Fri | Mar 29, 2024

No well wishes for the Queen?

Published:Wednesday | June 8, 2022 | 12:08 AM

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Regardless of how we feel about the British royals, the Queen is Jamaica’s Head of State. As Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her Platinum Jubilee with 70 years on the throne, I’m wondering if I missed the well wishes to the Queen from Jamaican leaders, who still serve her.

The UK just concluded a spectacular four-day-long weekend of celebrations. This came with the pomp and pageantry that the Brits are well known for. World leaders have issued statements of congratulation and well wishes, and many foreign dignitaries attended some events.

The Queen is also Head of the Commonwealth of Nations, of which Jamaica is a member. I’ve not heard of any official statement from Jamaican leaders, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade or the Office of the Governor General, although Sir Patrick Allen and Lady Allen were in attendance at the UK celebrations.

Britain pulled out all stops, with colourful festivities and parades, including the Trooping of the Colour and Royal Air Force fly-past, a Service of Thanksgiving and a star-studded concert outside Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen.

There were other public events and community activities marking the milestone which saw people travelling from around the globe to partake and crowd the streets. The event marked a major milestone in the history of the UK. The Queen, at 96 years old, is a symbol of character, duty and service.

Though some may argue that the monarchy achieved its wealth and power unapologetically through colonialism and question its traditions and relevance in a modern world, the Queen remains the official Head of State of Jamaica.

We might be ‘moving on’ from the monarchy, but let’s not forget good taste and diplomacy in the process.

P. CHIN