Davis disappointed with 'casual' attitude towards Sam Sharpe Day

Homer Davis, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister Western, has expressed disappointment at the level of recognition being given to National Hero Samuel Sharpe and Sam Sharpe Day. 

Speaking at the annual Sam Sharpe Flames of Freedom Torch Run in Sam Sharpe Square on Friday, Davis said that when he served as mayor of Montego Bay, a resolution was passed and further gazetted for December 27 to be celebrated as Sam Sharpe Day in the parish of St James.

“I don't think our people fully realise and have fully embraced the significance of this day, but over time, I am sure you will understand why it is significant for the 27th of December to be so designated for the parish of St James to be Sam Sharpe Day,” said Davis.

Davis, who is also the MP for St James Southern, where Catadupa, the birthplace of Samuel Sharpe, is located, used the occasion to challenge more young people to embrace their Jamaican heritage.

“We are on sacred ground. This is where Sam Sharpe paid the ultimate price, and what puzzles me sometimes is how casually we observe this day,” the state minister said. “We need to see more young people stepping up to the plate and observing our culture. Our culture is very significant to us, but sometimes I think along the way we got lost,” said Davis.

December 27 was proclaimed Sam Sharpe Day by the Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen on December 22, 2020.

The Christmas Rebellion of 1831-1832 began under Sam Sharpe's leadership on December 27, 1831.

Mayor of Montego Bay Richard Vernon noted that the rebellion was a pivotal moment in Jamaica's history.

"In 1831, the world was marked by oppression, inequality and the brutal slavery system. The enslaved people of Jamaica faced unimaginable hardships, yet they found strength to resist. Samuel Sharpe, a Baptist deacon used his religious influence and partial freedom to inspire and mobilise the enslaved. Today, I ask our leaders to do the same. Use your influence to inspire hope," he stated.

- Albert Ferguson

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