Jamaican-Canadians to host election night watch party in Toronto

Jamaican-Canadians in the Greater Toronto Area will gather on September 3 to watch the results of the general election at a special watch party hosted by the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA).

The event, to be held at the Jamaican Canadian Community Centre, will feature cultural performances and a live viewing of the election results. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and entry is free.

“For Jamaicans living abroad, coming together to watch the results of the Jamaica general elections is more than a political exercise. It is a reaffirmation of identity, unity, and shared responsibility. When we gather, we share in the excitement of Jamaica’s democratic journey, celebrate our roots, and stay connected to the issues that affect our families and friends back home,” said Dr Sylvanus Thompson, a member of both the JCA and the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council.

The JCA has hosted similar events in the past, reinforcing the community’s ongoing engagement with Jamaica’s political landscape.

As the election draws near, Jamaican-Canadians have been vocal about their hopes for the country’s future and the priorities they believe the next government should address.

PRIORITY

Karen Tomlinson, a long-time GTA resident, believes healthcare and corruption should top the agenda.

“I think the priority should be healthcare. I am hearing from family and friends as well as the media that the health infrastructure is deplorable. The Government needs to tackle corruption in the public sector as it is rampant, folks paying inspectors to give their establishment a pass and police officers shaking down motorists. Jamaicans deserve fair and impartial systems,” said Tomlinson.

Though engaged, she does not believe members of the diaspora should vote in local elections, saying, “Jamaicans living in Jamaica may know best what should be the priority.”

The ruling Jamaica Labour Party, in its manifesto, has pledged to deepen collaboration with the diaspora, highlighting the importance of continued engagement through the National Diaspora Policy. Its plans include strengthening consular services and supporting the work of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council.

PNP’S COMMITMENT

The People’s National Party, meanwhile, has outlined its commitment to involve the diaspora in constitutional reform, modernise embassies and consulates, and increase diaspora participation in governance through public boards.

Shane, a young Jamaican-Canadian, hopes for action on crime, cost of living, and youth employment.

“Some Jamaicans believe that once you live overseas, you should not have a voice in the country’s affairs. However, the reality is that the Jamaican economy significantly benefits from the remittances we send. Moreover, when we return home, we bring with us valuable international experience and skills that contribute to national growth,” he said.

Elaine Robinson, another attendee, wants the Government to focus on rural development.

“What are they having access to? Are they having access to good healthcare? What does that look like? Schools, do they have the right equipment to educate the children because they are our future? How are they investing in the young people in the community? Those are the pieces for me. What resources are being brought into communities to uplift them?”

Rudolph McDonald echoed this sentiment, urging whichever party wins to focus on national growth rather than political loyalty. “Jamaica needs leadership that works for everyone, not just supporters,” he said.

editorial@gleanerjm.com