West Northamptonshire celebrates 60 years of Jamaican Independence

The 60th anniversary of Jamaican Independence Day was celebrated with a flag raising ceremony on Saturday, 6th August at 11am, outside the Sessions House on George Row in Northampton.

Representatives from West Northamptonshire Council, Northampton Town Council, the Northampton Black History Association and Windrush Association were joined by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, Mrs. Morcea Walker MBE, to raise the Jamaican Cross and commemorate the proclamation of Jamaican independence from the United Kingdom on August 6, 1962.

Councillor André Gonzalez De Savage, the Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, said: “West Northamptonshire Council is proud to mark this important anniversary in Jamaican history and culture and all are welcome to observe the flag raising ceremony.

“Community groups and organisations can apply to raise their flags at the councils’ offices to mark official anniversaries and events and our flag protocol provides more information about this.”

Jamaican Independence Day is a public holiday widely celebrated throughout the Caribbean island. It is marked with official ceremonies, parades, folk music, dances, and festivals.

Councillor Dennis Meredith, the Mayor of Northampton, said: “We are incredibly excited to participate in this year’s festivities for Jamaican Independence Day – recognising 60 years of Jamaican Independence and joining Jamaicans here in Northampton and all over the world in celebrating their heritage.”

Further details about the West Northamptonshire Council Flag Protocol can be found on the council’s website.