><p>Today, many countries like China, Russia, India, and others in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and South America are working to counter western dominance by developing alternatives to the west-dominated global economy, especially to the US dollar. For example, the latest BRICS summit, which saw the participation of major emerging economies, including Russia and China, was designed to challenge the G7 and signal to the world that Russia, China, and the Global South are preparing for a long fight against Western dominance. The outcome of this conflict is likely to shape the future of humanity.<br /><br />In the face of global economic hegemony dominated by the West, emerging
economies like China, Russia, and India are developing alternatives to
the US dollar and challenging Western dominance. The latest BRICS summit
saw the participation of major emerging economies and signaled a
challenge to the G7, demonstrating that Russia, China, and the Global
South are preparing for a prolonged fight against Western dominance. As
the US's international decline continues, countries such as BRICS are
creating their own institutions with different values, like the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization and the Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) with China and 14 other countries in the Asia-Pacific
region.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRSdP1vnMZc_07NRxmEIZR4VRkptIHULefd5nVSI5-7PU1s9VyiBd9rQbpLAu63ftSkrS0y64d2T5Ncil0C4wMAGKJfPsPGk_WDbCwv0pF3i9tszP1FK5rwCH-M1TkKvAxeK_Gyq5_BKoyWVGdRvAicNmvtY_TOK_MN-w-yZQQjSb5q8V-w/s402/f941ec57-4323-4c29-bfaf-f42cd9be5c6e.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="402" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRSdP1vnMZc_07NRxmEIZR4VRkptIHULefd5nVSI5-7PU1s9VyiBd9rQbpLAu63ftSkrS0y64d2T5Ncil0C4wMAGKJfPsPGk_WDbCwv0pF3i9tszP1FK5rwCH-M1TkKvAxeK_Gyq5_BKoyWVGdRvAicNmvtY_TOK_MN-w-yZQQjSb5q8V-w/s320/f941ec57-4323-4c29-bfaf-f42cd9be5c6e.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><br />Jamaica must explore the opportunities offered by deeper engagement with
BRICS countries and South-South cooperation, as they provide a platform
for Jamaica to share experiences, collaborate on solutions, and
implement best practices with developing countries sharing similar
challenges and opportunities.</p><p></p><p> </p><p>Other Reading Material: <br /></p><ul><li>"The Impact of South-South Cooperation on Jamaica" by W. Marvin Williams, in Journal of International Development (2016)</li><li>"The BRICS: Opportunities and Challenges for Jamaica" by Henry J. Bernard, in Caribbean Journal of International Relations & Diplomacy (2016)</li><li>"The Monroe Doctrine: A Retrospective" by John G. Schroeder, in Naval War College Review (2007)</li><li>"BRICS: A New Role in Global Governance" by Paulo Roberto de Almeida, in Brazilian Journal of Political Economy (2014)</li><li>"South-South Cooperation and the Future of Development Assistance: Mapping Actors and Options" by Bernhard Trautner, in Journal of International Development (2016)</li></ul><p>These sources may offer additional insights and perspectives on Jamaica's potential engagement with BRICS countries and the concept of South-South cooperation.</p><p> <br />#Jamaica #SouthSouthCooperation #BRICS #GlobalSouth #development #partnerships #trade #investment #technologytransfer #climatechange #regionalintegration #smallislanddevelopingstates #renewableenergy #NewDevelopmentBank #USforeignpolicy #globalgovernance #economicgrowth #sustainabledevelopment #bestpractices #collaboration #equality #mutualbenefit #institutionalobstacles #challenges #opportunities #coherence #coordination #expertise #resources<br /></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-1554883198442365252023-03-29T12:53:00.000-07:002023-03-29T12:53:22.786-07:00Gang Culture's History in Jamaica and it's link to Black American Culture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1piQ8DgUtLMgspW9HFZgn_Xpxg0gmGDx-RgoK8eBpnWi5vJMXTIMzMH_BlRsnnV0hltOsWs8HTn03J0pNm_bxJFnH8N6bIV2HpC5gDfhZ00pn2Fezjb0ge-BfpUZcqq7JoshnP48vcYdr3wFvJ_ptPj-IAK2FZSO_WdkdrT7UupTDIxuehQ/s402/5733469d-a70a-4bfb-baa2-09da45047792.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="402" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1piQ8DgUtLMgspW9HFZgn_Xpxg0gmGDx-RgoK8eBpnWi5vJMXTIMzMH_BlRsnnV0hltOsWs8HTn03J0pNm_bxJFnH8N6bIV2HpC5gDfhZ00pn2Fezjb0ge-BfpUZcqq7JoshnP48vcYdr3wFvJ_ptPj-IAK2FZSO_WdkdrT7UupTDIxuehQ/s320/5733469d-a70a-4bfb-baa2-09da45047792.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The world today is like a monstrous machine, grinding everything into a homogeneous paste, leaving no room for diversity, for culture, for individuality. This is especially true for small, struggling countries like Jamaica, where the relentless tide of globalization has washed away our cultural identity, leaving us adrift in a sea of Americanized popular culture.</p><p>For decades, Black American culture has been spreading like wildfire across the world, and Jamaica is no exception. With the advent of cable television, the internet, and other modern technologies, the global village has come into being, drawing the black diaspora closer and closer together. As a result, Jamaican culture has been supplanted and usurped by Black American music, movies, and media.<br /><br />In "Globalization, Media, and the Culture Wars in Jamaica" by Brian Moeran, the author examines the ways in which the globalization of media has influenced the culture and politics of Jamaica, particularly through the spread of cable television and the influence of American media. The article explores how American media has shaped cultural attitudes and behaviors in Jamaica and contributed to the spread of consumer culture.</p><p>Similarly, in "The Impact of Television on the Culture of Jamaica" by Gladstone Taylor, the author examines the influence of television on Jamaican culture, particularly in the 1990s when the country experienced a rapid increase in cable television access. The article discusses how American media has shaped Jamaican cultural norms and values, including attitudes towards gender roles and consumerism.</p><p> The globalization of media, including the spread of cable television
and American media, has had a significant impact on Jamaican culture and
society, particularly in the 1990s. It has been a devastating impact on Jamaica's productivity and cultural output. Our once-vibrant culture, with its rich traditions and unique heritage, has been replaced by a cookie-cutter, homogenized version of Black American culture, with all its bling and bravado, but little of the substance that made our culture great.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivmnpy63eZcVTX4r2jjU2PDz6D-PKyRVNVRfw94JGq90lGDhDCiZ9ZA_-yIxuMZWcle_Hg9bWLwAwamDEjY-tYMjoeTlaj-trwudt9FfEuxnzQ2vOcCppber2HzSEGaseex0d4MPjRjq6UsaTQ6dmKACa6D48JupadP1782Pm2AESg7d9nZw/s402/54245889-2100-40e2-a8fc-2956d5c214d8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="402" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivmnpy63eZcVTX4r2jjU2PDz6D-PKyRVNVRfw94JGq90lGDhDCiZ9ZA_-yIxuMZWcle_Hg9bWLwAwamDEjY-tYMjoeTlaj-trwudt9FfEuxnzQ2vOcCppber2HzSEGaseex0d4MPjRjq6UsaTQ6dmKACa6D48JupadP1782Pm2AESg7d9nZw/w200-h200/54245889-2100-40e2-a8fc-2956d5c214d8.jpg" width="200" /></a></p><p>There should be more concerns in civil society and government about the negative consequences of the impact of cable and U.S. media on Jamaica, particularly in relation to the potential influence on gang culture. Some scholars have argued that the portrayal of gang violence and criminal behavior in American media, particularly in movies and television shows, may contribute to the glamorization of gang culture and influence the behavior of young people in Jamaica.</p><p>For example, in "Youth and Violence in Jamaica: The Influence of Socio-Economic Factors on Perceptions of Violence" by Wendell Wallace, the author notes that the portrayal of violence in American media, particularly in rap music and movies, has contributed to the normalization of violence and the glamorization of gang culture among young people in Jamaica.</p><p>Similarly, in "The Effects of American Culture on Jamaican Youth" by Monica Stewart, the author argues that the influence of American media on Jamaican youth has contributed to the spread of gang culture and the normalization of violent behavior.</p><p>But this struggle is not new. The relationship with cultural transfer is also made by academics in the United States. Thinkers like Thomas Sowell
and Shelby Steele have long argued that cultural differences between
Black Americans and Black West Indians are real and significant. They
contend that Black West Indians in America were historically more
productive than Black Americans, and that this was due to cultural
differences rooted in their distinct histories and experiences. Thomas Sowell is an American economist and social theorist who has
written extensively on race and culture. Some of his works include "Race
and Culture: A World View" (1994) and "Black Rednecks and White
Liberals" (2005). While Shelby Steele is an American author, columnist, and documentary
filmmaker who has also written about race and culture. Some of his works
include "The Content of Our Character: A New Vision of Race In America"
(1990) and "White Guilt: How Blacks and Whites Together Destroyed the
Promise of the Civil Rights Era" (2006). <br /><br />Sowell
and Steele's theories hold true for Jamaica as well. Our unique
cultural heritage, with its fusion of African, European, and Indigenous
traditions, gave us a creative and vibrant culture that was the envy of
the world. But now, with the relentless onslaught of American popular
culture, we have lost much of what made us unique and special. In "Black Rednecks and White Liberals", Thomas Sowell argues that the persistence of cultural factors that hinder black progress can be traced back to the historical experience of African Americans. He contends that many of the negative cultural traits commonly associated with contemporary black Americans, such as a lack of education, high crime rates, and single-parent households, actually have their roots in the culture of the antebellum South.</p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>According to Sowell, the antebellum South had a distinctive culture that was characterized by violence, honor-based values, and a lack of emphasis on education and literacy. These cultural traits were brought over to the United States by white settlers from the British Isles, including Scots-Irish immigrants, who settled in the Southern colonies in large numbers. Sowell argues that this culture was adopted by many African Americans after emancipation, as they sought to assimilate into the larger society.</p><p>However, Sowell contends that this culture was not well-suited to the challenges of modern society, and that it has contributed to the persistent poverty and social dysfunction that continues to afflict many black Americans today. He argues that the solution to this problem lies in recognizing the historical roots of these cultural factors, and working to replace them with more productive and adaptive cultural traits.<br /><br />To compound these academic arguments, consider that the FBI's actions under COINTELPRO had a negative impact on Black culture in America. By targeting Black political organizations and activists, the FBI undermined the efforts of the Black community to fight for their rights and equality. This, in turn, contributed to a climate of fear and mistrust between the Black community and law enforcement, which has persisted to this day. Additionally, the FBI's actions helped to perpetuate negative stereotypes and stigmas about Black activists and organizations, which has had a lasting impact on how Black activism and culture are perceived in American society.</p><div class="flex justify-between"><div class="text-gray-400 flex self-end lg:self-center justify-center mt-2 gap-3 md:gap-4 lg:gap-1 lg:absolute lg:top-0 lg:translate-x-full lg:right-0 lg:mt-0 lg:pl-2 visible">So even when there are attempts at redeeming and repairing the negative aspects of black culture it is befuddle by outside cultures. But the FBI isn't the only agency to muddle in black cultural affairs. There is also the CIA, but where as in the FBI tends to be domestically oriented and focus on the USA, the CIA has been the arm of USA's interference overseas and the police of it's foreign policy.<br /><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>It would be hard to argue that there aren't certainly some similarities between the actions of the FBI and the CIA in terms of their impact on Black communities and activism. Like the FBI, the CIA has a history of involvement in domestic surveillance and intelligence gathering, often with a focus on political dissidents and civil rights organizations. For example, the CIA's Operation CHAOS was a secret domestic surveillance program that monitored anti-war activists and other political dissidents in the 1960s and 1970s.</p><p>However, the CIA's operations are primarily focused on foreign intelligence and covert actions, and as such, their impact on domestic Black activism may not be as direct as that of the FBI. That being said, the CIA's involvement in various foreign conflicts and interventions has certainly had an impact on Black communities both in the US and abroad. For example, the CIA's support for anti-communist forces in Africa during the Cold War led to the destabilization of many African nations, which in turn had a negative impact on Black communities in those countries.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhYfLpBYM1OEJOcu2FkqBWfwp3AXdzq2j16gzeDBPcBUYmhllg05E2B7O1gSuixq3g6KO6lbigbhPR1pX58P-8uFm4G0zhCAbIXTwxvNtjO6ygT_chQIGNhtEg5LLqk281kRcJWNqty2R_5lrhS402QQTH15mJsFynlWxp6JyhqdDA5qTkA/s742/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2010-53-02%20edward%20seaga%20cia%20-%20Google%20Search.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="252" data-original-width="742" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhYfLpBYM1OEJOcu2FkqBWfwp3AXdzq2j16gzeDBPcBUYmhllg05E2B7O1gSuixq3g6KO6lbigbhPR1pX58P-8uFm4G0zhCAbIXTwxvNtjO6ygT_chQIGNhtEg5LLqk281kRcJWNqty2R_5lrhS402QQTH15mJsFynlWxp6JyhqdDA5qTkA/w400-h136/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2010-53-02%20edward%20seaga%20cia%20-%20Google%20Search.png" width="400" /></a></div>Gang violence has been a persistent problem in Black American communities since the early 20th century, with the emergence of notorious street gangs such as the Bloods and the Crips in the 1960s and 1970s. These gangs primarily originated in Los Angeles, California, and their activities and influence have since spread throughout the United States.<p></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p>On the other hand, gang violence in Jamaica gained prominence in the 1970s, with the emergence of politically affiliated gangs such as the Shower Posse and the Spanglers. While gang activity in Jamaica may have begun earlier, it was not until the 1970s that it became a widespread and visible problem.<br /><br />"Gang Violence in the Caribbean: Understanding the Current State of Affairs" by Randy Seepersad and Ryan Lee discusses the prevalence of gang violence in the Caribbean region and its impact on social and economic development. The article highlights the transnational nature of gang activity and notes that many gangs in the Caribbean have links to gangs in the United States.</p><p>Similarly, "Transnational Gangs in the Caribbean: Assessing the Threat to the United States" by Robert Bunker and John Sullivan examines the connections between gangs in the Caribbean and the United States, including the role of drug trafficking and the impact of gang violence on local communities.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxMhI_MpXxyGK86n6vmMQCZ-fhbYGDQsAOi4iEqrnlfK-L0D0cMdcSfDOBR713epFXdZ5GYCO_vFGCmgDmHB42Mv99vfKOCnQGJZBhBzC8IjAkgCJ4yza6jai8UJotSNGIvlWCNKnraqrklL6mmiJ1AH6M9G33vJh8qW9B-7gFmeL0KjFZw/s544/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2014-16-54%20ChatGPT.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="544" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxMhI_MpXxyGK86n6vmMQCZ-fhbYGDQsAOi4iEqrnlfK-L0D0cMdcSfDOBR713epFXdZ5GYCO_vFGCmgDmHB42Mv99vfKOCnQGJZBhBzC8IjAkgCJ4yza6jai8UJotSNGIvlWCNKnraqrklL6mmiJ1AH6M9G33vJh8qW9B-7gFmeL0KjFZw/w400-h344/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2014-16-54%20ChatGPT.png" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Music has played a significant role in gang culture, particularly in terms of identity formation and expression. Gang members often use music as a means of expressing their experiences and perspectives, and to assert their identity as members of a particular gang or community. In this sense, music can be seen as a way for gang members to communicate their values, beliefs, and experiences to others.</p><p>Hip hop and rap music have roots in Jamaica's reggae and dancehall
music, which played a significant role in their development. During the
1970s, Jamaican sound systems and DJs popularized the practice of
"toasting," a style of rhythmic chanting or talking over a beat, which
became a precursor to rap music. So you see, music has also been an important part of cultural exchange between different communities, including those associated with gang culture. For example, the influence of Jamaican music on hip hop and rap has been a significant aspect of the cultural exchange between Black American and Jamaican communities. This exchange has not only impacted the development of music, but has also influenced fashion, language, and other aspects of popular culture.</p><p>At the same time, music has also been used as a tool for promoting violence and aggression within gang culture. Some gangs use music to promote their violent activities, to intimidate rivals, or to assert their dominance over certain neighborhoods. This can have a negative impact on the broader community, contributing to a culture of fear and violence. <br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRqaar840sz6EzoyHHfHh7noUSzbHANf9OhM2CZFtdoo8bWRQsMpWhGoVxMjIVeEfIHlyWyi3sCMFOWt9aFXRYSI0dbmLVkiSWZyefzmAeaKImNTh5v5dH3QF7e_nxfzj-GPmbI8p_VjH1RnZLBmitlTOeTqf9YX118C1JbgOlLHfPYSBkA/s712/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-30-25%20edward%20seaga%20cia%20-%20Google%20Search.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="299" data-original-width="712" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRqaar840sz6EzoyHHfHh7noUSzbHANf9OhM2CZFtdoo8bWRQsMpWhGoVxMjIVeEfIHlyWyi3sCMFOWt9aFXRYSI0dbmLVkiSWZyefzmAeaKImNTh5v5dH3QF7e_nxfzj-GPmbI8p_VjH1RnZLBmitlTOeTqf9YX118C1JbgOlLHfPYSBkA/w400-h168/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-30-25%20edward%20seaga%20cia%20-%20Google%20Search.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>The links between Black American and Jamaican gang violence, particularly in terms of the drug trade have only gotten more intricate with time. Some Jamaican gangs have established drug trafficking networks in the United States, which have resulted in violent conflicts with Black American gangs over control of drug territory. Additionally, there have been instances of Black American gangs collaborating with Jamaican gangs in drug trafficking operations.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ech35SiytF8vq9R9q5A05Bcyt24DpeSR-uF5Tek6o2GU88ZnQvZW8OUjBQfK6l3XlCrROaD8c0tsTHoVao66y8mFEpYkZWr8fKq6jso3LqWInFcWPCPDvYP3ILAsqgxqcR7bIlFvXMJCUUE2481iFx_ayOQaKLo0Pfz4jo2Lu0s2hEbqAQ/s531/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-04-56%20Jamaican%20Greats%20-%20Google%20Books.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="209" data-original-width="531" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ech35SiytF8vq9R9q5A05Bcyt24DpeSR-uF5Tek6o2GU88ZnQvZW8OUjBQfK6l3XlCrROaD8c0tsTHoVao66y8mFEpYkZWr8fKq6jso3LqWInFcWPCPDvYP3ILAsqgxqcR7bIlFvXMJCUUE2481iFx_ayOQaKLo0Pfz4jo2Lu0s2hEbqAQ/w400-h158/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-04-56%20Jamaican%20Greats%20-%20Google%20Books.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>The impact of this cultural shift is evident in the decline of our cultural output and productivity. According to a report by the Jamaica Observer, the country's music industry has been in decline for years, with fewer and fewer Jamaican artists achieving international success. This is in stark contrast to the 1970s and 80s, when Jamaican music was a global phenomenon, with artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Jimmy Cliff taking the world by storm.<br /></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEF5KQAZxzH8TUPvUal8bDWkQqIIZZeiyaQ8eLlxzwke4uGAsecNDSIDWTva1iqIAx0QKXs2W4dkgmTgb8x7cJuEBeHJQ_IJ8eOxXJKMkcKVIbCM8c4Qw1ZONFjpPPxWQLpi3ojbBs1oGzHfMQUv7m5M718DHkzD1Hru2Y4p57kwVtABEbHQ/s597/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-35-35%20The%20English%20Riots%20of%202011%20-%20Google%20Books.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="264" data-original-width="597" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEF5KQAZxzH8TUPvUal8bDWkQqIIZZeiyaQ8eLlxzwke4uGAsecNDSIDWTva1iqIAx0QKXs2W4dkgmTgb8x7cJuEBeHJQ_IJ8eOxXJKMkcKVIbCM8c4Qw1ZONFjpPPxWQLpi3ojbBs1oGzHfMQUv7m5M718DHkzD1Hru2Y4p57kwVtABEbHQ/w400-h178/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-35-35%20The%20English%20Riots%20of%202011%20-%20Google%20Books.png" width="400" /></a><br /></div><p><br />But it's not just our music industry that is suffering. Jamaica's film industry, once a vibrant and creative force, has also been in decline in recent years. As the American film industry continues to dominate global box office, Jamaican filmmakers struggle to find an audience for their work.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-GtTL7we0aKri897c3-2PS_5khWlYF27sBVGaraNeIe2F-DDhPY04EcwxtLgdrO7YJYrZ_39rlC0Wb-tnukgBRGGT9BFtj5OHg76_xck_33lM2ShPtNAANdnwzK8kX1Q_2RmZE9PigFN8HRDUILCKmFrGJ-C7q3AvaCF05HPxeTV9jjWpA/s519/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-07-42%20Jamaican%20Greats%20-%20Google%20Books.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="519" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-GtTL7we0aKri897c3-2PS_5khWlYF27sBVGaraNeIe2F-DDhPY04EcwxtLgdrO7YJYrZ_39rlC0Wb-tnukgBRGGT9BFtj5OHg76_xck_33lM2ShPtNAANdnwzK8kX1Q_2RmZE9PigFN8HRDUILCKmFrGJ-C7q3AvaCF05HPxeTV9jjWpA/w400-h381/Screenshot%202023-03-28%20at%2011-07-42%20Jamaican%20Greats%20-%20Google%20Books.png" width="400" /></a></div><p><br />This decline in productivity and cultural output is not inevitable, nor is it irreversible. But it will require a concerted effort by the Jamaican people to reclaim our cultural heritage, to embrace what makes us unique and special, and to resist the homogenizing forces of globalization.<br /><br />As Arundhati Roy famously said, "Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing." It's time for Jamaica to join that world, to reclaim our cultural identity, and to breathe new life into our creative and vibrant culture.</p><br /><p> </p><p> #gangculture #historyofgangs #yakuza #ItalianMafia #IrishMob
#RussianBratva #AfricanAmericanGangs #BlackPower #Crips #Bloods
#drugcartels #LatinAmericanGangs #violence #criminalactivity
#culturaltransfer #marginalizedcommunities #socialconditions
#economicconditions #politicalconditions <br /></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-15164473917344584982023-03-21T11:46:00.001-07:002023-03-21T11:46:36.439-07:00Petition: Bob Marley Statue in Montego Bay Harbour or Bay AreaI Have a dream... or I dreamt rather, that there was a monumental statue of Bob Marley in the Monteg Bay harbour... or Bay area. think this dream would be great to bring to reality. This is why I am throwing it out there into the universe!
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jXHNBKBhIQmN2QGrwnnrJIZCTVwSTZ8t2GtpA0U9BVSEyGpHCU71JEyHt4j-nt3CP0TbewJ1h97vXJG3MkNSdWlVuKJYx1hVccJ_rniRPqzaFK8zuLlq-jXBcGXdjh4TIoFTePUXtaXmplWcXfIb7IxI8VwIA3Jl5UgOipEorZ5jeu9CRg/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-01-02%2021.45.55%20-%20colossal%20statue%20of%20bob%20marley%20out%20in%20Montego%20Bay%20Harbour.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jXHNBKBhIQmN2QGrwnnrJIZCTVwSTZ8t2GtpA0U9BVSEyGpHCU71JEyHt4j-nt3CP0TbewJ1h97vXJG3MkNSdWlVuKJYx1hVccJ_rniRPqzaFK8zuLlq-jXBcGXdjh4TIoFTePUXtaXmplWcXfIb7IxI8VwIA3Jl5UgOipEorZ5jeu9CRg/w200-h200/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-01-02%2021.45.55%20-%20colossal%20statue%20of%20bob%20marley%20out%20in%20Montego%20Bay%20Harbour.png" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6e6MzMOjhlEO73jUbx-XfxiixrYSO92k9p7Iig7ryphjLDKm22oMp0MRoaLlckgsE52o5LZNUVVjFI2F6kDiWNSkVQjieqWNh0Adu86TGPrxVsy5xl5zxR-Nf6A6kpmKE6Orhrtyu6aZcMJTqG0beySt5X4LhuMK9DjoSm5_9x6bBmCKzg/s2048/136511007_4910233929049833_8763792047761872122_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1526" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6e6MzMOjhlEO73jUbx-XfxiixrYSO92k9p7Iig7ryphjLDKm22oMp0MRoaLlckgsE52o5LZNUVVjFI2F6kDiWNSkVQjieqWNh0Adu86TGPrxVsy5xl5zxR-Nf6A6kpmKE6Orhrtyu6aZcMJTqG0beySt5X4LhuMK9DjoSm5_9x6bBmCKzg/w149-h200/136511007_4910233929049833_8763792047761872122_n.jpg" width="149" /></a></div><p>Montego Bay, Jamaica, the land of warm sunshine, white sandy beaches, and reggae music. It is a place that has long been associated with the iconic musician Bob Marley, who has left an indelible mark on the world with his soulful and uplifting music. Marley's legacy has transcended generations, and his music has become a symbol of hope, love, and unity for people all over the world. It is time to honor him with a monumental statue in the Montego Bay harbor. Don't you think so? It's not like they're in a rush to make him a national hero. We got to do something!<br /></p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PYklEuJGtp2zUH05vk29FliA09xHZFUL0VfSIQJtQ3-7eUKmvCzLzcsrQvet0WEsYB7nb3HECH357HXFfxn9diCP3e6fMWgmIK3Vun1XQu4GnwHIMHWJ8hAuZgDuWatcXbtZ094Qhzlhw2SeNLSP_AzU8W150dlAIFGxwxroUqiloSqkWQ/s512/PHOTO-2023-01-16-09-55-17.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="502" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PYklEuJGtp2zUH05vk29FliA09xHZFUL0VfSIQJtQ3-7eUKmvCzLzcsrQvet0WEsYB7nb3HECH357HXFfxn9diCP3e6fMWgmIK3Vun1XQu4GnwHIMHWJ8hAuZgDuWatcXbtZ094Qhzlhw2SeNLSP_AzU8W150dlAIFGxwxroUqiloSqkWQ/s320/PHOTO-2023-01-16-09-55-17.jpg" width="314" /></a><br /><br />The statue of Bob Marley would serve as a national project that stimulates job creation and fosters national pride. It would also bolster tourism and increase the number of ships coming into the harbor just to see our Liberty-esque statute of Bob Marley, thus boosting the local economy. Imagine it being visible from maybe as far as Sandy Bay in Hanover. The statue would be a visual representation of the man who has become an international icon, an ambassador of Jamaica's music and culture.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlDTZvjXeJ2qh6HI-U-zfZfBA4oUomnNlgKZb7NVprUAdfzG1U8wzFY1MaaSn5hMAo1IVZ23O035GCsEaUV93gaLvoDGXrNvWUPRTOMRhb9KcPRa3DLEDBxcc1qX-CQICTFFkvpHqoW5BtnuOiZ3IVPTjElwlW53btqOBKHBWu4ndX3mgtA/s375/d2e461ad-e00c-410f-9522-7648bea02849.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlDTZvjXeJ2qh6HI-U-zfZfBA4oUomnNlgKZb7NVprUAdfzG1U8wzFY1MaaSn5hMAo1IVZ23O035GCsEaUV93gaLvoDGXrNvWUPRTOMRhb9KcPRa3DLEDBxcc1qX-CQICTFFkvpHqoW5BtnuOiZ3IVPTjElwlW53btqOBKHBWu4ndX3mgtA/s320/d2e461ad-e00c-410f-9522-7648bea02849.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p></p><p>The statue would be a symbol of Marley's commitment to social justice and his message of peace and unity. It would inspire visitors to learn more about Jamaica's history and culture, and it would serve as a beacon of hope for the local community. The statue would be a place for people to gather, to celebrate, and to remember the man who brought joy and hope to millions of people around the world.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxMcPPV4NBk5QxIKsASsePGRbGJF8CzsuYUsT3dqxgSqE1YROed6P5t8TsebKzfYi0t1jA2BKw1NxwpDCU0-oAUTEuv1nMZti7aFZVQSue_L6L48eyxrSaFaS2J7D-Np9E9VtPqLjVnGqYXNI_1b6LOqM7tsH4Ct_daok6bTFIRNjmTfip4w/s1024/yahnyk_Montego_Bay_Jamaica_Futuristic_Wakanda_with_a_statue_of__0e951d28-0c67-439a-b637-475f727fd7b0.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxMcPPV4NBk5QxIKsASsePGRbGJF8CzsuYUsT3dqxgSqE1YROed6P5t8TsebKzfYi0t1jA2BKw1NxwpDCU0-oAUTEuv1nMZti7aFZVQSue_L6L48eyxrSaFaS2J7D-Np9E9VtPqLjVnGqYXNI_1b6LOqM7tsH4Ct_daok6bTFIRNjmTfip4w/s320/yahnyk_Montego_Bay_Jamaica_Futuristic_Wakanda_with_a_statue_of__0e951d28-0c67-439a-b637-475f727fd7b0.png" width="320" /></a> <br /></p><p></p><p>The idea of a monumental statue of Bob Marley in Montego Bay's harbor is more than just a symbol of national pride; it is a testament to Jamaica's rich cultural legacy and a beacon for tourism and trade. The statue would be Jamaica's colossus of Rhodes, akin to the Jesus statue in Brazil, the Statue of Liberty in New York, and the Renaissance Monuments in Senegal and Burkina Faso.<br /></p><p></p><p>This statue would not just be grand for grandeur's sake; it would be a celebration of our human capital and intelligence. As Marcus Garvey and Friedrich Nietzsche both believed, "Art is the highest form of expression of the human intelligence; without art, one's civilization is not complete." This statue would be the embodiment of our collective cultural identity and creativity, culminating in one magnificent piece of art. Like the Sphinx, Obelisks, and Stella of old, this statue would stand the test of time and be a testament to our civilization for millennia to come.<br /></p><p></p><p>Beyond the cultural significance, the statue would also serve as a job
stimulation national project, creating employment opportunities for
local artisans, architects, engineers, and builders. The project would
bolster tourism and enhance the harbor's appeal to ships from around the
world, boosting trade and the local economy. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcrPU8QjGcdk1sGuuW2q5hLoHPIUJ9y2PBVNS9C8LYh6C_P9suH1gWq3EY9A8cT4N5dnEoHBBvF3OqBHpYSsk3tWAD5AvuoNoqVyJy3HwVZun4Mf5nAae7_gKItAdMi0otnggeo7wZ-xYG2jVmCnjF10i18XnpbcfuRgdDLlypCGtDC0423Q/s375/28e34a3b-0737-411c-aab1-f8eaf95a03b9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcrPU8QjGcdk1sGuuW2q5hLoHPIUJ9y2PBVNS9C8LYh6C_P9suH1gWq3EY9A8cT4N5dnEoHBBvF3OqBHpYSsk3tWAD5AvuoNoqVyJy3HwVZun4Mf5nAae7_gKItAdMi0otnggeo7wZ-xYG2jVmCnjF10i18XnpbcfuRgdDLlypCGtDC0423Q/s320/28e34a3b-0737-411c-aab1-f8eaf95a03b9.jpg" width="320" /></a> <br /></p><p>But why Bob Marley? Why is he the right person to honor with such a monumental statue? Bob Marley's music is not just Jamaica's national treasure; it is a global phenomenon. His music has touched people from all walks of life and transcended cultural barriers. His message of love, unity, and freedom resonates with people across the globe, making him a symbol of hope and inspiration.
Furthermore, Bob Marley's legacy extends beyond his music. He was a political and cultural icon who fought for social justice and equality. His influence can still be seen today in Jamaica's vibrant Rastafarian movement and the wider global reggae community.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61FY2t86AjlfeBwWFZAzlshOBF9Fpy1vX-1tQDVjkcQcuaNm333vJTeJW40eWJsykgTZsYTMuOoXktxy6odhMNNrA8CLfpITs1iqLa8LUmmJETRkC_e9NcCVnr6bzUj__5-HH4b88K60mDjzsMFVvuKL1muI8o-gYvW08f3Dup-McXFthlQ/s375/23ea45e0-376c-4c40-8d79-cc2a670eff07.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61FY2t86AjlfeBwWFZAzlshOBF9Fpy1vX-1tQDVjkcQcuaNm333vJTeJW40eWJsykgTZsYTMuOoXktxy6odhMNNrA8CLfpITs1iqLa8LUmmJETRkC_e9NcCVnr6bzUj__5-HH4b88K60mDjzsMFVvuKL1muI8o-gYvW08f3Dup-McXFthlQ/s320/23ea45e0-376c-4c40-8d79-cc2a670eff07.jpg" width="320" /></a> <br /></p><p>A monumental statue of Bob Marley in Montego Bay's harbor would be a fitting tribute to this cultural icon and an emblem of Jamaica's rich cultural heritage. It would serve as a rallying point for national pride, stimulate employment, and enhance tourism and trade. It is an idea worth pursuing, not just for the short-term benefits but for the lasting legacy it would leave for future generations to come. Marley's music was a reflection of his personal beliefs and his dedication to social justice. He believed in the power of music to bring people together and to inspire change. He used his platform to speak out against oppression and to call for unity and peace. His music has transcended borders and cultures, and it has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for people all over the world. What more do I need to say to make the case more, clear, more real, more necessary?</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVU96x59sA9sQ0ROUik1CnmpPuiSMeEVSLoyflp_J9oWvKkI8m4rnA-LRXwoAtu9W04Hnz1S7O42Q2n9dAkLvtNlgMGcFL0XdW4XiQ254QnoYFNZd_HaBrl7a4r-WNJh0WRFobPc-c-5cm1jjKGfx4hsQDVgJ6snZeB_g20ZCVt5c5iELjA/s375/849b0b04-37e9-4981-b126-61c66ad68255.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVU96x59sA9sQ0ROUik1CnmpPuiSMeEVSLoyflp_J9oWvKkI8m4rnA-LRXwoAtu9W04Hnz1S7O42Q2n9dAkLvtNlgMGcFL0XdW4XiQ254QnoYFNZd_HaBrl7a4r-WNJh0WRFobPc-c-5cm1jjKGfx4hsQDVgJ6snZeB_g20ZCVt5c5iELjA/s320/849b0b04-37e9-4981-b126-61c66ad68255.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><br />The statue would be a tribute to the man who brought Jamaica's music and culture to the world stage. It would be a testament to the power of music to transcend language, borders, and cultures. It would be a symbol of hope for the future, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we can find inspiration and hope in the beauty of music and the human spirit.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAfwuqsnt8gjlwDKS-SdvJtccDyo6OE-HsOBmrteGvTl-Nm1qeNv8fogm4wMOSII_iFwYNLyYt9VC9utK9Cvk7t5qNhn0iFyh0VTlX4GvHlS0rydzfpTcLb4gCgAlwjxrfrfCFVmc_Q_phXi9tCVGwg5Man0SKg3tAyXId_wuzIW4Mz0ZjQ/s375/0a968fd4-754a-44b8-a919-c6a5be99d8b4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAfwuqsnt8gjlwDKS-SdvJtccDyo6OE-HsOBmrteGvTl-Nm1qeNv8fogm4wMOSII_iFwYNLyYt9VC9utK9Cvk7t5qNhn0iFyh0VTlX4GvHlS0rydzfpTcLb4gCgAlwjxrfrfCFVmc_Q_phXi9tCVGwg5Man0SKg3tAyXId_wuzIW4Mz0ZjQ/s320/0a968fd4-754a-44b8-a919-c6a5be99d8b4.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />In conclusion, the erection of a monumental statue of Bob Marley in the Montego Bay harbor or on one of its Bogue islands would be a powerful symbol of Jamaica's music, culture, and history. It would stimulate job creation, foster national pride, and bolster tourism, all while honoring the legacy of one of the world's most beloved musicians. It would be a tribute to the power of music to bring people together, to inspire change, and to bring hope to millions of people around the world. Let us come together and make this vision a reality, for the sake of our community, our country, and our world.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhSNybcjwmxnXJ9oyCVYy1dJNZszNmWpfU8pYp23i_EQ_xg2AWyLOvvyKunjctwYBF0kAMFRPMNz8pWais6GdmY8lWDHGbQ9IiL2wa2joGKmQ8AcxL0pGoFosV2SAeVdJXpT_ISFh9Zhd7qMAIuDd9o0mh9aE3b3CZ53N7PR4Ub796-B5XQ/s375/816cb507-7754-4c06-a123-2eaa37dd9311.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhSNybcjwmxnXJ9oyCVYy1dJNZszNmWpfU8pYp23i_EQ_xg2AWyLOvvyKunjctwYBF0kAMFRPMNz8pWais6GdmY8lWDHGbQ9IiL2wa2joGKmQ8AcxL0pGoFosV2SAeVdJXpT_ISFh9Zhd7qMAIuDd9o0mh9aE3b3CZ53N7PR4Ub796-B5XQ/s320/816cb507-7754-4c06-a123-2eaa37dd9311.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>#BobMarleyStatue #MontegoBayHarbour #BayArea #Jamaica #MusicLegend #ReggaeKing #OneLove #Petition #CulturalIcon<br /></div><p></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-22150647387913454692023-03-16T17:10:00.005-07:002023-03-18T13:36:03.661-07:00On Being an Blerd in Western Jamaica<p style="text-align: left;"></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">What is a Blerd?</h4><p>A "blerd" is a slang term that combines the words "black" and "nerd." It is often used to refer to a black person who is passionate about science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) fields, or who is a fan of traditionally "nerdy" things like comic books, video games, and science fiction. As one might imagine in an age where many Jamaicans have taken on "Dunce" as their moniker, being a nerd in some instances can be frowned upon or make one a pariah of sorts.<br /><br />It can lead to odd social situations. I remember being on a corner full of young smokers and we were calling an instance of a woman beating a man and I said "she discombobulate him," the crowd went silent till one young man bravely came forth saying "Rasta mi nah go pretend yah but mi nuh know wah dat mean, and me think me a nuh the only one.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOyjScNLvudjQ6TDFkDb0tNjKf7Lzv6tsRduvXUg0mL55xpo2rPePAS9uFP21qx14tiKkjleGq5_F1TGNJBwnaMmsnBp8gbAZbVW27JutOTdR1McxfcB5ax4XAGd6hpz8RgdJkxvAXN8CbXy9H3B-01Khoc4yQzhvkaJqCRSMkURbsJhyxA/s515/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-33-46%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOyjScNLvudjQ6TDFkDb0tNjKf7Lzv6tsRduvXUg0mL55xpo2rPePAS9uFP21qx14tiKkjleGq5_F1TGNJBwnaMmsnBp8gbAZbVW27JutOTdR1McxfcB5ax4XAGd6hpz8RgdJkxvAXN8CbXy9H3B-01Khoc4yQzhvkaJqCRSMkURbsJhyxA/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-33-46%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" /></a><br /><br />In Jamaica, as in a lot of places, black children are allowed to ignore the interests and accomplishments of the black adults around them, and to focus their admiration on white folk (am just being honest). Being a blerd in Jamaica is a paradoxical experience, as the country has a rich cultural heritage and a strong tradition of education and academic achievement. Jamaica is home to many successful scientists, engineers, and mathematicians, and the country has a vibrant community of people who are passionate about STEM subjects. Yet this is not advertised, promoted or trumpeted and the stereotype of Jamaica being a land for the hewers of wood and drawers of water, or sun, sand and sex, or track stars and reggae stars, when we are so much more.<br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Being a Blerd in Jamaica</h4><p>Growing up in Jamaica, I often felt like I didn't quite fit in with my peers. Like many of my friends, I was interested in sports and music, but seemed to distinguish me from them in my own mind was that I was also very drawn to science fiction, fantasy, and technology. Probably inherited from my father. He would buy me astronomy books and discusses Pleiades, Orion, Betelguese and show me Saturn and Jupiter through his telescope. I would spend hours immerse in his National Geographics and perusing the past, pondering Mesopotamia and such. But I digress... It was this intense romance with science and even current events and world affairs that sometimes made me feel like an outsider, that layered with imbibing Bob Marley to Bob Dylan, the trippy surreal sounds of reggae created an interesting mental tapestry... but over time, I came to embrace my love of nerdy pursuits and to celebrate the unique perspective that being a Blerd brought to my life. At key points like this X-men and The Chrysalids really hit home.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDpcaBYxp5Yt9WF7PwK5AjFY-a7lv-lNkfNN9oj1l75GqnX1TXquzTnngAEy0lrPItL6EwcGV-B-M9lc1X0jFhZ4COeg-Vq1AKCJh98OnWNeBW_4HjFA1WilaNRGCv-68yzjfJX7ZusZbPtlFr3cjF1ESjCK6gXFLmNJEYufoWfr6Ly-V5Yg/s515/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-28-54%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDpcaBYxp5Yt9WF7PwK5AjFY-a7lv-lNkfNN9oj1l75GqnX1TXquzTnngAEy0lrPItL6EwcGV-B-M9lc1X0jFhZ4COeg-Vq1AKCJh98OnWNeBW_4HjFA1WilaNRGCv-68yzjfJX7ZusZbPtlFr3cjF1ESjCK6gXFLmNJEYufoWfr6Ly-V5Yg/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-28-54%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" /></a> <br /><br />I can't speak for every household in Jamaica but I grew up in the crossfire of intellectual battles on Sunday evening. When the religious in the family would battle the atheists and the philosophers. Sometimes it would politics at the crux of the debate other times there would be just linguistic showing off and semantic pageantry as the members in the family versed in Spanish would match wits with the dictionary aficionados and the clique schooled in Latin. It was a vocabulary ego show, with dissecting of etymology, Greek prefixes and the nuances of pronunciation.<br /><br />It's really easy to feel different in Jamaica, because the country is so different from what you see of Jamaica on television. Also the world outside of Jamaica on television seemed so different from Jamaica too. One of the challenges of being a Blerd in Jamaica was dealing with stereotypes and misconceptions. Many people assumed and still do that because I am Black or Rastafari, I must not be interested in intellectual or academic pursuits,or speak a particular kind of way or am limited to a particular vocabulary. They would try to steer me towards more "traditional" Black interests, such as music or sports, and would sometimes mock me for my love of science fiction and technology. But times have changed.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CsLg85itKmoSQKwdmgor3BDfLCcmTZ290Rg6znGIFJ3CSDgPU7y_HFqHawVLMGPyx5sYRRS-yCl4cmR-pCvIciPdeUvhMnkouWNegD0ZbR2C8_IyH5H5d11LvbfYaFJPERrwO3pKxHckyA31AJtuKzAyUMuRXhfEHyj5VI44e4xKoIJdJg/s1754/IMG_1776.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CsLg85itKmoSQKwdmgor3BDfLCcmTZ290Rg6znGIFJ3CSDgPU7y_HFqHawVLMGPyx5sYRRS-yCl4cmR-pCvIciPdeUvhMnkouWNegD0ZbR2C8_IyH5H5d11LvbfYaFJPERrwO3pKxHckyA31AJtuKzAyUMuRXhfEHyj5VI44e4xKoIJdJg/s320/IMG_1776.JPG" /></a> <br /><br /><br />I've never been one to let these stereotypes get me down. Instead, I embraced my inner nerd and used it as a source of strength. I joined online communities of like-minded Blerds and found support and fellowship with others who shared my passions. I also began to see the value in my unique perspective and how it could be used to challenge stereotypes and push back against the narrow-minded thinking that had held me back for so long. Not only that new modes of black lifestyles (livity) and identities I believe are needed for the future, and the new black male, be he Rastafari or not must not only be physically fit, but intellectually agile and creative.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2XMS5DI5p_biUCX08eAUbyoMizrvOu1w924Tj32dkHub61ETl4rtAoIfZuDrgIS1qH5PbGy_Y4RfPPiX_5o_Cl58pRCI3CTDYlSfY6gAbNHvCbLcP7nrJqvTVMv9T9PybhyoIhdL2eI8rq_ZbigOHDuJOTbEUd36tRTV5zK34BxjFYVIEA/s1754/IMG_1975.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2XMS5DI5p_biUCX08eAUbyoMizrvOu1w924Tj32dkHub61ETl4rtAoIfZuDrgIS1qH5PbGy_Y4RfPPiX_5o_Cl58pRCI3CTDYlSfY6gAbNHvCbLcP7nrJqvTVMv9T9PybhyoIhdL2eI8rq_ZbigOHDuJOTbEUd36tRTV5zK34BxjFYVIEA/s320/IMG_1975.JPG" /></a><br /><br />As I grew older and entered college, I found that being a Blerd was actually an advantage. I was able to connect with a diverse group of people and to learn from their different experiences and backgrounds. I also found that my love of science fiction and technology gave me a unique perspective on the world and allowed me to think creatively about problems and solutions.<br /><br />Conversely being a blerd in Jamaica has it's downsides as there is a facet of our culture that is very suspicious of intelligence and views it as a threat. "Think yuh a go use yuh big brain pon me an twist me up!" Yes, Jamaica which has a culture of "bandooloo","Anansyism" compounded a fierce and competitive sense of oneupmanship. So being smart in a lot of environments is perceived as a threat, from the workplace to the streets, and especially in the world of scamming.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho__5lpo0r3OV8wMlk2t4Lv35WslJFu1VbanbQw7oBElhZMZaf0oWmb8gIgolDPulr2houTGPzEZtXcsSHt4qTCV8sC9KSNv6IHjWwADHBJQcS_zXHBwdg7KJgaFc5vkcgicE1dD92avqFLNVUHpMv9u_3Opbk0xYv3NsUvAADjlfd-OYV7Q/s514/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-23-42%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho__5lpo0r3OV8wMlk2t4Lv35WslJFu1VbanbQw7oBElhZMZaf0oWmb8gIgolDPulr2houTGPzEZtXcsSHt4qTCV8sC9KSNv6IHjWwADHBJQcS_zXHBwdg7KJgaFc5vkcgicE1dD92avqFLNVUHpMv9u_3Opbk0xYv3NsUvAADjlfd-OYV7Q/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-23-42%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" /></a><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Blerdism Today</h4><p>Despite some of the negative aspects of being a blerd, it seems there are good times ahead for blerds in Jamaica, there are many opportunities to pursue their interests and connect with like-minded individuals. The country has a number of science and technology organizations, including the Jamaican Association of Science and Technology (JAST), the Jamaican Association of Engineers (JAE), and the Jamaica Computer Society (JCS). These organizations host events and workshops, and provide support and resources for people interested in STEM fields. <br /><br />Not only are there academic avenues for blerds but fun activities too. When I was in high school and University I dreamt of visiting a comic convention. I'd hope that maybe I'd be in the states one of those summers I went and there would be one near by. It never happened, but my daughter is an anime junkie and guess what there was an AnimeCon... of course I had to take her. It was one of the proudest moments of my life that I connected so well, carried her to where she wanted to be and in a space in Jamaica where she can get a tiny tiny glimpse of Japan and Japanese culture of which she is also a fan. I am not into Anime, am a fan of the old schools... Marvel and DC and as of late lots of Image and independent comics.<br /><br />In addition to these organizations, there are also a number of schools and universities in Jamaica that offer programs in science, technology, engineering, and math. For example, the University of Technology, Jamaica offers a range of programs in these fields, including computer science, electrical engineering, and mathematics. The University of the West Indies also has a strong focus on STEM subjects, with programs in engineering, computer science, and mathematics.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcs66eApr4q0G1dRPbmVTyxiVRsPJzPuRctmarhZRWfQA1Nvz54WSus1ibWfp3jBb1AtgWebjUluEt1Ec7CLj07kmq9qmmTwuvmkTYYOpRgU9Qhkvx3FKZ_hlMljr6FjDOXnSAe3cUXLvH4YNrIdJUjJx-GfPcyJaPWfr-kL9nDhUS_U36Rw/s570/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-24-09%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcs66eApr4q0G1dRPbmVTyxiVRsPJzPuRctmarhZRWfQA1Nvz54WSus1ibWfp3jBb1AtgWebjUluEt1Ec7CLj07kmq9qmmTwuvmkTYYOpRgU9Qhkvx3FKZ_hlMljr6FjDOXnSAe3cUXLvH4YNrIdJUjJx-GfPcyJaPWfr-kL9nDhUS_U36Rw/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-24-09%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" /></a><br /><br />These days Jamaica has many high schools with robotics clubs. In the earlier part of 2000 there was a JaLinux user group I used to be in regular contact with. Poetry groups are more prominent. The space is growing. Being a blerd in Jamaica also means being part of a broader global community of people who are passionate about STEM subjects and geeky interests. Many blerds in Jamaica are active on social media and other online platforms, and there are a number of online communities and forums where blerds can connect with each other and share their interests. For example, the website BlackNerdProblems.com is a popular online destination for blerds, and there are many other online forums and communities that cater to this audience.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZ4UbqKavIzokZr6ag7hLNEWdbM8NvsOLZ78_tA_NOuIpmIFNBYjO1zgR-9xLfGtz4LVclMLNdGsxprUZobUQ_6hfSekQ0ZylALjz_im_EufgnrKFKg7p7eu8zsQV_K3Dd95AgdooQBLYGjKNqDAU8-Orc4lO_w11Dq_CRUT7xCAtkavWag/s466/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-28-11%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZ4UbqKavIzokZr6ag7hLNEWdbM8NvsOLZ78_tA_NOuIpmIFNBYjO1zgR-9xLfGtz4LVclMLNdGsxprUZobUQ_6hfSekQ0ZylALjz_im_EufgnrKFKg7p7eu8zsQV_K3Dd95AgdooQBLYGjKNqDAU8-Orc4lO_w11Dq_CRUT7xCAtkavWag/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-28-11%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" /></a> </p><p>In Jamaica, we are at a cultural crossroads, so I wont act like blerds' life is ideal or romanticized in our island as the black nerd will still often face stereotypes and misconceptions about what it means to be black and nerdy. Some may think that being a blerd means you are not "black enough" that you are not fully invested in your culture. But even as the nation schisms and waxes and wanes from choppers, dunce and scammers to black excellence, it is still worth noting that being a blerd means celebrating both your blackness and your nerdy interests, and not having to choose one over the other.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnOPJhZFj26Kd9VhuLwBw9J651feZfK1ulcZhpewmGBJl_MTwAZ3TQpI_17oOsp-rXHrWlqg0lkGQYygRDeZaVu3ZFq3yOaq2uYhG_Tvq6Q_cGuM-WDb-17xD3nfmQr08U4JKI2ey8UERmYU36QeiaOva9z9Uu45uicnBs4kYNpKRsO65Rg/s515/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-30-11%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnOPJhZFj26Kd9VhuLwBw9J651feZfK1ulcZhpewmGBJl_MTwAZ3TQpI_17oOsp-rXHrWlqg0lkGQYygRDeZaVu3ZFq3yOaq2uYhG_Tvq6Q_cGuM-WDb-17xD3nfmQr08U4JKI2ey8UERmYU36QeiaOva9z9Uu45uicnBs4kYNpKRsO65Rg/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-30-11%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" /></a><br /><br />Overall, being a blerd in our modern society can be a rewarding and enriching experience. The country has a strong tradition of academic excellence, if we as a people are able to embrace both our black heritage and unleash in our youth the love of all things nerdy, from science fiction and fantasy to video games and technology, we will definitely secure our place in the future of mankind. Being a blerd in our nation can also give you an esteem boost and sense of belonging. You become inducted into a vibrant and dynamic community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for learning and discovery. You may find support and friendship among other blerds, and you can most crucially use your unique perspective to contribute to the broader conversation about race, identity, and culture.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HTCmieHOcHLPUxwhu7LudPJRBp2l79xy12g51MA-ocoWvGIRisC8PYskNin1PApAVyvI4ho_q_n1C26yBqlMGJfvu-K29l8hehtIEnLVf4qxuSpGJDCti9IlapChg5W1I3fmqxT0fTbNzbldYsu_QEC0rWkRjHX-oe9fY_EokkNKRfUWFQ/s515/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-32-41%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HTCmieHOcHLPUxwhu7LudPJRBp2l79xy12g51MA-ocoWvGIRisC8PYskNin1PApAVyvI4ho_q_n1C26yBqlMGJfvu-K29l8hehtIEnLVf4qxuSpGJDCti9IlapChg5W1I3fmqxT0fTbNzbldYsu_QEC0rWkRjHX-oe9fY_EokkNKRfUWFQ/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-32-41%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" /></a><br /><br />Being a Blerd framed my coming of age and taught me to be proud of who I am and to never let anyone else define me. It also taught me the value of embracing my uniqueness and using it to make the world a better place. I am grateful for the experiences and challenges that being a Blerd has brought into my life and I hope to continue to use my passion and knowledge to make a positive difference in the world.<br /><br /><br /><br />#Blerd #Jamaica #WesternJamaica #GeekCulture #CaribbeanNerds #BlackNerds #Afrofuturism #BlackExcellence #NerdLife #CaribbeanGeeks #IslandGeeks #CaribbeanCulture #IslandLife #BlackCulture #BlackandNerdy #BlackGirlMagic #BlackBoyJoy #NerdCommunity #BlackExcellenceMatters #JamaicanNerds #CaribbeanBlerd #DiasporaGeeks #NerdyByNature #MelaninMagic #Afrocentric #CaribbeanCommunity</p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-54274290161191142752023-02-26T16:34:00.002-08:002023-02-26T16:34:21.901-08:00When Jamaica Is My Living Room: Ubuntu, Ujamaa, Utopia<div dir="ltr">A Soular Youniverse... A world of I and I, where each and everyone has the well being of You and I at heart! A place where everything is a labour of love and a work of heart. Yeah... that is my dream for creation. For the global village... a day when Jamaica is my living room!<br /></div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">Come bredrin and sistren and trod in the realm of imagination where we walk through the community gate and into the heart of this bustling utopia, I don't know if you are but I'm struck by the warmth and sense of togetherness that permeates the air. People are gathered in small groups, chatting, laughing, and sharing stories, while others relax on benches, sipping tea or coffee and reading books or writing poetry.</div><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>The main public space is a vibrant hub of activity, with colorful murals adorning the walls and a stage where musicians, poets, and artists perform regularly. Tonight, a group of young poets are reciting their work, their words echoing across the square and drawing a crowd of eager listeners.</p><p>As we make our way deeper into the community, we pass by a large communal garden where people are tending to the plants and harvesting fresh vegetables for dinner. The scent of fragrant herbs and flowers fills the air, and I can hear the sounds of children playing and laughing in the nearby park, can you?</p><p>As the sun begins to set, the community comes alive with the glow of soft lighting and the sound of music wafting through the air. We make my way to the communal living room, where people are gathered around cozy fires, chatting and sharing their thoughts on everything from philosophy to the latest scientific discoveries.</p><p>Dinner is a communal affair, with everyone pitching in to prepare a delicious meal made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. We dine together at a long table, enjoying the flavors of the season and the warmth of each other's company.</p><p>As the evening wears on, people begin to retire to their individual homes, each one a unique and personalized space filled with art, poetry, and cherished mementos. I settle into my cozy earth-ship home, feeling grateful for the sense of community and connection that surrounds me, and for the sense of purpose and meaning that comes from working together to create a better world for all.</p></div></div></div><span class="chatgpt-button-shared"></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p>In the early morning, before the sun rises, many in the community gather for a group yoga or Tae Kwan Do session in the nearby park. Led by elders who have practiced these traditions for decades, the sessions are an opportunity to connect with the body, the breath, and the earth, and to cultivate a sense of balance and well-being.</p><p>Throughout the day, the community prioritizes health and well-being, with a focus on locally-sourced and organic foods, holistic healing practices, and regular exercise. The elders play an important role in passing down their knowledge of natural medicine, meditation, and other healing arts to the younger generations, ensuring that these traditions continue to thrive and evolve in this techno-organic age.<br /><br />How does such a place sound? Come on I know I am not completely naive or full of shit and know somewhere on the walk you saw the potential and possibility of such a reality.<br /><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPt6NI4YgDv5p5PaRsTjl_0waR-gvZhSLzQMT6W8oY-tpKKTwsQjtyvttkyWWmjopQQBJjUi7RwdHYrLwDxcqdmvwSFVVWtsNqSayMQXZj-WR9TAkf_f25qg2-yX_jA6whko7QbT5dmYgZIDYT8xOxofyeyGKLmLOfc-Fj73AzQ3-yny3gQ/s768/stablediffrommidjournprompt.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPt6NI4YgDv5p5PaRsTjl_0waR-gvZhSLzQMT6W8oY-tpKKTwsQjtyvttkyWWmjopQQBJjUi7RwdHYrLwDxcqdmvwSFVVWtsNqSayMQXZj-WR9TAkf_f25qg2-yX_jA6whko7QbT5dmYgZIDYT8xOxofyeyGKLmLOfc-Fj73AzQ3-yny3gQ/w200-h200/stablediffrommidjournprompt.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDBbnA_hu3bFeUtdmRAaaFTb3_4lgNZRXKsDK08UkntIJkvaUdDcqjnyvAgzzYTSflX7oyzfkP8ku7I5iABTuIQ-Ck0xfRJsQ5xjibrn2x6CmWax3qAaSmVsBHI2ArlZRj5fPrvhNYmN1SC_alrqkKSZwsf3HWuaur_Q9LGyPXqza2Rlr9Cg/s402/Rukundo_modern_futuristic_house_with_garden_5_bedrooms_Africa_B_ad3f354e-0e1c-4f9e-93b9-a367d96b6aff-removebg-preview.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="402" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDBbnA_hu3bFeUtdmRAaaFTb3_4lgNZRXKsDK08UkntIJkvaUdDcqjnyvAgzzYTSflX7oyzfkP8ku7I5iABTuIQ-Ck0xfRJsQ5xjibrn2x6CmWax3qAaSmVsBHI2ArlZRj5fPrvhNYmN1SC_alrqkKSZwsf3HWuaur_Q9LGyPXqza2Rlr9Cg/s320/Rukundo_modern_futuristic_house_with_garden_5_bedrooms_Africa_B_ad3f354e-0e1c-4f9e-93b9-a367d96b6aff-removebg-preview.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>As Bob Marley once sang, "Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing gonna be all right." In my dream world, Jamaica is my living room - a communal family where everyone is treated equally, and where money is outdated. Instead, we share the resources of our planet, working together to make the world a better place for all.</p><p>You may say that I'm a dreamer, but idealism can have a profound impact on the world. I envision a world where we are all part of one big community - a Star Trek-like humanity where people are given jobs and roles based on merit, and where we all live in harmony with each other and with nature.</p><p>In my dream world, we are all outdoor Bedouin academics and shamans, constantly exploring the mysteries of the universe and sharing our findings with each other. We pour our spirit into challenging and exploring the unknown and great beyond, pushing the boundaries of what we know and what we can achieve.</p><p>But this isn't just a dream - it's a future that is within our grasp. By embracing Ubuntu, Ujamaa, Open Source, Permaculture, EarthShips, and earthen homes, we can create a new brand of humanism that is informed by the unheard ethos of indigenous peoples, of Rastafari, of Aboriginals, and of Africans.</p><p>We can become techno-organic, not through trans-humanism, but by fusing technology and spirituality in a way that celebrates and honors our interconnections with each other and with the natural world. We can examine and re-examine our cultural and indigenous traditions for their worth, and create a new society that is harmonious, just, and sustainable.</p><p>In my dream world, we are all passengers on a spaceship hurtling through space. We understand that every living creature on Earth is our brother or sister, and we treat each other with the love, respect, and kindness that we all deserve. We are all explorers, adventurers, and dreamers, and together, we can make the world a better place for ourselves and for future generations.</p><p>As John Lennon once said, "You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one." Let's embrace our idealism and work together to create a world that is truly worthy of our dreams. Let's make Jamaica our living room, and let's make the world a better place for all.</p></div></div></div></div>
Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-34306704722341695232023-02-24T06:09:00.002-08:002023-03-16T18:24:23.037-07:00Top 10 Most Infamous Banking Scandals That Shocked Jamaica: A Chronological List<div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>On the heels of the breaking international news about NCB and Sagicor bank scandals, we have the new SSL and Usain Bolt saga. In light of that I thought it would be worth looking at how Jamaica's banking industry has been plagued by a number of scandals and controversies over the years, involving insider trading, fraud, embezzlement, and other illegal financial practices. These scandals have not only caused significant financial losses for thousands of investors and depositors, but have also damaged public trust in the country's financial institutions and regulators.</p><p>The following is a list of the top 10 most notable banking scandals and controversies in Jamaica's history, arranged in chronological order. These scandals have involved some of the country's largest and most well-known banks and financial institutions, and have led to criminal investigations, arrests, and convictions of some of the individuals involved. They also sparked public outrage and calls for greater oversight and regulation of the financial sector in Jamaica.</p><p> </p></div></div></div><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><ol><li><p>The NCB Financial Group scandal of the 1990s, in which it was revealed that executives at the bank had engaged in insider trading and other illegal financial practices.</p></li><li><p>The "Cash Plus" scandal of the 2000s, in which the company's owner Carlos Hill defrauded thousands of investors of millions of dollars.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkkeJPrBu_a8Mfw9301n6YfFXx4zE6zNfLXNHPOWItXwmxgP3WzJueO-jtIBpREOtz-fdryS8QRKAyO9lZsApG-a6wIC6OkUu2DxASPOzb6a4nLl6jg_hJY2x8AaO9MypY833TXQHvbPejLaSkzS9lbXjXuWQ4ysRSDsEEQ0BcA7iK5dfllQ/s698/Screenshot%202023-01-20%20at%2015-04-11%20cashplus%20jamaica%20scandal%20at%20DuckDuckGo.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="698" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkkeJPrBu_a8Mfw9301n6YfFXx4zE6zNfLXNHPOWItXwmxgP3WzJueO-jtIBpREOtz-fdryS8QRKAyO9lZsApG-a6wIC6OkUu2DxASPOzb6a4nLl6jg_hJY2x8AaO9MypY833TXQHvbPejLaSkzS9lbXjXuWQ4ysRSDsEEQ0BcA7iK5dfllQ/w200-h148/Screenshot%202023-01-20%20at%2015-04-11%20cashplus%20jamaica%20scandal%20at%20DuckDuckGo.png" width="200" /></a></div><p> </p></li><li><p>The "Pan Caribbean Financial Services" scandal of the 2000s, in which it was revealed that executives at the company had engaged in fraudulent activities, including Ponzi scheme.</p></li><li><p>The OLINT banking scandal of the 2000s, in which the owner and operator of the OLINT Corporation, David Smith, used a Ponzi scheme to defraud investors of millions of dollars</p></li><li><p>The "National Commercial Bank" scandal of the 2010s, in which it was revealed that executives at the bank had engaged in corrupt practices, including insider trading and money laundering.</p></li><li><p>The "Victoria Mutual Building Society" scandal of the 2010s, in which it was revealed that executives at the company had misused funds and engaged in other financial improprieties.</p></li><li><p>The "First Global Bank" scandal of the 2010s, in which it was revealed that executives at the bank had engaged in fraudulent activities, including money laundering and insider trading.</p></li><li><p>The "Clarendon Credit Union" scandal of the 2010s, in which it was revealed that officials had misused funds and engaged in other financial improprieties.</p></li><li><p>The "Capital & Credit Merchant Bank" scandal of the 2010s, in which it was revealed that the bank had failed to disclose to its shareholders that it was facing financial difficulties and had been engaging in unsound banking practices</p></li><li><p>The "Mico University College" scandal of the 2010s, in which it was revealed that executives at the college had misused funds and engaged in other financial improprieties.</p></li></ol><p>It is worth noting that some of the court cases related to these scandals might not have been concluded yet.<br /><br /><br /></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PobNEZDk8UI" width="320" youtube-src-id="PobNEZDk8UI"></iframe></div> </div><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light">#BankingScandals #Jamaica #InfamousScandals #FinancialCrimes
#WhiteCollarCrime #Corruption #JamaicanBanks #BankFraud #MoneyLaundering
#FinancialRegulation #JamaicanHistory #BusinessEthics #Transparency
#CorporateCrime #JamaicanFinance #FinancialTransparency
#FraudInvestigation #CorporateResponsibility #JamaicanEconomy
#FinancialCrimeInvestigation</div></div></div>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-20913124733121187612023-02-23T08:24:00.001-08:002023-02-23T08:24:10.331-08:00Graphic Design's Future in Machine Learning and SVG Graphics: A Perspective from Montego Bay<h2 style="text-align: left;">Introduction:</h2><h2 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8I78F7Kc2YknHo-hX12J70KjVLkjqfUdECL4J6IFPbyCAESeMG_b7Nj2ypMIjVRoM0pxwHYt3W8ZpvaTqjRPcGdGHayZxw2XrZoqbHe_1AZ769sEtydYyGxj8Yge-UlK1c9eDL9xl4D_KfQa4yLVEvP7ZYMnyC0KQdSUptxW6Mz3__-foLQ/s640/a-ga54ac9ac2_640.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="640" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8I78F7Kc2YknHo-hX12J70KjVLkjqfUdECL4J6IFPbyCAESeMG_b7Nj2ypMIjVRoM0pxwHYt3W8ZpvaTqjRPcGdGHayZxw2XrZoqbHe_1AZ769sEtydYyGxj8Yge-UlK1c9eDL9xl4D_KfQa4yLVEvP7ZYMnyC0KQdSUptxW6Mz3__-foLQ/s320/a-ga54ac9ac2_640.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /> </h2><br /><br /><p> </p><p>As the buzz around artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow, the
market for AI tools geared towards artists and designers has expanded
rapidly. As a graphic designer and philosopher based in Montego Bay, I
am constantly seeking new trends and innovations that can improve the
quality and efficiency of my work. One area that has piqued my interest
recently is the potential of using scalable vector graphics (SVGs) in
machine learning applications. In this article, I will delve into why
SVGs may be an ideal format for machine learning and how this technology
has the potential to revolutionize the way we design and create
graphics. </p><p>Over the past few years, we've seen a surge in AI-powered software
geared towards the creative industries. Some examples of popular tools
include Adobe's Sensei, which uses machine learning to assist with tasks
like image editing and layout design, and Canva's Magic Resize feature,
which automatically adjusts designs to fit different platforms and
sizes. Another notable AI tool is Nvidia's GauGAN, which uses deep
learning algorithms to generate realistic landscapes from simple
sketches. These tools have not only increased efficiency and
productivity for designers but have also opened up new possibilities for
artistic expression. As we continue to push the boundaries of what AI
can do in the creative realm, it's exciting to consider the potential
impact of using SVGs as a format for machine learning applications.</p><p>But before we dive in, let's define some key terms to ensure
we're all on the same page.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Definitions:</h3><ul><li><p>Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG): A file format for vector graphics that is based on XML. SVG images can be scaled without losing quality and are commonly used for logos, icons, and other graphics that need to be used in multiple contexts.</p></li><li><p>Machine Learning: A type of artificial intelligence that allows computers to learn from data without being explicitly programmed. Machine learning algorithms can recognize patterns and make predictions based on data.</p></li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gMIZljtP8Xkraf0WQt5F0aU_Q8Eqf--5TtXGZBEf96RIpmRU6xC-7fqMG2ClXAA0EgTwISNSwBiFVcgZ00q7LPG3X9NC5k5A8Lrn_2Tosje3GSEsTffuvS83leIaQaLL9HQVN1bAhfmmO6-JKYX3Z1v7xEsCEiqvn4wtJCQrzthOLuEGBg/s640/cranium-g9ceed89ab_640.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="325" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gMIZljtP8Xkraf0WQt5F0aU_Q8Eqf--5TtXGZBEf96RIpmRU6xC-7fqMG2ClXAA0EgTwISNSwBiFVcgZ00q7LPG3X9NC5k5A8Lrn_2Tosje3GSEsTffuvS83leIaQaLL9HQVN1bAhfmmO6-JKYX3Z1v7xEsCEiqvn4wtJCQrzthOLuEGBg/s320/cranium-g9ceed89ab_640.png" width="163" /></a></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Section 1: The Benefits of SVGs for Machine Learning</h3><p>One of the main advantages of using SVGs in machine learning is that they are scalable and resolution-independent. Unlike raster-based formats like JPEG or PNG, which use a grid of pixels to represent images, SVGs use mathematical equations to represent graphics. This means that SVGs can be resized without losing image quality, and are ideal for creating designs that need to be used in multiple contexts, such as logos or icons.</p><p>Another advantage of using SVGs in machine learning is that they are easily manipulable using code. Because SVGs are a text-based format, they can be parsed and manipulated using code, making them ideal for machine learning applications that need to process large amounts of data quickly. Additionally, SVGs are lightweight and use less memory and processing power compared to raster-based formats, which can be important for machine learning applications that need to run on resource-constrained devices.</p><p> </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Section 2: Case Studies of SVGs in Machine Learning</h3><p>There are already several examples of how SVGs are being used in machine learning applications. For example, researchers at Google have developed an algorithm that can generate detailed 3D models of objects using only a single SVG image as input. The algorithm uses machine learning techniques to extrapolate the missing depth information from the SVG image, allowing it to generate highly detailed 3D models.</p><p>Another example comes from the field of natural language processing, where researchers are using SVGs to generate visual representations of text. By mapping each word in a sentence to a corresponding SVG image, researchers can generate a visual summary of the text that can be easily interpreted by humans or other machine learning algorithms.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Section 3: Implications and Future Directions</h3><p>As SVGs become more widely used in machine learning applications, there are several potential implications for the future of graphic design and visual communication. For example, designers may be able to use machine learning algorithms to generate complex graphics and visualizations based on simple text prompts, freeing up time and resources for other creative pursuits. Additionally, SVG-based machine learning algorithms may be able to generate highly personalized graphics and visualizations based on user data, creating new opportunities for targeted advertising and personalized content.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion:</h3><p>As a graphic designer and philosopher in Montego Bay, I'm excited about the potential of SVGs in machine learning applications. By leveraging the scalability, manipulability, and efficiency of SVGs, we may be able to revolutionize the way we design and create graphics, and create new opportunities for personalized, targeted visual communication. I look forward to seeing how this technology develops in the coming years, and how it will shape the future of graphic design and visual communication.</p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-69119521254192906442023-02-07T13:35:00.000-08:002023-02-07T13:35:01.192-08:00On Being a Grassroots Activist in Western Jamaica<p>As a resident of Montego Bay, Jamaica, I have seen the amazing work
being done by grassroots activists in my community and around the world.
These change-makers are truly the backbone of local empowerment, working
tirelessly to address social, political, and economic injustices. They
are the ones fighting to modify unfair laws, promoting peace, human
rights, and equality, and responding to emergencies with unwavering
courage and determination.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxqCKw6uCJL8AbcPqqtL_DSxM-QHdteTIbic85ZS0Nd9IV1X3v8CSZFR-53X__4y2Gh3GUHg7lKVFKAeMzfaH4BOGoCoO6OCTfFJ3S8sNN8-GNez2-Fw9YgB8Q-zdIIdmu4HDo_Oj-LJuowDeds2Rs_QKpaZcvhKv8ESTWJC6LVXfcYHWRg/s640/DSC00031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxqCKw6uCJL8AbcPqqtL_DSxM-QHdteTIbic85ZS0Nd9IV1X3v8CSZFR-53X__4y2Gh3GUHg7lKVFKAeMzfaH4BOGoCoO6OCTfFJ3S8sNN8-GNez2-Fw9YgB8Q-zdIIdmu4HDo_Oj-LJuowDeds2Rs_QKpaZcvhKv8ESTWJC6LVXfcYHWRg/s320/DSC00031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p><br />As an activist in Paradise Acres and Norwood I have experienced firsthand the challenges facing grassroots projects and civil society organizations (CSOs) in the country. Despite the tireless efforts of those who seek to create positive change in their communities, the obstacles are numerous, from the walls that separate bureaucracy from grassroots initiatives to the lack of government support for social entrepreneurship. Not only that but, grassroots
activists often face tremendous challenges. Corruption, lack of funding,
and a lack of support from allies that can make it difficult for these
change-makers to sustain their efforts and continue to make a positive
impact in their communities.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0x8PrYMzm9bsa04bl0SNd7avUExTK26e7VCmPiFVgena20f_32qkodVtvx0G7bhgzojtt3Sq9Nt670KuTXiDlX0EUpBT286eJm40rw_Ve4U4UY8RdIBVLUZpKBVK8LcXgP4vOTwLsatXb5Sh6xk2j6lm0a2rjADpzFbFvju4KHbWRKJqWQ/s396/mobayview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="236" data-original-width="396" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0x8PrYMzm9bsa04bl0SNd7avUExTK26e7VCmPiFVgena20f_32qkodVtvx0G7bhgzojtt3Sq9Nt670KuTXiDlX0EUpBT286eJm40rw_Ve4U4UY8RdIBVLUZpKBVK8LcXgP4vOTwLsatXb5Sh6xk2j6lm0a2rjADpzFbFvju4KHbWRKJqWQ/s320/mobayview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>
Before I dive too deeply into this discussion let me clarifying what I mean by grassroot activism. Grassroots activism is a bottom-up approach to social and political change that empowers individuals and communities to address their own issues and bring about positive change. In Montego Bay, Jamaica, community-based organizations and civil society groups are on the front-lines of these grassroot initiatives working towards creating a better future for the people of Jamaica.<br /><br />
Montego Bay, located on the northwest coast of Jamaica, is one of the island's largest cities and a major tourist destination. The history of Montego Bay is intertwined with Jamaica's colonial past, with the city serving as a hub for the slave trade and later as a center for the export of sugar and other crops. Despite its rich history, Montego Bay continues to face numerous social and economic challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and crime.<br /><br />
Paradise Acres and Norwood Montego Bay are two communities within the city that are particularly affected by these issues. Despite the difficulties they face, local residents are taking action to improve their communities and address the problems they face. The thing about grassroots activism though is... it is heartbreaking work and in my Caribbean island of Jamaica, it is a land of both breathtaking beauty and heart-wrenching tragedy. For those of us who call this place home, heartbreak is a familiar feeling, as we've lost friends and loved ones to all manner of circumstances. In the words of the great Bob Marley <i>"Good friends we have, oh, good friends we've lost along the way,
In this great future, you can't forget your past
So dry your tears, I seh
."</i><br /></p><p>But one loss in particular still haunts me - the death of my friend Rasta Errol.</p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>Errol was a member of the Rastafari Coral Gardens Benevolent Society, an organization established to provide care and support to the marginalized Rastafari community in the aftermath of the Coral Gardens atrocities of 1963. I had last seen him at a seminar for capacity building and an RCGBS meeting, full of life and energy as he discussed the future of the organization and the community it serves. But just a few short days later, while walking in the People's Arcade, he was viciously attacked by a group of men with knives and died while undergoing treatment at the hospital.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5_ucxDmrx_mecIV3NYuSPEHFYmbdOO0x37htMuZ-dUyN69fWRef8wpEGpadEV53PKWlkMDWVQJk69ivSC8GKQTwJkyRFygrM4QOR4CENRekorYwqBqMEfUTiJ6Q-9eOGbw1VQEAxy3U6ocamNmfe74z3dZwyq1DVdFXkM3RyF_Rhl6_U2A/s2048/IMG_20151120_122819333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5_ucxDmrx_mecIV3NYuSPEHFYmbdOO0x37htMuZ-dUyN69fWRef8wpEGpadEV53PKWlkMDWVQJk69ivSC8GKQTwJkyRFygrM4QOR4CENRekorYwqBqMEfUTiJ6Q-9eOGbw1VQEAxy3U6ocamNmfe74z3dZwyq1DVdFXkM3RyF_Rhl6_U2A/s320/IMG_20151120_122819333.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This tragedy is not just a personal loss, but a devastating blow to the community as a whole. It highlights the ongoing struggles faced by Jamaica's marginalized groups, and the urgent need for organizations like the RCGBS to continue their efforts in providing support and protection.<p></p><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6oll5IRYsxxrQAADG7LkaogNIIdCML-HC1zAh9TD5CcPKZjd0QkPpQNEE1V7CplVLWeeb7v3oya4nSnkoUdFtq8WmFwVOtXdl12PDGr9xSCFf9lf8y7nxokbz28z7jk5vky6jID13ixc9cyULQVqTMKMxC3X22YtMjTe6uuygGTWg0OAn2Q/s2048/IMG_20151120_122833162_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6oll5IRYsxxrQAADG7LkaogNIIdCML-HC1zAh9TD5CcPKZjd0QkPpQNEE1V7CplVLWeeb7v3oya4nSnkoUdFtq8WmFwVOtXdl12PDGr9xSCFf9lf8y7nxokbz28z7jk5vky6jID13ixc9cyULQVqTMKMxC3X22YtMjTe6uuygGTWg0OAn2Q/s320/IMG_20151120_122833162_HDR.jpg" width="180" /></a></p><p>But it is not just the Rastafari community that is facing challenges. Civil society organizations (CSOs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) in Montego Bay and across Jamaica are also grappling with bureaucratic hurdles and confusing legal parameters that limit their freedom of association. The nonprofit industrial complex (NPIC) in Jamaica has been criticized for its lack of support for these organizations, with the state and its partners seemingly more interested in giving money to abstract concepts and causes than to the people who desperately need it.</p><p>I have seen the barriers that exist between activists, donors, and
ally organizations, like international NGOs. Donors and allies often
struggle to connect with grassroots groups and understand the unique
challenges they face. This can lead to limited funding and resources
being directed towards organizations considered to be more stable,
trustworthy, and less "controversial." Meanwhile, the limited resources
available for grassroots activists often come with excessive
requirements and foster competition between groups, rather than
supporting collaboration and cooperation.</p><p>This situation is not
sustainable. Activists are forced to become more and more resilient, but
they cannot continue to carry the weight of their causes on their own.
They are asking for change, for a world where their work is recognized,
resourced, and supported. It's time for us to stand with them, to
understand the importance of their work, and to provide the support they
need to continue making a positive impact in our world. </p><p>I believe in the power of grassroots activism. I believe in the strength of community-based organizations that are truly driven by the people, for the people. I believe that tearing down the walls between bureaucracies and making the internal bureaucracy more flexible will lead to more resilient communities and a better future for Jamaica and its pan-African heart.</p><p>I also believe in the power of social entrepreneurship, which I see as a way to address large-scale issues in a sustainable and effective manner. But this requires a change in thinking and action on the part of the government and its partners, and so far, discussions on this topic have not taken place at a significant level.</p><p>So in sharing my experience I am calling upon all those who care about the future of Jamaica and its people to come together, to centralize our efforts, and to fight for a better tomorrow. Let us honor the memory of all those who have suffered and died in the face of injustice and inequality. This is a call to action for all of us who believe in the power of grassroots activism to bring about positive change. By breaking down the barriers that stand between grassroots activists, donors, and allies, we can create powerful, empowered alliances that will help bring about the change we need to see in our world.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlC1bIiBFly-ySFm9CIf794KN_CehXDs0paaq4R6mASgcbRjThrCOG0pdwHc0ftsSDJjPEQhgBUzlIeT-UTUJQLdJIeWc2xflHAvWV9KIt-ixgqxHWxHxkWXod43A-8G6aAvpjvK65Q8C5RK94-hl8UNMN4oSVnrz2TWokaq7UL4wJtBSMg/s640/IMG_20151120_124000618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlC1bIiBFly-ySFm9CIf794KN_CehXDs0paaq4R6mASgcbRjThrCOG0pdwHc0ftsSDJjPEQhgBUzlIeT-UTUJQLdJIeWc2xflHAvWV9KIt-ixgqxHWxHxkWXod43A-8G6aAvpjvK65Q8C5RK94-hl8UNMN4oSVnrz2TWokaq7UL4wJtBSMg/s320/IMG_20151120_124000618.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I am out here and on the front-lines seeking ways in this movement, bringing together community to work towards a common goal. Through collective action and a shared commitment to change, we can support and uplift the tireless efforts of grassroots activists everywhere. In a world that is more challenged and politically divided than ever, unity is essential. By coming together in solidarity, we can ensure that grassroots activists are valued, resourced, and supported as they work towards a better future for us all. Join the revolution, and work towards a world where change-makers on the front-lines are recognized, resourced, and supported!<p></p></div></div></div><br /><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><br /></div></div></div>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-30775843234892809232023-02-04T10:34:00.003-08:002023-03-09T16:36:53.472-08:00Coming of Age: A Jamaican Perspective<p></p><blockquote><i>"It takes a village to raise a child"</i><br /><b>African Proverb</b></blockquote> <br />How'd you make it through puberty, was it like Wonder Years for you? To me or for me rather, puberty and coming of age for me began the summer before high school. In Jamaica, coming of age refers to the transition from childhood to adulthood and is marked by a number of cultural and social milestones. These may include obtaining a driver's license, completing education, getting a job, and becoming financially independent. For many young people in Jamaica, coming of age also involves participating in cultural and religious rites of passage, such as Rastafarian groundation or a Kumbaya ceremony. These ceremonies often involve the guidance of elders and the community and are meant to provide young people with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate adulthood.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZJnp8QEJ8SyVYzu7PeSpXmNFrAExaaHSxhttn8421NuEsBqYC3MW34wT9oh_QBxW1rHdf_FYeanFm9whaH9cqTWeY5z4xNONEEcyZDZqfOrxf2m1wE-dZs6kj_sCWCPCTpcFLyBD1jnKUN3MkpOzEgTXGgG99bFz8ZZ4gdEHWkYujvZArw/s242/image2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="242" data-original-width="201" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZJnp8QEJ8SyVYzu7PeSpXmNFrAExaaHSxhttn8421NuEsBqYC3MW34wT9oh_QBxW1rHdf_FYeanFm9whaH9cqTWeY5z4xNONEEcyZDZqfOrxf2m1wE-dZs6kj_sCWCPCTpcFLyBD1jnKUN3MkpOzEgTXGgG99bFz8ZZ4gdEHWkYujvZArw/s1600/image2" width="201" /></a><p></p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>On this isle, family and community are central to the coming of age process. It is common for young people to be surrounded by a network of supportive adults who offer guidance and mentorship as they navigate this transition. Well at least that's the way it used to be years ago, "when the village raised a child." It was a time and age of apprenticeships, when youth would learn shoe-making, carpentry, masonry, tiling or upholstery from members of the community. When one was subject to the watchful eye of everyone in a community and if say for instance a child hid away far from home and smoked a cigarette, he could be sure before he reached home the grapevine told his parents before he arrived. And that was an age before cellphones or what my Grandma insisted on calling 'the circular phone".<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-S5e_wQU57ni9-aCF35hKMuh9OIsYwxB1QUOQ1wqrPiYvlTEIJLW1zupjSgXKe7kBb00RdiaYehNXfbDq20yHj4uEw537VQiLmG1YMwwV9Uf0vI2_GkbGt-L8nOrUFONbvRUshDeYfQIiE0ahzp9cvVeeX4deR-kzLF1__qAZNorKbr3RVQ/s1024/SAM_0952.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-S5e_wQU57ni9-aCF35hKMuh9OIsYwxB1QUOQ1wqrPiYvlTEIJLW1zupjSgXKe7kBb00RdiaYehNXfbDq20yHj4uEw537VQiLmG1YMwwV9Uf0vI2_GkbGt-L8nOrUFONbvRUshDeYfQIiE0ahzp9cvVeeX4deR-kzLF1__qAZNorKbr3RVQ/s320/SAM_0952.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><p></p><p>This time of life can be marked by angst and some amount of suffering. Coming of age in JamRock for many, can also be marked by challenges, such as poverty, lack of access to education and job opportunities, and social and political issues. Despite these challenges, many young people in Jamaica are able to overcome them and go on to lead successful and fulfilling lives. In fact at one part of life I believed that overcoming great tragedy made coming of age more meaningful. Essentially I valued that Disney and Marvel orphan who become a hero rather than that Archie comics girl crisis or Napoleon Dynamite.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUDfgi7A-yvaRJeGRYhsvf5cB7gTS-OI2sBqDOEMqcxQfo64a87jeDYzhoSQ0XeEYLkkOiKtMsuKIgHCMDwduyA9oGVxeAKP-7yYfxCS98OdFkPZIwEGgEVl8JtTapeoSX23zED4Ig6bSIB5xIAom74uBd50WYlyumP606ZBA2hBZRMbkc3A/s1280/DSCF0378.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUDfgi7A-yvaRJeGRYhsvf5cB7gTS-OI2sBqDOEMqcxQfo64a87jeDYzhoSQ0XeEYLkkOiKtMsuKIgHCMDwduyA9oGVxeAKP-7yYfxCS98OdFkPZIwEGgEVl8JtTapeoSX23zED4Ig6bSIB5xIAom74uBd50WYlyumP606ZBA2hBZRMbkc3A/s320/DSCF0378.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>As I look back on my coming of age, I am struck by the overwhelming sense of anxiety and uncertainty that pervaded my teenage years. This was a time when life choices loomed large and dictated the person I would eventually become. In Jamaica, the choices I faced were especially weighty, as they encompassed issues such as gun violence, gang involvement, peer pressure and their accompanying dangers. These choices tested my resolve and shaped the values that would guide me in adulthood.<br /></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G6jGfLEb_1We7rlL3JByqM6qky_JbZVKFBKZlS1R2fgqkyVhn18TKlItn1bjBwB8ZEwnAQ0YYFCwHHE8DvlLGcT1fZ9S24rjlZ6IZppRzRzxx6bGxJzR1NCkk-Ls_XbM3MOa-vYS1Jzmw7FpezsvJ51fDQNM76JJa05Zv8Jyn9lIRSMN3Q/s640/Almost%20Marley.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G6jGfLEb_1We7rlL3JByqM6qky_JbZVKFBKZlS1R2fgqkyVhn18TKlItn1bjBwB8ZEwnAQ0YYFCwHHE8DvlLGcT1fZ9S24rjlZ6IZppRzRzxx6bGxJzR1NCkk-Ls_XbM3MOa-vYS1Jzmw7FpezsvJ51fDQNM76JJa05Zv8Jyn9lIRSMN3Q/s320/Almost%20Marley.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>At the same time, my coming of age was marked by questions of how to navigate sexuality and desire, questions that tested my sense of self and challenged my understanding of the world. I was forced to confront my own lusts and desires and make choices that would determine the course of my life; things like is it right to have one woman or many women, how do yo treat women, do you lie to get women. And, of course, there were questions of money and politics, with the latter proving especially complicated in a country marked by deep social and economic inequalities. I remember once speaking in a dark corner late one night when I was probably in 10th grade and when that sexual tension built up and I stalled, she asked what was the matter? When I told her I had a girl she scornfully laughed and scoffed, "So yuh a one burner?" I share this tale with great chagrin, as my ego was wounded. There are so many tales like this I could tell you and I suspect I will have to save that for a post and tale I will call, "My Cuming of Age: To All the Women I Loved Before"<br /><br />In many ways, my coming of age was a time of constant questioning, of searching for answers and trying to make sense of a world that was often confusing and uncertain. But it was also a time of growth, of forging my own identity and charting a path forward in life. And as I look back on it now, I am filled with a sense of pride at the choices I made, and a deep appreciation for the person I have become.<br /><p></p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>As a child of the 1980s, I was shaped by a kaleidoscope of media that informed my coming of age. Through books, comic books, cartoons, movies and more, I navigated the complexities of growing up, exploring the worlds of fiction and fantasy as I sought to understand my place in the world. At one point, I had aspirations of becoming Jamaica's first Walt Disney, with the goal of igniting the imaginations of other children with my own brand of animation.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvW9BUo0LaNdQumHovog8xl6-H4DQP3Cz1ABVh8VzZ7d1x85Z00JV_99JslE1mnP0DBh1U48fhXp6fhX6jPrVH9h0OIBsoYSA9C5QYNhAGdk5a_wqift5_zI28MxKNoX-LRTf8vLYYrh9ruUliWoeNHpdx_2exTO8bkTUrVAoL8pfAKVgFTw/s577/bolt-firstlook-logo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvW9BUo0LaNdQumHovog8xl6-H4DQP3Cz1ABVh8VzZ7d1x85Z00JV_99JslE1mnP0DBh1U48fhXp6fhX6jPrVH9h0OIBsoYSA9C5QYNhAGdk5a_wqift5_zI28MxKNoX-LRTf8vLYYrh9ruUliWoeNHpdx_2exTO8bkTUrVAoL8pfAKVgFTw/s320/bolt-firstlook-logo.jpg" width="277" /></a></div>However, as I reached high school, my aspirations shifted from animation to comic books. The writings of David Michelinie and Tom Defalco, and the art of Ron Frenz, Mark Bagley, and Erik Larsen had reeled me into the world of Marvel Comics. I had been introduced to Spider-man through his Amazing Friends on TV, but it wasn't until I jumped into the Amazing Spider-man during the Carnage origin 3-parter that I came to know the web-slinger in a deeper way. From that moment on, I was hooked, following Peter Parker's adventures with a passion. Peter Parker and Wally West's Flash became vehicles for my own venting and examining my own coming of age experience. Essentially I used the lessons of boys becoming heroes as a metaphor for my own journey. The line in the Spider-Man comic strip that said "When Peter is accidentally bitten by a radioactive spider, he discovers that he has superhuman, web-slinging powers and learned that with great power comes great responsibility, and now fights crime and tries to maintain some semblance of a normal life", yeah that line struck me and rung true. X-Men and mutant powers that manifested in puberty, Wally West learning to graduate from Kid Flash to big Flash... those stories help me cross the Rubicon.<br /><p></p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>The love of comics and the desire to bring my own stories to life never left me, and I knew that I wanted to be a writer and artist in the comic book industry. I wanted to craft stories that would captivate and inspire others in the same way that I had been inspired by the comics of my youth. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkmgoDG9uchwsndK1R15xd9yUcvCdiK1El5dyhQIv-oHkDuBA9_VBAPC3saH91VIzUbPbAfhbtgBGGA7dxJPdm14Mki3c622M1NnQcV-t02_8Y5Bw2taFVGCHekisxNHzN0j7hxKX1YBtav_Da6MNXYtH746ux9K34AlhdFd46aqjnjM7jw/s1280/folders-1143685_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkmgoDG9uchwsndK1R15xd9yUcvCdiK1El5dyhQIv-oHkDuBA9_VBAPC3saH91VIzUbPbAfhbtgBGGA7dxJPdm14Mki3c622M1NnQcV-t02_8Y5Bw2taFVGCHekisxNHzN0j7hxKX1YBtav_Da6MNXYtH746ux9K34AlhdFd46aqjnjM7jw/s320/folders-1143685_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Coming of age content isn't just limited to cartoons or comics but is rife in literature. The type of lit that deals with the
theme of young people transitioning from childhood to adulthood. This
type of literature even has a fancy name "Bildungsroman" and as you probably realize it often focuses on the challenges and experiences that
young people face as they navigate this transition and explore their
identity, values, and place in the world. Reading coming of age
literature can be particularly helpful for youth as it can provide them
with relatable characters and situations that they can draw from as they
navigate their own coming of age journey. It can also provide a sense
of connection and understanding as young people see their own
experiences reflected in the stories they read. There is a reason they give us Sprat Morrison and Escape to Last Man's Peak in 7th grade, then Shane, The Chrysalids, Young Warrior and Three Finger Jack's Treasure, The Pearl, Green Days by the River. A Year in San Fernando and A Brighter Sun. Outside of school reading I found Stephen King's Hearts in Atlantis as a great refrain.<br /><br />In addition, coming of age literature can help youth to develop critical thinking skills as they consider the themes and messages of the stories and how they relate to their own lives. It can also expose them to new ideas and perspectives and help them to explore their own values and beliefs.<br /><br />My coming of age was marked not only by media and the shaping of my imagination, but also by music and a rich musical journey. Music was a constant presence in my life, a soundtrack to the ups and downs of growing up. It provided solace and comfort in times of uncertainty and was a source of inspiration and hope. As I discovered different genres and artists, my musical tastes expanded, and I developed a deep appreciation for the power of music to evoke emotions and tell stories. I found myself drawn to the melodies and lyrics of singer-songwriters, the raw energy of rock and roll, the acoustic sounds of folk rock, and the alternative vibes of the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s.<br /><br />My favorites artists included Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Simon and
Garfunkel, Goo Goo Dolls, Lenny Kravitz, Barrington Levy, Bounty Killer,
Damian Marley, Enya, Cat Stevens, Outkast, and the Fugees. These
musicians became a part of my musical DNA, influencing my tastes and
shaping my journey. Beres Hammond's Putting Up Resistance made me acutely aware of the social circumstance of the working man and gave me ample preparation for adulting and it's rigors/ Bob Dylan's Tangled Up in Blue taught me the vagaries that life's journey would bring and the rich textures of love varying women bring. Simon and Garfunkel's The Boxer prepared me to fail or flail on my way to maturity.<br /><br />I also began to see music as a form of expression and a means of connecting with others. Whether I was singing along to my favorite songs, trying to learn to play the guitar with friends, experimenting with AtoMix, Virtual DJ and Fruity Loops or discovering new music with others, music was a source of community and a way to connect with the world around me.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSN4Wxxy1Kdf8t71xF-K-muCHNR0_5kgm6Ql-O8NFHcLhX3I7ZsvimPkAhPmlF6OfRH6YiQhRsnhi3qxjJY0mE4tuYhHWjCitHZ3KQavpPE9FbGD8p4f4iNXrmeeosGrz-i3l-Ir0rqQUZA1K1idDdUx9Ef8wHYv2kaagaEvurIEW_sWPYw/s1600/radioselassiepromo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSN4Wxxy1Kdf8t71xF-K-muCHNR0_5kgm6Ql-O8NFHcLhX3I7ZsvimPkAhPmlF6OfRH6YiQhRsnhi3qxjJY0mE4tuYhHWjCitHZ3KQavpPE9FbGD8p4f4iNXrmeeosGrz-i3l-Ir0rqQUZA1K1idDdUx9Ef8wHYv2kaagaEvurIEW_sWPYw/s320/radioselassiepromo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>This musical journey became an integral part of my coming of age, shaping my tastes and influencing the person I would become. And even now, as I look back on my life, music remains a central part of who I am, a reminder of the power of sound and the role it has played in my journey.</p></div></div></div><p></p><p>So maybe you can understand how it was I that developed my sense of purpose that I set out on my path, determined to make my mark in the world. And as I look back on it now, I am proud of the journey I took and the person I have become. For though my life has taken many twists and turns, my love for comics and my desire to inspire others have remained constant, a shining beacon that guides me forward even to this day.<br /></p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>In conclusion, coming of age is a transformative experience that shapes the person we become. In Jamaica, it involves a rich tapestry of cultural and social milestones, as well as challenges that must be overcome. The support of family and community is integral to the coming of age process, and young people must make choices that will determine their path in life. Coming of age literature can play a crucial role in this process by providing young people with relatable characters, new ideas, and a sense of connection. It is a time of constant questioning, growth, and pride as one shapes their own identity and charts their path forward in life. Our coming of age experiences shape who we are, and it is a journey that is unique to each individual.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p> </p></div></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2vo8LRePnC4gbh95IQwLaoAgvUPyI8s3gd29-wdtw0Q3Q51LdycQwCfjXRF21HudVrbsFi-UQk2o1Q9pbsRpuPbM5TqUEfV8Glp2QirGz0_LKJUmUGCqscCInLhNq0lV8KSgMwuAoSRzEXbEAq9_UtTEpYKPFOMnvM290xIMpLyiO-dpRg/s540/12189093_10153600928183264_2295935438537822195_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="540" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2vo8LRePnC4gbh95IQwLaoAgvUPyI8s3gd29-wdtw0Q3Q51LdycQwCfjXRF21HudVrbsFi-UQk2o1Q9pbsRpuPbM5TqUEfV8Glp2QirGz0_LKJUmUGCqscCInLhNq0lV8KSgMwuAoSRzEXbEAq9_UtTEpYKPFOMnvM290xIMpLyiO-dpRg/s320/12189093_10153600928183264_2295935438537822195_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-60549375443556055852023-01-19T15:00:00.000-08:002023-01-19T15:00:43.482-08:00Jamaican Top Ten Movies - A 2023 List<p>Jamaica has a rich and diverse film industry, producing a wide range of films that explore the country's culture, history, and politics. Not like this list hasn't been done all over there internet, and even on this blog,! However for some reason I feel compelled to do it again for 2023. So here is another top ten list of notable Jamaican films:</p><ol>
<li>
<p>"The Harder They Come" (1972) - This iconic film stars Jimmy Cliff as a young man who moves to Kingston to become a musician and ends up becoming a notorious outlaw. It is widely considered a classic of Jamaican cinema and is credited with introducing reggae music to a worldwide audience.</p>
<img alt="The Harder They Come movie poster" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vulNl9Qeb1jvKcmRTmg1dkdl7RiEz9FY6TMFvy3WghF8Ze2X6hAosLPeD0jhfBbwLuKMdmNeMNA9vU53Rt4EuPGfqHT046EwSg0MQcOTEdSTfRHG92MqjUTboMMM7nHqdCZojPy0MesI5qIT1yK4ixREhFZyGI1GoiNrXzqG8_cgeMg9tQ/w200-h149/IMG_0936-2290512024.jpeg" width="200" />
</li>
<li>
<p>"Rockers" (1978) - This film is a classic roots reggae movie that tells the story of a group of musicians in Kingston, Jamaica who are trying to make a living in the music industry. It stars Leroy "Horsemouth" Wallace, a real-life reggae drummer and actor, and features an all-star cast of Jamaican musicians.</p>
<img alt="Rockers movie poster" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4UspOMOdcDOeA7qT4lNA9pY5rhGJCaSCi8K5mHzqAAgigAx-4jdOjDJoHIfKBBuH-FrQyNDFtj1rKNFR9wVB66FL6XxFrvEMgIAHZY3f6V95h77eYNMRuC12oYMml5vcWVqII2EXtyZUcL5W5Cy45M_jBwYWpwLRETlhCW35v4bOVK9Jnw/w153-h200/rockers-312556855.jpeg" width="153" />
</li>
<li><p>"Third World Cop" (1999) - This is a crime action film that follows a young police officer in Jamaica as he struggles to fight against the drug trade and corruption in his community. It stars Jamaican actor Paul Campbell and features a memorable performance by the late legendary Jamaican DJ and actor, Carl Bradshaw.<br /><br /></p><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BEq-wydAhdI" width="320" youtube-src-id="BEq-wydAhdI"></iframe></li>
<li><p>"Dancehall Queen" (1997) - This film is a romantic comedy that tells the story of a poor Jamaican woman who becomes a popular dancehall queen. It stars Audrey Reid and is directed by Don Letts.</p><p></p><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kRQdeadFiy8" width="320" youtube-src-id="kRQdeadFiy8"></iframe> <br />
</li><li><p>"One Love" (2003) - This film is a romantic drama that tells the story of a young man who falls in love with a woman from a rival community and must navigate the cultural differences and conflicts that arise as a result. It stars Ky-Mani Marley, the son of Bob Marley, and is directed by Rick Elgood.</p></li>
<li><p>"Cool Runnings" (1993) - This is a American sports comedy film directed by Jon Turteltaub, it is loosely based on the true story of the Jamaica national bobsleigh team's debut in competition during the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The film stars Leon Robinson, Doug E. Doug, Rawle D. Lewis, Malik Yoba and John Candy.</p></li>
<li><p>"Shottas" (2002) - A crime film that tells the story of two young men who grow up in the slums of Kingston, Jamaica and become involved in the world of organized crime. The film stars Ky-Mani Marley and Spragga Benz, and is directed by Cess Silvera.</p></li>
<li><p>"Countryman" (1982) - A film that tells the story of a fisherman who becomes a local hero in Jamaica after discovering a valuable underwater treasure. It stars Winston Ntshona and is directed by Dickie Jobson.</p></li>
<li><p>"The Lunatic" (1992) - this is a Jamaican drama film directed by Chris Browne and starring Paul Campbell and Carl Bradshaw. The film tells the story of a man who is released from a mental institution and returns home to Jamaica, where he faces numerous challenges and struggles to rebuild his life.</p></li>
<li><p>"Smile Orange" (1976) - a Jamaican film directed by Perry Henzell, is a satire about a struggling Jamaican resort hotel, as seen through the eyes of the hotel's staff and guests. The film is considered a classic and a cult film of the Jamaican cinema, it stars Carl Bradshaw and Raymond St. Jacques.</p></li>
<p>Other noteworthy mentions include "Jamaica, Jamaica" (2020), "Kingston Paradise" (2012), "Better Mus' Come" (2011), "No Place Like Home" (2001), "</p><p></p></ol>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-57676697890417785182022-12-23T08:12:00.002-08:002022-12-23T08:13:56.629-08:00Santa Fraud<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKn6h7xSgh5DRN6DYxxleIz81cZ-VYjkqK9vIjwpU_Y5kkDf4_2-73VzW4ixS7gzS6w7J5ZmQOlZtoIHrjiSV1Nq0YXlfyGXpKNQsgVJdvENWew6sjaEkzU_xpg8TH0O01amuKXksc_Glt1MayHfm8OFG4HB4A-IX9xIKGZXR4xG4hRErWqQ/s640/santa-gd75ea6f44_640.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="640" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKn6h7xSgh5DRN6DYxxleIz81cZ-VYjkqK9vIjwpU_Y5kkDf4_2-73VzW4ixS7gzS6w7J5ZmQOlZtoIHrjiSV1Nq0YXlfyGXpKNQsgVJdvENWew6sjaEkzU_xpg8TH0O01amuKXksc_Glt1MayHfm8OFG4HB4A-IX9xIKGZXR4xG4hRErWqQ/s320/santa-gd75ea6f44_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As the holiday season is upon us, the jolly figure of Santa Claus can be seen in malls, plazas and storefronts around the world, bringing joy and cheer to children and adults alike. As a beloved figure of Christmas, Santa Claus has been a fixture in holiday celebrations for generations. However, from the perspective of developing countries and low-income families, Santa Claus may not always be the benevolent gift-giver he is made out to be.<p></p><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="request-:R3d6:-0 markdown prose break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>First, the idea of Santa Claus as a jolly old man who travels the world
delivering presents to every child reinforces the notion of excess
consumption and materialism. In a world where many people struggle to
afford basic necessities, the image of Santa showering children with
expensive gifts can be hurtful and insensitive.It can hardly be debated that the commercialization of Santa Claus doesn't perpetuates a culture of consumerism and materialism that can be detrimental to the well-being of individuals and communities. In many developing countries, families may go into debt trying to keep up with the Jones's, as well as the latest toys and gadgets that are marketed as the must-have gifts for the holiday season. This focus on material possessions can and does take away from the true spirit of the holiday season, which is about spending time with loved ones and being grateful for what we have.</p><p>Furthermore, the image of Santa Claus as a wealthy, white, male reinforces oppressive and harmful stereotypes. This can be especially damaging for children in marginalized communities who may not see themselves represented in the dominant narrative of Santa Claus. The idea of Santa Claus as a magical figure who knows when every child has been "naughty or nice" and has the ability to judge and reward their behavior is concerning. This can promote unhealthy power dynamics and the belief that certain individuals have the right to control and dictate the actions of others. It is important for holiday traditions to be inclusive and reflect the diverse experiences and backgrounds of people around the world. If not this mode of operating can perpetuate discrimination and marginalization of people from different races, genders, and cultural backgrounds.</p><p>Why have we departed so far from the days of Jonkunnu?<br /></p><p>Additionally, the environmental impact of the holiday season and the consumer culture associated with Santa Claus cannot be ignored. The production and transportation of the millions of gifts that are exchanged during the holiday season contributes to pollution and climate change. In a time of global crisis, it is important to consider the environmental consequences of our actions and strive for sustainable and eco-friendly holiday practices.</p><p>In conclusion, while Santa Claus may bring joy and excitement to many during the holiday season, it is important to consider the negative effects that the commercialization of this figure can have on third world countries and poor families. Santa Claus may be a beloved holiday figure, however the portrayal of him in mainstream culture can be harmful and unrealistic. Instead of prioritizing material possessions and perpetuating harmful stereotypes, we should focus on the true spirit of the holiday season and work towards inclusive and sustainable celebrations. It is important to
consider and address these issues in order to create a more inclusive
and equitable holiday season for all.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pGis2nHWdlA" width="320" youtube-src-id="pGis2nHWdlA"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-59353263735412419052022-11-23T11:39:00.003-08:002023-03-16T18:27:14.711-07:00On Being an Artist in Western Jamaica<p></p>"You can't be a starving artist if you don't make art"<br />~Unknown<br /><p></p><p><br /><br />A few months ago, I entered the Jamaica Cultural Development's Visual Arts Competition for the first time. To my great surprise two week, I actually won 2 bronze medals. It was a most humbling experience especially when I went to the artist presentations in Montego Bay and Kingston and saw what a pantheon of talent I was fortunate to be amongst. An old friend from UWI, Mona Ms. Liz Toby received western Jamaica's gold medal for a fantastic piece that was most enlightening. She captured an important but lesser known figure and moment in Jamaica's history for Jamaica 60. She immaculately render Sir Harold Allen Jamaica's first black Minister of Finance, an independent politician, statesman, legislator, teacher, sportsman and business man. All this sudden surge of art, especially across the city (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>who do I need to bad up to get a mural contract</i></span>) has me thinking of the power of art and public spaces. The impact of art cannot and should never be underestimated. It can help to heal our nation and move it forward. Music isn't the only inspiring art form.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho__5lpo0r3OV8wMlk2t4Lv35WslJFu1VbanbQw7oBElhZMZaf0oWmb8gIgolDPulr2houTGPzEZtXcsSHt4qTCV8sC9KSNv6IHjWwADHBJQcS_zXHBwdg7KJgaFc5vkcgicE1dD92avqFLNVUHpMv9u_3Opbk0xYv3NsUvAADjlfd-OYV7Q/s514/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-23-42%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="411" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho__5lpo0r3OV8wMlk2t4Lv35WslJFu1VbanbQw7oBElhZMZaf0oWmb8gIgolDPulr2houTGPzEZtXcsSHt4qTCV8sC9KSNv6IHjWwADHBJQcS_zXHBwdg7KJgaFc5vkcgicE1dD92avqFLNVUHpMv9u_3Opbk0xYv3NsUvAADjlfd-OYV7Q/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-23-42%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" width="256" /></a></p><p>Art Is a Weapon in the Battle of Ideas</p><p>Our city streets can be gloomy grey concrete-covered places; the genius of street art can transform everyday objects and situations into fun and playful social spaces. Therefore supporting arts and culture initiatives like the Fair Saturday or Saturday Bazaar movement like the city had back in the 80’s when I was a child only makes sense. It would allow our city to take advantage of a billion dollar industry that creates strong, vibrant communities, employs local workers, attracts tourism, and boosts local economic development. And what of MoBay Nite Out and the community Nite Out events? Those were the beginnings of a movement that could have given our city a serious boost and possibly alleviated this violent turn our city has taken while being an economic opportunity for artists. </p><p>Summer in the city is marked by community gatherings and street dances, farmers’ markets plus a buzz of outdoor activities, especially Sumfest, Mobay Jerk Fest and the myriad of Fish Fries Bike Shows and parties like Yellow Diamond. In many places throughout the city such as the craft markets and the vending hubs need more robust help to prepare for the influx of tourists and foot traffic, so their stocks and inventory are big. In our city local arts and culture are should be on greater display. If the friendly city wants to recapture the air of friendliness then Montego Bay ought to seek to capture, harness and grow this energy year-round. One way to possibly do this is by starting or restarting a Saturday Bazaar to promote arts, culture and community giving this November. This could possibly be the makings of indigenous arts movement in the city. A Saturday Bazaar and MoBay Nite Out compounded by community nite outs, could spark the upturn in economic community life.</p><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7TLv58SV078SG3J-wMYC4AV4OPhWbd5OqCp3GpMdsN0-lMM_gGIi-hkD8MF4cKmjQydYtuO4zOBxZ-L_jOjkR8DJoM7sO7x_SAqKZCuT6TP9AK_vuNstLnyMXArgVC4n6GkadzXY0-U-qctRC2hd8ZsQ_Ot8bN4f8SA774ii5kUoHATaGA/s499/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-26-50%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="499" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7TLv58SV078SG3J-wMYC4AV4OPhWbd5OqCp3GpMdsN0-lMM_gGIi-hkD8MF4cKmjQydYtuO4zOBxZ-L_jOjkR8DJoM7sO7x_SAqKZCuT6TP9AK_vuNstLnyMXArgVC4n6GkadzXY0-U-qctRC2hd8ZsQ_Ot8bN4f8SA774ii5kUoHATaGA/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-26-50%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" width="320" /></a> </p><p>Art & Activism in the Age of Jamaican Independence<br /></p><p>Artists living in Kingston have many advantages over artists abiding in small towns, isolated villages and even the second city of Montego Bay. Art galleries often are more commonplace in corporate area. There are also more opportunities for artists, such as residencies, art grants, art associations, art clubs, studio space and artist events. More artists in these locations means a better chance of of meeting other artists, gallery owners and curators. Of course, the biggest drawback of living in a smaller city or town is access to a larger group of regular art buyers and patrons.<br /></p><p>Montego Bay is a tourism focused city. It's the sort of place where everyone kind of knows everyone — a town where, sometimes, I feel it's not the place for me, as small city life can have it's limitations. Don't get me wrong. I am the Montegonian and my city is a beautiful with appealing urban ambience. Rich red soil and rolling hills with rustic communities and garrisons that surround my life. It's also a city full of people that have been truly inspirational. Using my skills and Caribbean experience and injecting them into or projecting them onto modern media and design has always been my aim. Remixing and reinterpreting modern media and design ideas with Caribbean culture, ethos and cognitive elements are my personal dream. </p><p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HTCmieHOcHLPUxwhu7LudPJRBp2l79xy12g51MA-ocoWvGIRisC8PYskNin1PApAVyvI4ho_q_n1C26yBqlMGJfvu-K29l8hehtIEnLVf4qxuSpGJDCti9IlapChg5W1I3fmqxT0fTbNzbldYsu_QEC0rWkRjHX-oe9fY_EokkNKRfUWFQ/s515/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-32-41%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="412" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_HTCmieHOcHLPUxwhu7LudPJRBp2l79xy12g51MA-ocoWvGIRisC8PYskNin1PApAVyvI4ho_q_n1C26yBqlMGJfvu-K29l8hehtIEnLVf4qxuSpGJDCti9IlapChg5W1I3fmqxT0fTbNzbldYsu_QEC0rWkRjHX-oe9fY_EokkNKRfUWFQ/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-32-41%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" width="256" /></a> </p><p>I like most artists dream to one day have a career as a practicing artist. Art is my escape. To be able to create artwork is a fantastic gift, and I want everyone to share it. Using art I can change the world, because awareness is the first step to change. Some people may think art is just for fun, but to me it is a whole lot more than painting a pretty picture. You can say so many things with your art. You can have a voice. I want to make a statement. I want to voice an opinion. I understand many people don't quite get my choosing to be an artist as one of my paths, among writing and journalism. When you live in a small city, where tourism dollars and scamming money is what tickles women's fancy and garners men's respect, being different isn't entirely accepted. To succeed in my dream I've had to work hard to show my friends and family that I can do it. Media and Art Mogul, Yannick's Montegonian Montage, second city coloured collage... How does it sound?<br /></p><p>When people view my work, I feel so powerful, like someone is listening
and reacting to my opinion. It drives me to continue voicing my opinion,
hopefully to make a difference. I will continue to work hard to make my
dream a reality. One day I hope to inspire other children from Montego Bay
who dream of becoming professional artists. My greatest hope would be
to make my city proud.</p><p>Abii Paris, Saba Art Gallery </p><p>In terms of export value, arts and culture industries drive tourism. Arts travellers are ideal tourists, staying longer and spending more to search for genuine cultural experiences, and arts destinations grow local economies by attracting “cashy-er” foreign visitor spending. The percentage of international travellers including art gallery and museum visits on their trip grows yearly, and the share attending concerts, plays, and musicals is growing also. Montego Bay has a prolific host of artists and craft entrepreneurs. Artists such as Hilroy Bulgin, Elgo, Fernendez, Anthony Scott, myself Yannick Pessoa , Danii Noey, Paul-Dean Galimore, Jeffrey Samuels alongside the works of greats like Granville’s Errol Allen and Polish immigrant Michael Lester. I’d love to see tattoo artists in the same space with conventional artists as well as Reader Women or Obeah Man like the fortune tellers in North American Fairs. Craft entrepreneurs like Isis Harris of Isis Impressions, Kameilia Brown of Expressif Wear, Paula Hurlock of Indigo Soul, Hodges, Pablo Peirao Ras Manager of IzizI T-Shirts, Garfield Ustanny whose unique colourful crocus bags designs are unique and epic fashion statements, there is Nandi the Bow Queen and a host of others.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFxIfqAxs9qJ4du5WgFRzHXgo7klcI69_H2P6YhVlb8EdWwJh-NGl2Vn7EIBuPq70dudXpz0saDewejlYUKVSOHB8ccV2UEisa5J4dgE9kWCindMZHsVX6WQC8hvWqXzvSipt5bQA_tmsDXGtS6wPtbjT-8qICJifSSe865Vill-Dk5emgg/s515/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-32-15%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="412" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFxIfqAxs9qJ4du5WgFRzHXgo7klcI69_H2P6YhVlb8EdWwJh-NGl2Vn7EIBuPq70dudXpz0saDewejlYUKVSOHB8ccV2UEisa5J4dgE9kWCindMZHsVX6WQC8hvWqXzvSipt5bQA_tmsDXGtS6wPtbjT-8qICJifSSe865Vill-Dk5emgg/s320/Screenshot%202022-11-23%20at%2014-32-15%20Yannick%20Pessoa%20(%20yahnyk)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videos.png" width="256" /></a></p><p>So whether as a means to advance the arts for their own sake, or to support local artists and local charities, or to grow economic prosperity by leveraging cultural assets, city leaders should explore the value of a Saturday Bazaar, MoBay and community Nite Outs — if the city starts planning now and maybe we can paint a better picture of the city; A City of Heart, a City of Art! Leaders at the Municipal Corporation and Chambers of Commerce, can we come up with a work of heart?<br /></p><p>When we think of resources, we don't always think about creating context for talent development. But that is my hope for the future of artist support and development, especially in small towns, and especially for our young creative people. So here are some thoughts on what that might look like for you if you are a leader in a small town, and interested in the same thing</p><p>Try not to make us feel guilty for not having the same historical memory of past initiatives as the more established artists and leaders in the community. Of course, let us know if something has been tried before, but don't shut us down completely even if the last time it was tried it was a failure. You might scare us away forever. Look at our enthusiasm as an asset, not a threat. And even if it sounds the same as something that's been done before, consider that it might actually be very, very different.<br /><br />Set aside resources specifically for artists under 35.<br /><br />If you're in a position to do so, consider creating a grant program, workshop or fellowship specifically for young artists in small communities. Find ways to help young artists find each other and incentivize collaboration, so that we can deepen our relationships with one another. We tend to stay committed to a place when we feel like we are part of something bigger.</p><p>Yes, we need jobs, economic development and vital services. But we also need the arts–they are the most powerful way to address violence, suicide and addictions. In art there are purpose and meaning; there’s imagination. Most depression and violence can be characterized as the closing of our imagination. What is art but the spirit in each of us to reshape our lives in the face of debilitating and often destructive circumstances? I’m convinced this is as compelling a concern for government and society to address as any other. Art has the power to transform, heal, progress, enrich, and even saves someones life. Without "Art" the E'art'h would be just "eh"! Boring.... Selah<br /></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-10290496466264943922022-05-01T19:23:00.000-07:002022-05-01T19:23:18.789-07:00On Being a Philosopher in Western Jamaica<p></p><blockquote><blockquote>“In order to live, man must act; in order to act, he must make choices; in order to make choices, he must define a code of values; in order to define a code of values, he must know what he is and where he is—i.e., he must know his own nature (including his means of knowledge) and the nature of the universe in which he acts—i.e., he needs metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, which means: philosophy. He cannot escape from this need; his only alternative is whether the philosophy guiding him is to be chosen by his mind or by chance.” <br /><b>~Ayn Rand</b></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfByhJJ4VNyZ9MLARiMFpo8izAOxXzmqPjpubwDNcWwxkzH54MRFArHSMQ0tvEl-j6pa3OAitayNLfBGr4_rv9clP0EwM7q8w0Q3OjUKC2B-JkBRzV56JspvRbPjle7du1owhfDMisSqAznNrW6NwRaFtJbCLPLeTBGEbhNXQrFV8W23ktg/s720/cartoon-5123417_960_720.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Unlock your mind" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfByhJJ4VNyZ9MLARiMFpo8izAOxXzmqPjpubwDNcWwxkzH54MRFArHSMQ0tvEl-j6pa3OAitayNLfBGr4_rv9clP0EwM7q8w0Q3OjUKC2B-JkBRzV56JspvRbPjle7du1owhfDMisSqAznNrW6NwRaFtJbCLPLeTBGEbhNXQrFV8W23ktg/w200-h200/cartoon-5123417_960_720.jpg" title="Unlock your mind" width="200" /></a><br /></blockquote><p>In an age of M.B.A.'s and computer scientists, still thousands of university and college students graduate each year with a bachelor's degree in the ancient discipline known as Philosophy. Sometimes their parents and friends wonder what will happen to them... I am one such student, a UWI, Mona graduate with a degree in philosophy. I live in Montego Bay, Jamaica and this is my tale and journey in the 21st century making my way in the world. This article is a record of my experience as a philosopher in western Jamaica and not so much a defense of philosophy, though I suspect some of that will emerge in the writing eventually.<br /></p><p>The advancements of science and technology, the progress and achievements of some disciplines within the fields of humanities all tend to engender relative indifference to Philosophy which is sometimes considered abstract, speculative and as a career, non-professional and less lucrative. Lots and lots of people say why philosophy? What of other philosophy majors? What do they do when confronted with the real world, where there are groceries to buy and mortgages to pay? How do they compete for jobs with all those sensible accounting and engineering majors? Sigh... The quest for the utility of or the question of the futility of Philosophy is a real concern to parents and the public especially in a world that currently progresses on the provisions of post-modernity... I don't propose to answer that question at all. And for those of you out there who measure standing, status and merit based on material gain and financial success well, I suspect this discourse isn't for you.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2h-0_gVPXCAsafQgZuukx_d4_rc4-LuJpgRN9WaRfWgSwxG4lmPMiSC56Z3p8EJqvFDRHW3lOptXRlZ3jbqk_jhecrGjMO6OGsihLeIe--muEppIJhJ-FxyYe3xHas8iQk4QA28ZOaMlbRK9sVtY2qilThT_pAVjVvHkfPsFEP_lqXnMSA/s640/transcend-612458_640.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="640" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2h-0_gVPXCAsafQgZuukx_d4_rc4-LuJpgRN9WaRfWgSwxG4lmPMiSC56Z3p8EJqvFDRHW3lOptXRlZ3jbqk_jhecrGjMO6OGsihLeIe--muEppIJhJ-FxyYe3xHas8iQk4QA28ZOaMlbRK9sVtY2qilThT_pAVjVvHkfPsFEP_lqXnMSA/s320/transcend-612458_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>What I can tell you though... is that philosophy has caused me to think about thinking. I was always and old soul, filled with nostalgia and redolence, so thinking was never ever merely a shallow thing or ever done less than consciously for me. Yes, philosophy helped me question myself even more deeply. To question my reasoning and to identify flaws and errors in thought. Oh and it gave me more tools with which to analyze art, literature and culture. It made me appreciate the philosophical discourse taking place in The Matrix, Star Trek TNG, WandaVision, Comics like Asterix and Obelix as well as Calvin and Hobbes, Lord of the Rings and so much more. Yeah... it has armed me with tools to dissect pop culture and mainstream media.I keep up with philosophy not only because I find it incredibly interesting; I have also found it to be remarkably useful. Yep I read Cornel West and watch him on Youtube, I actively follow Noam Chomsky, Arundhati Roy, Slavoj Žižek, Thomas Sowell, Russel Brand, Jimmy Dore, Joe Rogan and so many more.</p><p>Long before I had ever studied Philosophy academically, Mr. Spock made me a utilitarian when I imbibed and embedded the mantra "the good of the many, outweighs the good of the few!" The Vulcans and Data on a whole made me employ the stoicism they eschewed. These ideas fermented in a child in a left leaning household who believed in Michael Manley's democratic socialism, a socialism reflected in my mother's life as a social worker, my grand mother's political activism and the general Christian sense of charity, infected with a world where even Jesus seemed socialist... when I became obsessed with Spider-Man as a hero and again bludgeoned with the philosophical mantra of "with great power, comes great responsibility... phew I was chock full of Philosophy. My parents even wanted my middle name to be Nestor, god of wisdom, it ended up being Nesta after our own musical philosopher. My stars seemed headed on this path with me.<br /></p><p>So you see Philosophy has undoubtedly helped me become more effective at clearly communicating my own ideas to others. It has also made it easier for me to understand and critically engage with others’ views. More generally, studying philosophy has made me a better, more analytical thinker – and this is a reward that I have found to be immensely valuable in nearly all aspects of my life, particularly in both an age globally and locally where "dumbing down" is a thing and "critical thinking skills" is a buzz term. So from pondering the 'big questions' in life to overcoming the minutia and small stuff, the skills that I learned through studying philosophy have helped me every step of the way. I try more than ever not to sweat the small stuff.<br /></p><p>Now on to... What do we believe and why do we believe it? Who are we and why are we here? What ought we do and why should we do it? Well it is these types of questions Philosophy encourages. It's about critical and systematic inquiry into fundamental questions of right and wrong, truth and falsehood, the meaning of life, and the nature of reality, knowledge and society. More than any other discipline, philosophy explores the core issues of the Western intellectual tradition. Philosophy leads persons to formulate questions and follow arguments. <br /><br />Of course, philosophy is much more than critical reasoning. We are persons who live in a world that exceeds our ability fully understand. We are bound by time and subject to changes. We laugh. We cry. And in the deepest moments we recognize an urge to find meaning in all of this.<br /><br />Being a product of a society that is struggling through post-modern thinking as well as colonial and post-colonial ideas, philosophy has been relegated to the shelf. Truth has been deemed impossible to know. Reality is now subjective and morals have become relative. I have not been able to accept this age of absurdity and nihilism. However, philosophy opens up 3000 years of human genius. It gives us a means to methodically apply our ability to reason to interpret the cosmos and propel the very meaning of life itself. It provides an means of understanding and communicating truth.</p><p>Did you know there was an idea floating around that continuously following the first link of any Wikipedia article will eventually lead to “Philosophy”? On reading the article it sounded like a reasonable assertion, one that makes a certain amount of sense in retrospect: any description of something will typically use more general terms. Following that idea will eventually lead… somewhere. So here’s an easy experiment you can do: Pick a Wikipedia page at random. Then, click on the very first hyperlink you see, and repeat. Eventually, you will reach the philosophy page. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlW2RJYcYQ7hmMyLzTk45M9hrjx_lGau5OR7VLIUw73eOwmGhbxsZm6cU1mtT-nwrEfDZD9M1c7oVQj44XJcDMn9aTxqm6nI2MC3XA875cB2O3hq80xS-EyVNBKURF6q-1o9M1GcLY6jB3XRGUEvmgJ1BkMtVs4dlVjCjGmBwHETyR55j2BQ/s600/wikipedia.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="600" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlW2RJYcYQ7hmMyLzTk45M9hrjx_lGau5OR7VLIUw73eOwmGhbxsZm6cU1mtT-nwrEfDZD9M1c7oVQj44XJcDMn9aTxqm6nI2MC3XA875cB2O3hq80xS-EyVNBKURF6q-1o9M1GcLY6jB3XRGUEvmgJ1BkMtVs4dlVjCjGmBwHETyR55j2BQ/s320/wikipedia.png" width="320" /></a></div><p>In the field of Law, Jurisprudence (the philosophy of law) is essential for formulation of legal theories. In the field of Education, Philosophy is crucial in the areas of pedagogy, educational foundations, management and policies. Ethics is relevant to all facets of life. Within its own academic field, there is philosophy of virtually all disciplines which questions fundamental assumptions of such disciplines. Thus, Philosophy’s relevance remains ineluctable, inescapable and inevitable.<br /></p><p>The study of philosophy provides answers to some of the world’s most
existential questions revolving around right and wrong, truth and
falsehood, the meaning of life, and the nature of human beings and the
reality in which they live. Philosophy encourages critical and
systematic thinking, explores core issues of intellectual tradition, and
offers great preparation for life. Doesn't this sound like something Jamaican society could use?<br /></p><p>Philosophy drives me to spend a lot of time doing research that involves reading, writing, experimental work, and data analysis. The reading material can include academic and scholarly journals, articles, and books while in terms of writing philosophy comes out in blogging, publishing articles, op-eds, and much more. Despite the common perception, philosophy majors appear to do remarkably well. That, at least, is the conclusion one can draw from an unscientific survey, 20 years after graduation, of the class of 1977 at four schools: Princeton University, the University of Virginia, the University of Nebraska and Texas A & M University.<br /><br />Those 40-somethings fell in love with philosophy almost by accident and went on to careers in other fields. But for the most part they are convinced that their studies, which covered logic and ethics among other topics, helped them in their jobs and their lives. Their professional success may stem from the fact that philosophy students seem more likely than those with other degrees to attend graduate or professional school. Of 20 philosophy majors interviewed from the four universities, only four had not added a graduate or professional degree. <br /></p><p>I graduated from Cornwall College in the Spring of 1999 after finishing GCSE "A" levels, then I did a certificate course in Journalism which prompted me to apply to Carimac at the UWI Mona in 2000. I got accept the August of 2000 and made my way to Kingston after a lifetime in Montego Bay. I entered my Freshman year with the intention to major in media and a minor in cultural studies, but after taking an Introduction to Philosophy lecture in my first semester, I was so excited by Philosophy that I decided to change majors. Studying Philosophy taught me new ways of thinking, reading, and writing that were challenging and stimulating. I genuinely enjoyed all of my classes which was a first in a long time.<br /></p><p>Studying philosophy is not a requirement for writing jokes but it allowed me to realize how to quickly get to the point or what is commonly called the butt of a joke. This can be a handy skill when doing public speaking and being an entertaining raconteur. I also came to realized paradoxes are funny ways to make jokes, also reductio ad absurdum, which mean reduce to absurdity, essential this cued me to try and decipher the logic to jokes. Granted I am not a comic or comedian I am of the belief that stand-up comics are the modern day philosophers, characters like Jimmy Dore, Russel Brand, Bill Maher, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Richard Pryor, Bill Cosby and so many more. Telling jokes is actually very hard and sometimes comes with a depression caused by the existential rigors that come with pulling the strings of our social fabric, upsetting status quo and poking fun at power. At worst dark humor can sometimes be like looking into a mirror darkly I suppose.<br /></p><p>Undoubtedly philosophy informs and influences the way I go about doing things, it's given me a sense of the complications that we face as human beings. While at the same time it also gives me a sense of the beauty and wonder of life. It helps me understand people in dire circumstances. However of all the gifts that this philosophy degree has given me is- creativity! It is probably the most important. I have always been an artist and drawing all my life, but philosophy infused my art and design with meaning and new concepts. It brought me to the Fibonacci sequence and golden ratio and applying them to design, and so much more. <br /><br />When I told my parents that I was going to major in philosophy, they
were concerned about what I would do after graduation. The most common question I got when I told people of my philosophy major was “What are you going to do with that degree?”, as if the only reason to go to college is to get a job. I certainly understand that sentiment, but philosophy prepared me for a job the way a major should while also providing the benefits of studying arts and humanities that make you a well-rounded and adjusted person outside of your job—in what is also known as your life. Majoring in
Philosophy was, without a doubt, the right choice for me. Philosophy has been so helpful to me in figuring out what news sources are best to digest, assigning meaning to relationships and life's path, navigating faith from Christian to Atheist to Rastafari, evolving from Pan-African to Afrofuturist, it has made me master of trivia like my father, playing video games and solving villains riddles to get to the next level, and my personal favorites: defending Spider-man as the greatest superhero, Christian Renaldo as the greatest footballer of this generational crop, defending Marvel Comics vs DC fanatics, defending Linux in a debate of Windows vs Mac, defending Ujamaa, Ubuntu and the leftist ideologies. Those things make up my world of urban street philosophy. <br /></p><p>My philosophy classes with Earl McKenzie, Dr. Bewaji and Bamikole, Ms. Roxanne Burton, engaged, challenged, and even impassioned me in ways other classes did not. Years later it would be that academic motivation that would drive me to do well and helped me get into law school, granted I have had to defer due to the rigors of a freelance life, economic pursuits and child-rearing. What I learned was invaluable both during law school and my career path as entrepreneur, journalist, writer, graphic designer and artist. Philosophy differs from other degrees because it changes how you think,
as opposed to requiring you to regurgitate information onto a test. My
philosophical studies and relationship with media directly impacted my choice to pursue career in Law where I still hope to specialize in Intellectual property. If real property is finite and so lucrative, as someone who generates content it seems to me intellectual property, ideas, intangible things are infinite and hence so much more lucrative than the finite real property.<br /></p><p>Philosophy has also informed my other spheres of endeavor; as an independent author, blogger and newspaper columnist, I strive to inject provocative thought into everything I write. Good stories entertain, while great stories both entertain and make their readers consider and think about profound questions. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">The Major Lessons I've Learned from Philosophy</h3><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Certainty and Ambiguity</b>: There is very little I am absolutely certain of in life. I hold all beliefs with a certain degree of doubt and some skepticism. However I am not without conviction and whenever there is a need to act, I do in spite of and despite my skepticism. I am no longer off put by uncertainty and doubt is my constant companion.<br /><br /></li><li><b>Opinion</b>: I hold strong opinions but they are subject to constant rigor tests always being measured and weighed against new information. I have always found it necessary to validate my ideas constantly. I believe that I should have the ability to “see” and “hear” evidence that may be contrary to the opinions that I have held.<br /><b><br /></b></li><li><b>The Balancing Act</b>: As far as I have seen, the balanced life has proven to a myth; a concoction. I try to live a life of counterbalance as I constantly adjust priorities to achieve what might appear as a balance. I just focus on what’s most important at the moment and remain undistributed as much as possible.<br /> <br /></li><li><b>Mindfulness</b>: I have perpetual To-do lists, a scheduler but I am not beholden to them. For me to know and believe that tasks that I do are aligned with my purpose is paramount. Purpose is my foundation and priority decides the action. Productivity only helps me to be efficient. Those 3 P's are my mental keys to mindfulness... Purpose, priority and productivity!</li></ol><p>That's it for now, Selah! <br /></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-78541166246948085102022-04-12T11:31:00.003-07:002022-05-02T11:06:37.982-07:00Religion’s Impact on a young Jamaican Psyche<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">“There is a cult of ignorance in the United States, and there has always been. The strain of anti-intellectualism has been a constant thread winding its way through our political and cultural life, nurtured by the false notion that democracy means that 'my ignorance is just as good as your knowledge.”</span><br /></p><blockquote><span style="font-size: x-small;">― Issac Asimov</span></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></blockquote><p>This week I think it reasonable to open my article with a quote from a Sci-Fi writer as we are living in some really sci-fi times, with bizarre cults and a fracturing society. I want to examine how religion affects the minds of Jamaican youth and how it impacted mine. Here is my story…</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRdfgW349oCECEU0G6GhyXtzGXDcBxAu8lZ-3UP0pL9hzRkSVOgffTNj4JedvsqbhbUSC_0yD4Spzr2_fhLR1rB9w9vLAqbpRiwsF_D4-XwegZhRI-7xpGFy2EtPbXeKvAigyRuE9lor7U11w0vERmmhnpo059AdWawn_5Q_qsmdG4qu6Yg/s720/cartoon-5124004_960_720.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRdfgW349oCECEU0G6GhyXtzGXDcBxAu8lZ-3UP0pL9hzRkSVOgffTNj4JedvsqbhbUSC_0yD4Spzr2_fhLR1rB9w9vLAqbpRiwsF_D4-XwegZhRI-7xpGFy2EtPbXeKvAigyRuE9lor7U11w0vERmmhnpo059AdWawn_5Q_qsmdG4qu6Yg/w200-h200/cartoon-5124004_960_720.png" width="200" /></a></div><p> At age 10, I became an atheist. Today as it pertains to God I am agnostic leaning to atheist, as a Rastafari, my faith is hinged on pan africanism, afrofuturism and a spirituality more akin to archaeology and anthropology of everything African... From ancient gods to ancestors. However, how did I become this person, how did a 10 year old in Norwood, Montego Bay become an atheist or an agnostic?<br /></p><p><br />Well I attended many churches. First one I mainly remember well is Holy Trinity out by Westgate, where my beloved Grand Ma was a devout member. I remember my terrifying christening there... a ritual that I resisted since it wasn't my own volition. I remember the Father well, a well mannered enough man but that church bored me to tears and was steeped in Montego Bay's social politics. Or so it seemed to me as a young one. Then when I began attending Mt. Alvernia Prep Catholicism was introduced to me but my domestic set up was anti Catholic to a degree and very wary of homosexuality and catomite altered altar boys, and from my young perspective seeing their church attire and sometimes smoking priests gave even the young me the impression this place was at once too liberal in some regard and yet wound up in chants and ritual, and was just as boring in sound and song as Anglican.</p><p><a href="#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2T6p4YLcOWeXyeqOuQs-qNgIA-iUAXCzTH1na0GhfnftYb8CoRtCSM9bE7mg0rDF1s1Ho9XXu6S1OCCaji5lQ1GJiu3Hd_YuBwSg6mQ5lrfrfCd2CTIJKsRSR8R_JGhNoOTTAPWCr54U0pRdn58vX2GJubU7o8N3qO7DPMs6wD1ERPNneg/w200-h200/XaviersScoolForGifted-Poster-Temp_866x.png" /></a><br /><br />My mother dabbled in the world of Pentecostal church with one Pastor Nigel who was killed in a house robbery at Bogue. She would eventually settle at Hillview Baptist church where many a community youth I were familiar with went and so I felt comfortable there and the service wasn't that boring... and by the time I was in grade 3, I had watched The Robe and Jesus of Nazareth so many times that I one day became so stupefied by Jesus' sacrifice and peaceful way that I to my chagrin then said to my mother that I wanted to be " A fighter for Jesus". An incident my cousin Camara Brown and brother Dax Pessoa never fail to remind me about or gimmicks me about and oh how I cringe hearing the tale repeated. My family was elated, especially my mother. And like a well brainwashed soldier, high on Jesus hopped up an reinforced by Peter Parker Spider-man and his motto of great power brings great responsibility, Star Trek and Data's and Spock's brands of stoicism and utilitarian logic "the good of the many outweighs the good of the few".</p><p><a href="#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDBhtIC5pfjdhXe0Rln4hEXXR0-C_wDh3qZf1TMMNCNZ9kwN1jDhr2DhFmsmd9OYSxwS7E1B5egfc0JMQa42TTRUX19xe5SkrJ1RXiaJRynUUmlzyk7ZksIJYxrXn2BGH3KAM5cbSYDAGMU5PMTYDAmv8j5AJThlK6Hlalx4ThycoMn5ntgw/s320/9780807031056.jpeg" /></a><br /><br />Imagine the melee of ideas like these in the mind of a black child that believed his mother sang young gifted and black to him, whose grandma was in the UNIA... Imagine the mind molded in a Christian yet pan African household... I was charged up... a young black superhero... young gifted and black... I was the X-Men, Malcolm X-Men School for gifted... “Mi start get up early go church walk by mi self, go Sunday school, stay for big church, trying to get more moral more good a try understand God’s will... What did he want me to do etc? Granted hormones had become a problem, I went to church religiously and imbibed the message though as an early puberty child, I was lusting after the young girls in tight dresses, plus maybe some of my mother’s friends in all their church dress plumpness and pulchritude.</p><p> <a href="#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_oZxtEv8RgYnZ2Djp76EjAY_B1DzewkVFKIM1JL4Un4ck4I2xUbgs7ahx-QRskQ4SOcm1zb-DYW77MZ3PN6YiDKYLwXlfGBpy7YG113xonA7_KNJUL_8f9EoEPD_aEBFI0-zGIc7WIr1ZleTLwGyZSlmog2_uaewOtvXWwwA6bM9zig9Wg/s320/259852_600x315.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Beyond that I was good and ready to be a saint… I really did consider being a pastor… eeek! Oh I prayed to have wisdom like Solomon after al my mother wanted my middle name to be Nestor god of wisdom and my father wanted it to be the wise nesta Marley, I prayed like Samuel to be chosen, to ask for wisdom and granted health and length of days… “yep be a wise 'gallis' like Solomon and not to be gal clown like Samson.” Oh how silly I was. But I took spiritual matters and science very seriously from the day I was born. These meant everything to me, them and Africa… so they had to collide.<br /><br />As in the back of my mind was marinating a debate that had happened one Sunday on the verandah, my father and uncles were debating God. My uncle Hugh Thompson a devout atheist was at it against my uncle David Brown a very religious man, they had asked my father to weigh in and I remembered his words well, "If Zeus and such are Greek and Norse and Roman mythology, then our religion might just be Jewish mythology" and forever that moment it dawned on my that I simply assumed Christians were right. But that didn't cause my divorce psychologically from church.</p><p><a href="#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvyOb-VcBSe-QEa3EtC1lmCtcW8uUUx7rFOQvheqJYWhv2E3rtEtM2qqm7zQL8z6-78H4IKyVFJuc4kelp8T21BMp6ydDz6zk6wNptimOeJAz6ZfxeTW8AvudExNiBzB37P3JaicJkZTtoZW8qRXvsfKkG4TlaA3BeLHA9jvgDgiMOXGROIA/s320/tumblr_nk8zhr4emt1u30k2to1_640.jpg" /></a><br /><br />It came one Sunday when my Sunday school teacher were giving a Sunday school lesson on revelations, it was my common entrance year, but what in the sermon caused the great divorce and moment of cognitive dissonance is when she informed be Jews get a second chance on Judgement day but gentile which we all were would be judged and if not found worthy would be tossed in hell fire... how could even God be sort of racist and biased and if he didn't rather me or black people it can't work and I wanted no more part in it and maybe it was Jewish mythology and not my story or mythos. I would years later find out Pessoa is a Jewish last name but little comfort anyway. And so I wrestled with it inside. And when I mentioned it to friends they all looked scared or told me not to think so much. When I told my mother it became a family crisis for all of high school. I was recommended to speak with this person or that parson... only for all my questions to come up unanswered but everyone wanted me to just accept without irrefutable proof or sound logic and science that God is real... I was no longer the good son but now spaced out, a possible high school weed head even though I never knew what a spliff was, I was wayward etc.. I was a victim of fads, they said I was easily swayed.<br /><br />The tribulations of not walking in religious norm followed me to the UWI, where in my first semester a big argument with Ms. Kitty after she attacked me as the devil worshiper (I wonder if she remembers that!), whilst I was reasoning with someone else on Atheism. She and that debate led a portion of people to dub me as devil boy... ironic that at home in my community I was called Jesus… but I was persecuted over my opinion and belief. So when I say I understand the rigors of being ostracized by Christians and Christianity to be ridiculed and persecuted despite all my logic and scientific methodology, my critical thinking.... I understand how a religion can put enmity in family, the familiar and the familial.<a href="#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JS9H_9f8nB6xNGwt8nGvk6245ro4NAWY5pOwZHdYK2KJHUz1HIW-Mq544gYnXXDZaiZKM-CSlfoDDnN_GseUMmmtUcvQWXKmaumb6jv9u-W_GKuYPdseFGwcrxZSM5HrJ6ygqnQ-IrfcIqM1VjObXS3OhQ-xwL8_1VDYlzxybNrQtxBMcw/s320/XMansionSale.png" /></a><br /><br />So let us not heap scorn and condemnation in the Pathway congregation... Who controls your mind... is it Mark Zuckerberg, Rachel Maddow, Jewish myth writers who goads yours mind and prompts your ideas who coaxed you and cajoled your brain? Did the influence of external thought and ideas from outside u ever make u take stance and divides from friends and family?<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">About the author: Yannick Nesta Pessoa B.A. is Jamaica’s first blogger, a Social Advocate, Community Activist and Philosopher. Follow on Twitter & Instagram @yahnyk. Follow on Youtube @ and Reply to yannickpessoa@gmail.com</span></b></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-21227564908561915942022-04-10T20:50:00.002-07:002022-05-01T20:21:49.412-07:00A Concise History of MoBay<p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" height="180" src="https://youtube.com/embed/2LXSrIBZqtc" style="background-image: url(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/2LXSrIBZqtc/hqdefault.jpg);" width="320"></iframe></p>
Montego Bay is the most urban setting in St. James. An early map of Jamaica has Montego Bay listed as “Bahia de Manteca” or “Lard Bay,” so called because of the lard making industry made possible by the hunting of wild boars which populated the surrounding hills. Montego Bay was a sugar and banana town but the sugar factories were closed and bananas are now shipped out from Kingston and Port Antonio.
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Montego Bay is Jamaica’s second largest city. According to the Planning Institute of Jamaica, Montego Bay is also among the top five fastest growing urban centres in the country. The growth is spurred by tourism, which is the major foreign exchange earner for the parish of St. James. The high number of tourist attractions and resorts in Montego Bay provide employment for hundreds of Jamaicans. Over 80 per cent of the entire parish is dependent on tourism.Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-15606845666379906992022-03-25T07:46:00.000-07:002022-03-25T07:46:01.503-07:00Being a Graphic Designer in Western Jamaica<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPIJFAsILnuuI6GqzxNlggKIXy499HhFNXHtUpvoo7yG-4lvmjEg7UP-8xvjeK_XT-j7GWQksqoCPb85E06j5EtvAGgdIAGm3fcxvSmt0TxT-zvDqomN4XIeRMGa5bfdWL1B4XEekkOypF5Gt3mQ0TtwKV5bSKjG_qbNTf0Ofy5UA8rSz80g/s674/reggaegraphicdesign.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="674" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPIJFAsILnuuI6GqzxNlggKIXy499HhFNXHtUpvoo7yG-4lvmjEg7UP-8xvjeK_XT-j7GWQksqoCPb85E06j5EtvAGgdIAGm3fcxvSmt0TxT-zvDqomN4XIeRMGa5bfdWL1B4XEekkOypF5Gt3mQ0TtwKV5bSKjG_qbNTf0Ofy5UA8rSz80g/s320/reggaegraphicdesign.png" width="320" /></a></div>When I was in grade 6 at Mt. Alvernia Prep., the class was paired with foreign students for pen-pals, to practice letter writing and foster cross cultural experience. I went home got my mother's help and wrote a nice introductory letter. Now, beyond my experience in the 1980's tourist industry and slights at duty free in-bond shops, I didn't have an experience with racism that had left an indelible mark till receiving my response letter from my pen-pal. The letter to my horror was riddled with condescending questions like do you have classes under trees and do you wear grass skirts and such. Coming from a Pan African Christian home this was an affront of the highest order. From then on I have come to realize that when the world thinks about Jamaica the first thing that comes to the collective thoughts of people from the western hemisphere are the pivotal 1960’s rural poverty images, of zinc fences, shanty towns, marijuana smoking men and matted hair. Some may be aware of the allure of sun, sand and sex. Reggae and Bob Marley did little to diminish the sexual mystique. Afterwards it also became known as the country which for one reason or the other was the perennial exporter of various types of drugs. Was this a failure in our messaging our visual communique?<br /><p></p><p> This clash of cultures and divergent realities reflect the duality of perception. I am not saying we aren’t steeped in a variety of problems, far from it. Hence, working in the developing world can carry unique problems and circumstances not perceived by graphic designers and artists in the developed nations. Hence I hope this article elucidates my progress and journey as a designer growing and working in the wonderful conundrum and cultural melting pot that is Jamaica and the Caribbean <br /></p><p>Visual communication is an inextricable part of human history. It has existed as long as there has been the need to make marks or leave traces, to communicate through signs and symbols rather than the spoken word. In the contemporary world the activity of organizing signs and symbols, or words and images, for public exchange is recognized as graphic design - a specialist area of the broader field of design. Just as there have been design movements and aesthetics born all over the world, Jamaica and her people too have formed it's own unique systems of visual hierarchy, layout and style. Our unique history, environment and challenges have given rise to our own aesthetic and cues for communication.<br /></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidgXnNpaw5IjDd4GpfR10xJpS0nZIReP0IRgv-zHgVz9Kl2wCYjPviwiNhdIRqI6zVOya108m2A3JAZSbohE1yGy1wRQVMVsqawCMmXbBSAY6xkgk4wjW2ahq6-VkhQbXIvLWxnC1YF6EXt9ufBs1lrkwFz_-83jYrhkBEgAkgrG-8A_9kig/s708/640px-1852_Arnaboldi_advert_Kingston_Jamaica.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidgXnNpaw5IjDd4GpfR10xJpS0nZIReP0IRgv-zHgVz9Kl2wCYjPviwiNhdIRqI6zVOya108m2A3JAZSbohE1yGy1wRQVMVsqawCMmXbBSAY6xkgk4wjW2ahq6-VkhQbXIvLWxnC1YF6EXt9ufBs1lrkwFz_-83jYrhkBEgAkgrG-8A_9kig/w290-h320/640px-1852_Arnaboldi_advert_Kingston_Jamaica.png" width="290" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today graphic design in Jamaica embraces printed material from the smallest ephemeral item - a stamp, label or ticket - to publication design in the form of the interiors and exteriors of books and magazines. It also includes a robust and very local poster and advertising design culture, as well as trademarks, logos and symbols. Then there are the more convention yet extensive systems of information design - signage in the built environment, exhibitions and corporate identities for companies, all often developed in close association with architectural practices that are informed by our Victorian and Spanish past yet still being influence by Deco and a modern minimalism. <br /></div><p>
Over the last decade I've watched the practice of graphic design as it has undergone momentous change as pixels have become a handy substitute for print and software has lessened the profession's reliance on its traditional tools of pen and paper. In no other discipline of design has computer technology had Reich a transforming impact. Throughout our daily lives we are surrounded and peppered by graphic messages. Indeed they have become so much a part of the fabric of every-day modern life - from break-fast cereal packaging and advertising 3 billboards to logos on clothes and television company identities - that often we register their codes only on a subconscious level.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8wVHDEwglTe71M45w-TBH65bfQ8xNCKEyRkEAU-wjAXl75oPrEHlU8Qn7TbdZJDc_EARJKOAcA9Ww1D5T60_GTfK_AUp99-7C6kRdPxlBNQ_BJ-ZCQ_XFeWUJIwSKABaTCVIKgSuDdIinUNPoZsdTWom3_CuHBRco0YljWPdZkA-I93fmig/s908/%22GINGER_ALE,_FROM_PURE_JAMAICA_GINGER%22_ad_in_1880_-_from,_The_Chemist_and_Druggist_(electronic_resource)_(IA_b19974760M0267)_(page_125_crop).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8wVHDEwglTe71M45w-TBH65bfQ8xNCKEyRkEAU-wjAXl75oPrEHlU8Qn7TbdZJDc_EARJKOAcA9Ww1D5T60_GTfK_AUp99-7C6kRdPxlBNQ_BJ-ZCQ_XFeWUJIwSKABaTCVIKgSuDdIinUNPoZsdTWom3_CuHBRco0YljWPdZkA-I93fmig/s320/%22GINGER_ALE,_FROM_PURE_JAMAICA_GINGER%22_ad_in_1880_-_from,_The_Chemist_and_Druggist_(electronic_resource)_(IA_b19974760M0267)_(page_125_crop).jpg" width="226" /></a></div> <p></p><p>Working in Western Jamaica is always challenging as it is an environment, where the push for excellence is always marred and pegged down by an ever changing set of economic obstacles, and technical variables though if you ask me I believe that ultimately these challenges will help make you a better designer. Anyhow my journey started way back in 2001 when I took a graphic design course in Kingston, where I was tutored by one Mr. Marcel Robinson, who gave me my introduction to Corel Draw (I still remember that hot air balloon logo with fondness) and the theories of design. That was a time when the concept of computer was still one of a luxury item in Jamaica, but my exposure to them though came earlier in the 80's but was confined to a Commodore 64 that I had to write the Basic code for PacMan to play it. After that my next set of exposure would be to some access in my high school and prep school computer laboratories and the only use that we had for them was to play ancient PC Games, some of them in DOS. I remember being smitten with the early aerial view incarnations of Grand Theft Auto, Minesweeper, Taipei and Solitaire. Midway during high school my siblings and I got a computer at home. In the back of my mind I always had intentions of doing designs especially after seeing kids in my high school library using cut outs and a photocopier to make a flyer or poster, that incident cemented for me the union of art and technology.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHg3uDSoRkZXbMZ_zp1bWZWw344AXrbZUZIy6v72z6xw6JSEZTf32HDOZwbJGj_u-FT09EkBQAvddh7gIAo2Fz_Rmgh__mqyLZape-I6NDK6LkzPNek6rRRhmZNPbmUPcd7-szrAdEIqf-iM_9fDbuQzD_KZAAhiSi90WDGZl9RieY3E28EA/s700/coreldraw.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="700" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHg3uDSoRkZXbMZ_zp1bWZWw344AXrbZUZIy6v72z6xw6JSEZTf32HDOZwbJGj_u-FT09EkBQAvddh7gIAo2Fz_Rmgh__mqyLZape-I6NDK6LkzPNek6rRRhmZNPbmUPcd7-szrAdEIqf-iM_9fDbuQzD_KZAAhiSi90WDGZl9RieY3E28EA/s320/coreldraw.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div> <br />As my progress in illustrating on a Pentium III Windows® machine went forward smoothly, I got introduced to a variety of software such as Blender, Gimp, Inkscape, and more. My enterprising nature brought me to Macs and Linux desktops. I had fallen in love with the idea of transforming pictures and mashing colors together, and the thrill of creativity. I had some idea of the basic tenets of graphic design and color theory but no formal training in these notions, so eventually I dove into Graphic Design books that I could pick up at our local bookstore franchise Sangster's or at Computer stores. After working on odd gigs at the University of the West Indies, Mona while doing a philosophy degree, I got introduced to Macromedia Freehand and Flash for vector drawing and animation. This realm of digital creation was my major foray into the vast world of design which wouldn’t have been possible without the ‘pirated’ copies of these high end software (I have shifted my software use to free and opensource) Although I will be forever grateful for the creators of these software, there really wasn’t any way that I could honor their work by buying their product. They were too expensive for a starving artist in Jamaica's second city. <p>Another pivotal moment in my life as a graphic designer came in the period of 2004 to 2006. In these three years I did two things that shaped my design inclinations, the first I got to work in a lot of jobs as a freelance designer. The second, after hanging with Computer Science crowd I made the hard leap into open source. The impact of these actions resulted in my gaining direct touch with the business side of being a designer and the second introduced me to the interesting world of coding, which would lend itself to me learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaJVPsFoHmzCTJthcFJeHaz9fErrfZ3BFZQ32QNm3sXGbloefKHHfaQo6LqsuTuyz0GSQzTKcljah3_xMbwwKEAZ2Q02JgVv7ch8PDEaUJW_UDSKBGm1eGA4779NbZNh6SRz21UiIu-U89dATxuggLyYOqRAvQfcgD8VPgICJwkO_52U3Zg/s1754/IMG_1776.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="1754" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaJVPsFoHmzCTJthcFJeHaz9fErrfZ3BFZQ32QNm3sXGbloefKHHfaQo6LqsuTuyz0GSQzTKcljah3_xMbwwKEAZ2Q02JgVv7ch8PDEaUJW_UDSKBGm1eGA4779NbZNh6SRz21UiIu-U89dATxuggLyYOqRAvQfcgD8VPgICJwkO_52U3Zg/s320/IMG_1776.JPG" width="320" /></a><br /><br />Being a freelance designer at the time circa 2004 was a tough time because in those days Jamaican businesses didn’t really rate the importance of branding themselves through graphic design, thus they attached no importance to that side of their advertising strategy. Don't get me wrong everyone wants a logo or a business card but they don't want to pay for it. I can tell you horror stories of hunting down clients who received work and tried to get away without paying. In Jamaica, photographers and videographers tend to be able to command financial respect more and people are more willing to pay. This environmental pressure has led to designers at the time becoming a jack of all trade. We dabbled in everything from flash animation to video and sound editing. Specializing in one discipline was seen as a death warrant because the desires of our employers, clients and the market were fleeting and one had to be able to pivot with the ever changing needs of the moment. Consequently instead of specializing and learning more about the various disciplines found in graphic design, this trend made the majority of the designers, somewhat lesser artists and some lost focus on the importance of the art itself, and by necessity it made designers in western Jamaica a kind of digital Anansi and hustler, where as the developed world romanticized this as the life a digital nomad.<br /><br />Becoming a digital Anansi in this worldwide web prompted me to dig deeper into codes and coding, hard ware and A+ type repairs. It was an interesting experience as it overlapped with my desire to create stuff from the base up, using computers, to understand how things worked under the hood, the magic of ones and zeroes. Concurrently I was pulled deeper into web design since it encompassed the two things that I love most, the internet and design. In these formative years, I also learned the benefits of research as a method to help yield the best possible tools and techniques to produce interesting things. These years refined me from a hustler into a consummate artist, who was more concerned about creating a graphic aesthetic that communicated a new Caribbean message and Afrofuturism. Making money was important but I was yearning for something more as I lived that ‘starving artist’ cliche. This period was where I became somewhat disillusioned with graphic design.<br /><br />The majority of my clients were not looking for the ‘aesthetic’ strength of their products, a lot of them were posters and party flyers for people who didn't pay well and objected if I put black girls on their party flyers. A lot of the rest just wanted something made quickly (in retrospect, I realize it was my inexperience as a designer which through lack of a deep formal education in the field and the lack of proper exposure led me to compromise my creative integrity). Even though I did land some big work, doing T-shirts for Reggae Sumfest, Trelawny Swamp Safari among others, my desire to do graphic designed still waned, and I turned my face towards web design and coding, by that time had already been through Yahoo's geocities and was blogging on this platform. So web design was a natural progression.<br /></p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijUH-EXRde9O5UFTPoya_cYwnavaT-xRlHHEg4qQIZHoBcw7NkN7CCzsVZJvD1LIdtFrwh3uQUU1CXtr4Y3Fmn9EiiYewwIeAuVY7DOYh9LSmbJ3_TWvvwu73yMJs9C2HUjx1Q_0geUqZKxjBl0rIlpF7HTPp_ZRkjmY3SaXerzgc9_8V-gA/s1754/IMG_1975.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="1754" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijUH-EXRde9O5UFTPoya_cYwnavaT-xRlHHEg4qQIZHoBcw7NkN7CCzsVZJvD1LIdtFrwh3uQUU1CXtr4Y3Fmn9EiiYewwIeAuVY7DOYh9LSmbJ3_TWvvwu73yMJs9C2HUjx1Q_0geUqZKxjBl0rIlpF7HTPp_ZRkjmY3SaXerzgc9_8V-gA/s320/IMG_1975.JPG" width="320" /></a><br /><br />To my software knowledge I added the use of Adobe's Photoshop, Indesign and Illustrator, Corel PhotoPaint, and Scribus. I also graduated from Frontpage to Dreamweaver. Try as I may that market was the domain of Kingston techies who won the lucrative business contracts and clients like NGOs. Around 2008 after layout work for Newspapers, writing columns for the Western Mirror, dabbling in editorial cartoons, I somehow wound up at VistaPrint doing copywriting. Then around 2010 — 2012 and the next creative wave to hit Jamaica was multimedia and motion graphics. I had dabbled in Macromedia Director and Flash which gave me some experience, my adventures brought me to working with Montegonian artists to storyboard music videos and do some photography which I loved. </p><p>This is an energetic time for Jamaican graphic design, in terms of the web, illustration and graphic videos like text videos. Motion is where graphics are going and garner premium pay. The field is becoming more mainstream, and the talents out there were getting out and presenting their portfolios for the world to see. Though at the same time we are in an age where apps and templates are a dime a dozen offering consumers prettier graphic options and standards, at the same time creating a generic aesthetic in design which still leaves room for the human element in finding meaningful new expressions in design.<br /><br /><br /></p><p></p><br /><br />Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-6357845191838554662022-02-22T06:56:00.002-08:002022-05-02T11:32:14.812-07:00Introduce Universal Basic Income in Jamaica<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVMw3t0mZza8GN1jQWU9t4MaW-AzAj4MCphDWICoPdvDrsr3zmZxCgX0fru1C_-qsgBjxlJRCvcvYFIhhEp2fIAp4Lt-2ZoFry_fgtqJLYM9N8QJMa1mAtfndBItY89k9hdCxQYvmycfB6UB31Lrpg0joI51zO_zbgu0NwwflYCRYD81QPA/s960/money-6626359_960_720.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="687" data-original-width="960" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVMw3t0mZza8GN1jQWU9t4MaW-AzAj4MCphDWICoPdvDrsr3zmZxCgX0fru1C_-qsgBjxlJRCvcvYFIhhEp2fIAp4Lt-2ZoFry_fgtqJLYM9N8QJMa1mAtfndBItY89k9hdCxQYvmycfB6UB31Lrpg0joI51zO_zbgu0NwwflYCRYD81QPA/s320/money-6626359_960_720.png" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><p>I believe it is time that Jamaica takes radical and new approaches to
solving its socio-economic issues. One new and radical approach being
explored in many cities, states, and nations globally is universal basic
income (UBI), which is a no-strings-attached stipend from the
Government.</p><p>
</p><p>Cities in England, like Bristol, and Los Angeles (LA) in the USA have launched UBI programmes.</p><p>
</p><p>The UBI test run in LA gives over 3,000 families under the
poverty line US$1,000 every month to supplement income. UBI was a major
part of former candidate Andrew Yang's platform in the 2020 Democratic
primaries, reigniting the conversation about UBI in the mainstream.</p><p>
</p><p>Predicting the impact of such an unprecedented upheaval in the
relationship between the State and the individual is unsurprisingly
difficult, though, as is gathering evidence for or against it. There
have been several small-scale trials, but the most ambitious to date
took place in Finland from 2017 to 2018, and the final report was
published in <i> The Guardian</i> a few years ago.</p><p>
</p><p>The study selected 2,000 unemployed people at random and gave
them unconditional monthly payments of €560. Their outcomes were then
compared against 173,000 people on Finland's standard unemployment
benefits.</p><p>
</p><p>The headline finding was that those who received the
unconditional payments reported significantly improved financial and
mental well-being. They also saw a slight improvement in employment,
with recipients working an average of six more days between November
2017 and October 2018 than the control group. This would seem to
contradict fears that such a scheme would demotivate people from seeking
work.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalbA1yvGSUUyqsy96eAGOjmgUy7QPeNQMOtQO50nRFQk57H200IDzW44vl_aZhuvZadmsz-RtCyowR6fkgLJ2fXpnfy6nuCKyLzbrKmalwSKsuT4oihZ3I9HeojiPu8XDLyE13lKfyS1JCnKJTeUmYOeWztS9kIAeFttvGIaot1VItSibyQ/s244/image_thumb" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="244" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalbA1yvGSUUyqsy96eAGOjmgUy7QPeNQMOtQO50nRFQk57H200IDzW44vl_aZhuvZadmsz-RtCyowR6fkgLJ2fXpnfy6nuCKyLzbrKmalwSKsuT4oihZ3I9HeojiPu8XDLyE13lKfyS1JCnKJTeUmYOeWztS9kIAeFttvGIaot1VItSibyQ/s1600/image_thumb" width="244" /></a> <br /></p><p>
</p>
<p>Aside from the raw economic outcomes, though, surveys of the
participants found that they scored better on measures of well-being,
financial security, and confidence in the future. The authors of the
report told <i>The Guardian</i> that the recipients felt more empowered to take on voluntary work or attempt to start new ventures.</p><p>
</p><p>The study can only tell us so much, though. Despite being the
largest trial to date, it's hard to extrapolate the results up to the
scale of a nationwide programme, and it's also impossible to predict
what impact similar interventions would have in countries with very
different cultures and governmental systems.</p><p>
</p><p>Nonetheless, falling in the middle of the biggest global disaster
of this century, the study's release was a timely reminder that it
might be time for politicians around the world to re-evaluate their
relationship with the welfare State.</p><p>
</p><p>So now that we know UBI has been trialled throughout the world,
yet remains out of Jamaica's public and political discussions, it is
time to embrace its possibilities and begin to examine the introduction
of a universal basic income grant (BIG) and drop austerity measures amid
crippling inflation, poverty, and rising unemployment levels and a
health-care crisis.</p><p>
</p><p>A recent survey found that 71 per cent of Europeans now support
UBI, and Pope Francis pushed the idea in his 2020 Easter address.</p><p>
</p><p>Spain's minister for economy and digitalisation Nadia Calvino
Santamaría said the Government would soon roll out some form of basic
income that would stay in place past the end of the novel coronavirus
pandemic.</p><p>
</p><p>I am also disappointed with civil society movements in Jamaica as
they have not entertained or campaigned for the implementation of a
UBI. I contend that $15,500 per month, roughly the average or equivalent
of most UBI programmes internationally, for all unemployed between the
ages of 18 and 59, for starters, would do much to stimulate our stagnant
economy. In time the programme can be expanded to include caregivers,
home-based workers, and workers who earn below the national minimum
wage, till an eventual national roll-out.</p><p>
</p><p>This will bring much-needed relief to millions of Jamaicans who are languishing in poverty.</p><p>
</p><p><b>Yannick Nesta Pessoa </b></p><p>
</p><p><b>yannickpessoa@yahoo.com</b></p><p> </p><p>https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/editorial/introduce-a-universal-basic-income-grant-_244558?profile=1234 <br /></p><br />Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-31954883921411398452022-01-11T12:58:00.001-08:002022-01-11T12:58:12.529-08:00Enemy of the State: The Lampooned Maroons<p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Definition:<br />1- a person who is marooned<br />2- capitalized : a Black person of the West Indies and Guiana in the 17th and 18th centuries who escaped slavery also : a descendant of such a person</span></b><br /></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">The Present Maroon Conundrum<br /></h1><h3 style="text-align: left;">Statehood and Sovereignty</h3><p>It is time for us to uncritically accept that Maroons played a vital role in the continuation of slavery as an institution. What is even more whimsical is that Jamaica currently enjoys amicable relations with governments that were directly responsible for slavery as an institution. What a conundrum!<br /></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAEWJDO2nQY-Ke9FbYoqL_Amj7BfNH9Jobce-sLVCq6TZo4L6G4DqP9hbHxLtz-uXXq_wp-RYtNvdN2P1L8qtQsLSBRIk5z4dKgcu4RseXqp1kw5xDmcnKXD_ptEakFvzr2u285sgLWoDQec2HnjYvz_c02iV1jtSt3IVjl1Ic7Wn2mqqlkg=s1399" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1399" data-original-width="1215" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAEWJDO2nQY-Ke9FbYoqL_Amj7BfNH9Jobce-sLVCq6TZo4L6G4DqP9hbHxLtz-uXXq_wp-RYtNvdN2P1L8qtQsLSBRIk5z4dKgcu4RseXqp1kw5xDmcnKXD_ptEakFvzr2u285sgLWoDQec2HnjYvz_c02iV1jtSt3IVjl1Ic7Wn2mqqlkg=s320" width="278" /></a></div><br /></div><p>There are five Maroon groups in the country, one of which has become a secessionist voice for social upheaval and that is the Accompong strand or branch. Thy have been purporting unsubstantiated claims of being a sovereign State, is being heard through its colonel, Mr. Richard Currie. These utterances have no legal standing, according to several legal
minds. The most obvious demonstration of this is the fact that all
Maroons travel on Jamaican-issued passports. The reality is that in the 12th year of his reign an edict of King George II of Great
Britain and Jamaica empowered John Gutherie and Francis Sadler “to
negotiate and finally conclude a treaty of peace and friendship” with
Colonel Cudjoe and his captains. This would be known as the First Maroon
Treaty of 1739.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiP9CzIPMgXXGT4vqrqytsb32yfEmJG5cleL98O2e2a-_5fa4icvoYfqNyc5Zm-fcLsUG3XcqSaWCS2ETXx6hru8Z6ZuBWYu7RMquLEUwZdh0wnzHaAHQO0h7LBiXZ7gBtBLlaIq3s17bRPbPoVL_RMREpgd55SWJdLpHRTkoNkNGxh7SuI9g=s525" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="525" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiP9CzIPMgXXGT4vqrqytsb32yfEmJG5cleL98O2e2a-_5fa4icvoYfqNyc5Zm-fcLsUG3XcqSaWCS2ETXx6hru8Z6ZuBWYu7RMquLEUwZdh0wnzHaAHQO0h7LBiXZ7gBtBLlaIq3s17bRPbPoVL_RMREpgd55SWJdLpHRTkoNkNGxh7SuI9g=s320" width="320" /></a><br /></p><p>An examination of the Treaty of the Leeward Maroons has indicated up to eight instances that speak to and against the authority and nationhood of the Maroons. The treaty acknowledges the leadership of the colonel by referring to his people as his “subjects” who, being in a “perfect state of freedom and liberty” (Article II)… will enjoy and possess, in perpetuity, land of 1,500 acres “between Trelawney Town and The Cockpits” (Article III). They have the right to trade outside of their bounds, but must do so under a license (Article IV).<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiFFCX4u-7ZC97PGjvqREK9-ugauKUatcabDqwRMpYsAb83Vp-_8J0FvMRox2WY-NZhgjRNqv40W3sVKgQT73U8HwswAR2kS3JcVn2UVoWa7M09Ss_jM0K8ysi53_hcLkgskvTYSiX29c66sci5r15O834rbkEba5_Mf7MezsKkG2VzpvMRQ=s276" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="276" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiFFCX4u-7ZC97PGjvqREK9-ugauKUatcabDqwRMpYsAb83Vp-_8J0FvMRox2WY-NZhgjRNqv40W3sVKgQT73U8HwswAR2kS3JcVn2UVoWa7M09Ss_jM0K8ysi53_hcLkgskvTYSiX29c66sci5r15O834rbkEba5_Mf7MezsKkG2VzpvMRQ" width="276" /></a><br /><br />According to a news item in the Jamaica Observer, the Cabinet has ordered the withholding of funds and support to any entity which claims to be a sovereign State. On Sunday BroGad played bad cop and stomped his foot down by declaring that Jamaica is a unitary State, and as such Accompong falls under the Government of Jamaica's legal ambit and, by extension, the Jamaica Constabulary Force and every government body there is.<br /></p><p></p><p>Maroons are considered by some in academia to be Indigenous Peoples and that they should have rights under the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. But that paradox raises interesting questions as how can Maroons be both indigenous and descended from Africa. I understand indigenous to refer to Native Americans and Aboriginal who are located at a place before our collective or maybe European history has record for. We know maroons are not even unique to Jamaica so how indigenous is it really?</p><p></p><p>There needs to be a consensus as to whether the Maroon communities are either a sovereign proto-state within a State, Imperium in imperio as it is known. Or maybe an indigenous reserve (much like the native indians in the US), or the average town flying the Jamaican flag? Vatican City and Eswatini are examples of this state within a state concept. It is a thing that can be done but Currie needs to be realistic and get about charting a course to statehood rather than proving a lack of legal and historical knowledge. Let us hope Brogad learnt from Busta's lessons and wont be blinded and create another Coral Gardens Massacre so close to our nation's special anniversary of independence.<br /><br /></p><p></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-29966867626030004892022-01-08T05:19:00.001-08:002022-01-08T05:19:08.990-08:00Spirit of Montego Bay Award for Journalism<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FxnhWCf3IoY" width="320" youtube-src-id="FxnhWCf3IoY"></iframe></div><br /> Received this award for journalism last year. So much more work to be done this year!<br /><p></p>Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-80072962762322713822022-01-08T05:09:00.001-08:002022-01-08T05:09:05.860-08:00 Flash Point 2022<p><br /></p><h1 style="text-align: left;">The Eye of the Tiger</h1><p><i></i></p><blockquote><i>“</i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Sometimes, you have to look back in order to understand the things that lie ahead.”</i><br /><b>― Yvonne Woon, Dead Beautiful</b></span></blockquote><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b></b></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXNGM1Ibv-4WYi-Nj2DR2ztCbSi-Ps4yU51ryJdYZqnopPqc-NbOOSSknaLDZ7qUFZUtgay3PmRr2-a26ytYVRCHfcuRhROQM2lPmMUIy4sBC0DEI39U2X6lJzVmFE_Ho-A3xu8VwsOWtMFlrZWNwuvccazajIU6D26eVDh6IyCuhaizW9Xg=s1524" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1116" data-original-width="1524" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXNGM1Ibv-4WYi-Nj2DR2ztCbSi-Ps4yU51ryJdYZqnopPqc-NbOOSSknaLDZ7qUFZUtgay3PmRr2-a26ytYVRCHfcuRhROQM2lPmMUIy4sBC0DEI39U2X6lJzVmFE_Ho-A3xu8VwsOWtMFlrZWNwuvccazajIU6D26eVDh6IyCuhaizW9Xg=s320" width="320" /></a><br /><br />As we look at 2021 in the rearview mirror, Jamaica, let's keep our eyes on the road through 2022. There be many a rut and potholes ahead for this chevied country as we will commemorate its 60th year of alleged political Independence from August 6, 1962. Before that, our beloved island was a British colony. And in discussing the British Monarchy and Jamaica, we cannot do so without acknowledging the history of how the relationship began. In 2001 The Transatlantic slave trade was recognised in the UN Durban Declaration as a crime against humanity. The total scale of loss and underdevelopment caused by the colonial project is almost incalculable. Jamaica's past cannot be undone; that does not mean her future must be determined by terms dictated centuries ago. We must examine this issue keenly, as 2022 is the Chinese year of the tiger. I think as Rasta lions, black panthers, maybe we use the eye of the tiger to examine this matter and to look at our collective future.<br /><br />A rough guide to Jamaica's history goes like this: The island became an imperial colony in 1508 when Spain appropriated an indigenous peoples' land. In 1655, Brits forcefully got hold of the island with barely a battle, and thus the British Empire claimed it. Over time, slaves who seized their freedom joined the indigenous Taino on interior of the isle, eventually being labelled by Europeans as Maroons. The Maroons won one of the wars with British forces circa. 1728-1740 but then lost a second war circa. 1795-1796. In the 1800s, slavery was abolished after the rebellions of Sam Sharpe and Paul Bogle, it was then that Jamaicans derived the right to vote, though the British still maintained power.<br /><br />Kicking off Pan Africanism in the 20th century, Marcus Garvey advanced black nationalism and went on to be the most illustrious black leader of that era. During the Great Depression, workers protested inequality and agitated the authorities in Jamaica and other Caribbean colonies. By 1943, labour leader Alexander Bustamante gained an electoral victory and founded a new, liberal constitution. After the Second World War, Jamaican leadership formulated the government structure to gear up for Independence. In 1962, Bustamante's party the Jamaica Labour Party won the election and he became premier. That year, the Britain's Parliament formally accorded Jamaica Independence, and Bustamante was converted to the independent country's first prime minister.<br /><br />2022 is Jamaica's Flash Point, and in the regional political aftermath of Barbados declaring its republican status, disembarrassing itself of the bonds of England's monarchy, Jamaicans returned to its chant for republican standing. Now to boldly go where Caribbean nations have gone before, our Constitution requires that there be a national referendum, until then we are all loyal subjects of Her Majesty The Queen, her heirs, and successors. BroGad does not seem apt to the task as he keeps genuflecting to Trump and Biden, so willing to toby to the United States that he says we live in their backyard and begged Her Majesty to be Privy to the Council. Prime Minister Holness, in his usual political cowardice and dodgy shiftiness, has replied by alleging that there are numerous developmental matters that must be handled before he can unctuously and unconditionally defend ending the nation's noose held by Brittany. A powerful question is: If not now, when? If it is not us, who?<br /><br />It has been argued that Jamaica has not yet reached a level of economic development that would warrant a Jamaican head of State. Similar ideas and questions were posed at the time of Independence. In 1962 commentators posited the stage of Jamaica's social development and cast doubt on the new nation's ability to exist as a stable democracy. We must remember that loyalty to the Crown was once sacrosanct for many Jamaicans and I suspect BroGad; some called Britain the motherland. Generations later, despite their labour and migration, status and statehood is disavowed by the UK's Foreign Ministry<br /><br />The existence of a developmental stage at which Jamaica should have her own head of State implies pastoral and benevolent qualities of monarchy, a benevolence that slavery has shown us is not characteristic of England in reality. Is it true that Jamaica should at some point become a parliamentary republic only when arbitrary goals or conditions have been met. NO! Jamaicans have always deserved sovereignty!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCN3MDo4VjyfP2Oahcc7yzcS0UIwgqzWj6ZC38t4FUPURUSAhasiiPq-EbT6bUbk0Ps4q80Vy4I75wAh2XyFZ-RTHsrFUIh_NTbcls0BqQTxUW3F3GgGHC7MTgL7kegelLBg404_mnQDhR_dyGhS9yhJti1ulDRhvYAUCbNZb4rA2Co4E5sg=s600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="600" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCN3MDo4VjyfP2Oahcc7yzcS0UIwgqzWj6ZC38t4FUPURUSAhasiiPq-EbT6bUbk0Ps4q80Vy4I75wAh2XyFZ-RTHsrFUIh_NTbcls0BqQTxUW3F3GgGHC7MTgL7kegelLBg404_mnQDhR_dyGhS9yhJti1ulDRhvYAUCbNZb4rA2Co4E5sg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p><br />Just imagine, how would our national heroes and heroine react to the question of our nation moving forward to being a republic? Like many a christian ask, what would Jesus do? We ask ourselves now as a nation; What would Marcus Garvey undoubtedly say but, “Up you mighty race, you can accomplish what you will.” Norman Manley, who had already said, “Mission accomplished,” with regard to the acquisition of political Independence, would at present emphasize that the route to economic independence, which is the next pivotal step, may only be rightfully attained within the context of self-rule, emboldened by full sovereignty. Sam Sharpe would want to know if he had died in vain, after resisted his colonial masters, choosing to die on yonder gallows rather than live in slavery. Paul Bogle and George William Gordon, who both gave their lives as well for the noble cause of freeing their black brothers and sisters from oppression, would be impatient in terms of their country doing what is long overdue and what is right. Finally, Nanny, who helped to defeat our British masters, would be shocked to know that we are still kowtowing to Her Majesty or whomever sits on the British throne. Time has come!<br /><br />On that note, the nation must realize that the acquisition of republican standing is inextricably joined to constitutional reform. As the UWI and UTech conveyor belt churn out lawyers yearly, and the nation has many inside and outside of the political sphere, yet our legislative agenda has been less than spectacular. Golding has shown a knack for getting things done legally, as is evidenced by his stint as minister of justice from 2012 to 2016. This is his opportunity to spearhead a thrust that the nation needs. But key to this movement is for there to be intensive public education, as well as community and sectoral discussions so that the people can understand what is at stake.<br /><br />Now the major question is... What will Jamaica look like when every child learns that their countries' leadership has thrown off the vestiges of colonialism and their sovereignty is not circumscribed; how then will they chart Jamaica's future?<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">About the author: Yannick Nesta Pessoa B.A. is Jamaica’s first blogger, a Social Advocate, Community Activist and Legal Student. Follow on Twitter & Instagram @yahnyk. Follow on Youtube @ and Reply to yannickpessoa@gmail.com<br /></span></b><br /><br /></p><br />Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-78222722788676424052019-08-21T19:00:00.001-07:002021-05-01T15:37:39.773-07:00Dear Paradise II: Another Love Letter to My Community <br />
<blockquote>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">As long as I breathe, I hope. As long as I breathe I shall fight for the future, that radiant future, in which man, strong and beautiful, will become master of the drifting stream of his history and will direct it towards the boundless horizons of beauty, joy and happiness!<br />-Leon Trotsky</span></blockquote>
<br /><br />Dear Family, friends, community members, associates one and all,<br /><br />You may be a parent, teacher, police officer, young person, community activist, or someone angered by what you see wrong in Jamaica, Mobay and Paradise. I would like to invite you into a space of uncompromised honesty. Let us engage each other in conversation, not primarily as scholars wanting to defend a theory, or as politicians seeking to win votes or advance a public policy agenda, or even as activists fighting for a cause, but instead, just as human beings trying to understand, as clearly as possible, our situation and condition at this turbulent moment in history.<br /><br />As activists or community member I am sure your anger is sparked by gun violence, youth unemployment, classism, social justice or inequality — or you simply don’t understand why some people are upset — you are not alone. Like many, you might feel helpless, thinking, “I could never make a real difference or lasting change.” But you’d be wrong. Humans are such a complex species. We could not figure out the mind of a human, no matter how hard we tried. Psychology touches on some of the behavioral and thought processes that are experienced by a human, but Psychology will never be completely factual because the human brain is far too complicated. <br /><br /><br /><br />We want the world to be a happy and just place, maybe it will or won’t be so. But you must know that change comes from parents and teachers who instill the power of critical thinking in children and teens. It comes from leaders who build relationships between diverse people and organizations. It comes from everyday people who think deeply about problems and solutions. How does this happen? We cannot begin to make effective change in our communities until we recognize how we are intricately connected to the people and issues we want to change. <br /><br />Community is like family; and like all families, we may not always get along or see eye-to-eye. But just like my daughter likes to say, ‘family sticks together and helps one another.” Community is about people who care about one another and are willing to be united for the betterment of the greater good.<br /><br />Now the other day a community member, one Teacher P/QP picked my brain with a question or more like a quote he had read, it went like this “Of all the follies in which man indulges there is none greater than the folly of thinking one can change the world!” He said he shared it because I was one of the few people who could fathom it in the immediate environment. I wondered if it was that he thought that my activities trying to better the community were in vain. I think he expected me to contemplate and give him a response. The quote did blow me away for a few days.<br /><br />But a few days later the universe it seems gave me the answer. I don’t remember what I was watching on Youtube but some speaker had said, “The greatest trick the devil ever pulled, is to offer you something you already have. He would have you believe you are nothing and insignificant and unable to affect your destiny or impact the world without his help. But therein is the lie, for from the moment you enter the world it is already fundamentally changed, your presence has already impacted lives, for you life has altered your mother and father, the spaces you inhabit.<br /><br />Now to be honest I haven’t shared the answer in person with Teacher P but ironically I found our dialogue mirrored in an episode of Star Trek… yeah I am a trekkie… especially seeing one of the characters was called Q, but the conversation went like this:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Q:<br /> Hear this, Picard, and reflect: "All the galaxy is a stage."... "Life is but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard no more. It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing." <br /><br />Q:<br />Perhaps maybe a little, uh, Hamlet?<br /><br />Captain Jean-Luc Picard:<br />Oh, I know Hamlet. And what he might say with irony, I say with conviction: "What a piece of work is man! How noble in reason! How infinite in faculty! In form, in moving, how express and admirable! In action, how like an angel! In apprehension, how like a god!"<br /><br />Q:<br />Surely, you don't see your species like that, do you?<br /><br />Captain Jean-Luc Picard:<br />I see us one day becoming that, Q. Is it that which concerns you?</blockquote>
</blockquote>
I put all this to say that, granted much is wrong with the community I am truly grateful for stilling having a space where discuss my love relationship with the community. I believe when we lift others we rise together. Through discourse, discussion and debate. It is no coincidence Paradise has a spot called debate corner, it is not for the faint of heart. More than ever we must remember to help others. We are all where we are because someone helped us along our journey. I wanted to share a letter of thanks to the community for all you’ve done and meant to me. When all is said and done, I hope I will have done more than I said. As I remain optimistic and realistic in this gloomy and slow times, I close with the following:<br /><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Do not go gentle into that good night,<br />Old age should burn and rave at close of day;<br />Rage, rage against the dying of the light.<br />Though wise men at their end know dark is right,<br />Because their words had forked no lightning they,<br />Do not go gentle into that good night.<br />Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright<br />Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,<br />Rage, rage against the dying of the light.</blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ja-TMAhpSbaZrgYNXZ8RLwS1R9efq1t2DhufcMJBsAiWvj2UR_jcElHOfCQGODjbOM62fUHFSifzmZwlrAf-AnP46L1urqed0h2ANnM7eeAT41I0FytF8OE-58xOuqrPKlTb/s640/DSC00031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ja-TMAhpSbaZrgYNXZ8RLwS1R9efq1t2DhufcMJBsAiWvj2UR_jcElHOfCQGODjbOM62fUHFSifzmZwlrAf-AnP46L1urqed0h2ANnM7eeAT41I0FytF8OE-58xOuqrPKlTb/s320/DSC00031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-27951060659447535872019-08-21T16:24:00.000-07:002019-08-21T16:27:28.854-07:00The New Socialist and the Pillars of Modern Socialism<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBsPM4BxcuOg_prxHSTyJ11bj8e4PkUCX62iCQw0IIZbWS3dcrhgQNvOv3sxjMPyL4ZUU57I4u4BMwAVCWmTSwjKPRHJg9FzMzkdE7nbqX1E-LjIxBUXPi6YZgcXxn1GCse2u/s1600/guy-fawkes-308973_640.png"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBsPM4BxcuOg_prxHSTyJ11bj8e4PkUCX62iCQw0IIZbWS3dcrhgQNvOv3sxjMPyL4ZUU57I4u4BMwAVCWmTSwjKPRHJg9FzMzkdE7nbqX1E-LjIxBUXPi6YZgcXxn1GCse2u/s320/guy-fawkes-308973_640.png" width="271" /></a></div>
<br />Just a decade ago, “socialism” was a dirty word in politics. Debates over its merits were mostly limited to obscure blogs, niche magazines and political parties on the other side of the Atlantic and a few in Latin America. But more recently Bernie Sanders in 2016 and then in the New York district last year by Alexandria Ocasio Cortez is indicative of socialism trending and being trendy. In 2017, fifteen members of the Democratic Socialists of America won seats in local elections in thirteen different states, in addition to the 20 members already holding elected office nationwide in the U.S.. It has been especially appealing in the wake of Trump's narcissism... an ethos that speaks to more than individualism which capitalism and fascism speak solely and exclusively to while touting meritocracy and backhandedly being nepotistic. Jeremy Corbyn in the UK has been a socialist boon and if we look at Finland, socialism is doing wonders. I began learning of socialism not through politics but through one Mr. Reverton Bailey’s Sociology class in 12th grade at Cornwall College. From then on I fell in love with a concept that was out of fashion, but stuck with it and have been watching and following socialist pages and memes on Social Media and have watched its global resurgence. Today’s new Socialists are more progressive Democrats than “Castros” in waiting—and their rise poses more of a challenge to the national political discourse than to capitalism.<br /><br />Modern Jamaican voters and politicians should remove the veil from their eyes and engage this new democratic socialism must apart of its redefinition within the 2019 local and international realities. People centeredness, people power, empowering people is what is being put to the fore in this new socialism. Socialism historically has been associated with the concept of public or collective ownership of property and natural resources and has long been associated with Marxism and communism. In 1949, with the Chinese Communists just having taken control of China, and with the Communist Soviet Union creating fear of an aggressive effort to spread their ideology around the globe, that compunded by the U.S.’s cold war with Communist Russia, Jamaicans' view of the term embraced the classic elements bound up in these types of movements; things like loss of freedom or state control. Now, decades later, Jamaicans' views of socialism have broadened.<br /><br />Socialism, to me, means ensuring that our government policy puts human needs before corporate greed and that we build communities where everyone has a chance to thrive. It is the radically simple idea that democratic values should guide our economy toward the maximization of human flourishing, rather than the accumulation of capital. One way to implement socialism in Jamaica would be to emulate many of the economic institutions found in the Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Norway. These countries, which consistently rank near the top of the world in happiness, human development and overall well-being, have highly organized labor markets, universal welfare states and relatively high levels of public ownership of capital.<br /><br />To move in the Nordic direction, Jamaica would have to promote the mass unionization of its workforce, increase legal protections against arbitrary termination and allow workers to control some of the seats on the corporate boards of the companies they work in.<br /><br />A practical form of socialism in the United States in the 21st century would occur when democratic ownership displaces and supersedes the current, dominant extractive corporate model. There is no single, ideal form of democratic ownership, but an enormous variety including full state ownership, partial state ownership, local/municipal ownership, multi-stakeholder ownership, worker ownership, consumer cooperative ownership, producer cooperative ownership, community ownership and sustainable local private ownership.<br /><br /><br />The lynchpin of the new and modern socialism are:<ol>
<li>Public ownership , </li>
<li>Citizens cooperatives , </li>
<li>Civil society organisations , </li>
<li>Open government , </li>
<li>Open source , </li>
<li>Universal basic income </li>
<li>Social enterprise / social entrepreneurship. </li>
</ol>
A socialist Jamaica would be democratic, decentralized and participatory. It will be rooted in racial, gender and social justice, recalling Langston Hughes’ “and that never has been yet—and yet must be.” It will be about living safely, wisely and well within a flourishing commons. This will be actual socialism, because it will have socialized the means of production—although in plural forms that do not all center on the state. Instead of concentrated wealth, it will have broad dispersal of ownership. Instead of frictionless global markets, the rooted, participatory, recirculatory local economy. Instead of extractive multinational corporations, the worker, community and municipally owned firm. Instead of asset-stripping privatization, myriad forms of democratic public enterprise. Instead of private credit creation by commercial banks and rentier finance, the massive potential power of public banks and sovereign government finance.<br /><br />The problem with capitalism is not just that a system fueled by a wealthy, profit-hungry elite is inherently unstable, or that it leaves whole layers of society starving in the streets. It is that it relies on the dictatorship of the rich. The fundamental difference we expect from a socialist society is that we will all have a voice in the decisions that impact our lives. It is social and sociable. Workplaces will be owned by the workers who run them, rather than an authoritarian boss.<br /><br />The political system will be truly democratic, rather than run by those who have bought the politicians. Family life will be more democratic, and no one will have to depend on a breadwinner to survive because public services like health care will be available to all, and will be run with community oversight. Finally, government investment will be democratic, rather than decided by corporate donors or financial gamblers. In other words, we will have true freedom, not just survival—the choices available to us now that depend on the whims of the few.<br /><br />I am about trying to create communities where the education you have access to, or the jobs you’re able to get, don’t depend on your complexion, last name, race or gender. People aren’t looking for a “progressive” or a “democratic socialist” representative, necessarily, but they also aren’t scared of those words—they’re just looking for a fighter who will put their needs ahead of corporate profits and never back down. I am fighting for public goods that make us all better off. I define myself through my own unique lens—I’m a father fighting for justice for all. Ultimately, I’m trying to build coalitions and inspire activists to create a society where everyone has a chance to flourish. That’s the socialism I’m interested in. Are you?<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">About the author: Yannick Nesta Pessoa B.A. is Jamaica’s first blogger, a Community Activist, an Artist and Entrepreneur. Follow Yannick on Twitter at @yahnyk | yannickpessoa@yahoo.com</span></b><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001053.post-74266035835483079832019-08-21T15:50:00.000-07:002019-08-21T16:31:21.917-07:00Unpopular: Political Revamp<br class="tr_bq" /><div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>“Any realistic vision of change must be based on the notion of empowerment of people.”<br />Michael Manley</b></blockquote>
<br />Today the People’s National Party’s position is quite unenviable. PNP’s elected officials have struggled to find a clear and compelling message that speaks effectively to the whole of the country. General principles and values are one thing; a succinct and up-to-date message is another. For too long the political mantra of the PNP though not explicitly said is that: “we're out to beat Jamaica Labour Party, and not help poor people.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
The PNP hasn’t found the formula that both bridges these internal fissures and appeals more broadly to a bigger electorate. If you look at it from the outside, it’s not so healthy. The People’s National Party is not very popular today with a lot of people, and that is truly a problem. If you look at it in absolute terms and just look at where the PNPs stand today: not very good. You look at where the leadership stands, you look at where the party stands in terms of the public, it’s just not good. There’s no way to call it good.</div>
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<br />Party leaders and stalwarts are always fearful of leadership contests, as they know the vitriol, malice and even violence normally reserved for rival political parties will turn inwards and the true nature of party politics will be revealed. There are those in the PNP who would say it’s an overstatement to suggest the party is in the midst of an identity crisis. Yet after years of political observation and watching strategists, elected officials at many levels and grass-roots activists, it’s clear to me that for all the anti-JLP energy that exists, especially on Facebook — is energy that will invariably help to bind PNPs in common cause come 2020. However, the party’s challenges are serious. Ideological differences are only part of it. This is a party of rising constituencies demanding not just to be heard but to be at the table of decision-makers. It is a party in flux, moving from one era to another, with no obvious leader and an identity yet to be fully shaped.<br /><br />One reason factions of the party and electorate has moved left is that much of the power and energy has shifted from establishment leaders toward the grass roots, whose strength was highlighted by the presence of FHI360, COMET ii and USAID, programs and grants that are boosting Civil Society Organization as well as community based groups. Hence through their own cooperation and movements people have seen the value or socialist ideology, but not necessarily the value of political groups, which are subject to the whims and fancies of Delegates, political hierarchies and bureaucracies. So as communities see viable alternatives in forming Social Enterprises, Social Entrepreneurships, CDC’s, Benevolent Societies, Neighbourhood Watches, conversely political groups which are reliant on hand out and scraps or scarce benefits and spoils. It then seems incumbent on the party to engage these groups, join them, boost them, rather than solely or explicitly soliciting hands and hearts to your individual political aims or goals.<br /><br />If one failed to notice globally, Jeremy Corbyn, Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Occasio Cortez and Kshema Sawant prove that socialism is alive and well even in the heart of world superpowers. It is fervent in Latin America. The Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Norway have implemented socialism in their economic institutions. The Norse countries consistently ranked near the top of the world in happiness, human development and overall well-being, have highly organized labor markets, universal welfare states and relatively high levels of public ownership of capital. Yet the PNP drifts ideologically and philosophically here in this 21st century. Then when we see candidate choice and selection for both local and central government elections are riddled with egomaniacs on both sides who treat the electorate as secondary or non-essential till election day while always courting the delegates of both parties who are stuck as die hearts to each party or victims of some kind of political Stockholm’s syndrome.<br /><br />Here are 7 topics which are hot globally and in the streets of Jamaica with civil society organizations, community activists, USAID, the youth and the Rastafari community, yet I have never heard PNP mention: <br /><ol>
<li>Public ownership , </li>
<li>Citizens cooperatives , </li>
<li>Civil society organisations , </li>
<li>Open government , </li>
<li>Open source , </li>
<li>Universal basic income </li>
<li>Social enterprise / social entrepreneurship.</li>
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<br />These questions of leadership, identity and philosophical outlook unnerve the PNP, because the party has no scaffolding. All the dominant leaders of the last two generations—the Manleys, PJ Patterson and Portia Simpson Miller—have receded. The myth of PNP country is discredited and defeat has shaken the party’s foundational strategy—or, at the very least, exposed it as a wishful description of a more distant future, rather than a clear plan for victory in the present. The PNP has in opposition an illusion of unity, but the reality is deeply conflicted. The establishment in the party want the disgruntled to disappear, but reality doesn’t work like that. Two of the party’s largest concerns—race and class—reside in an increasing state of tension, a tension that will grow as the party turns toward the next election. To produce a governing majority, the party will need to survive an unsettling reckoning with itself. The JLP didn’t just prevail over the PNP; they called into doubt their old truths.The party’s must begin sensing the emotional landscape of the people they are selling the vision to, not delegates, but its general membership and the wider electorate.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">About the author: Yannick Nesta Pessoa B.A. is Jamaica’s first blogger, a Community Activist, an Artist and Entrepreneur. Follow Yannick on Twitter at @yahnyk | yannickpessoa@yahoo.com</span></b><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Yahnykhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12589230289599721399noreply@blogger.com0