THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am writing with reference to an article written by Dennis Minott titled ‘Create a Compassionate Republic of Jamaica’, published in In Focus on Sunday, June 2. While the heart and intent of the proposal cannot be argued, it, however, speaks to the reversal of a half-century of erosion in the values and social fabric of our nation.

The factors that have contributed to this are clear to all and need not be addressed here. Mr Minott’s recent articles on this matter, however, I believe, illuminate the path and mechanisms for reversal.

Based on their content, I am certain that he is not proposing that the mere inclusion of an adjective in a new name will address the decline. Rather, that the name adoption states and establishes a commitment to build our identity in full self-government on the commitment to build our future on valuing the humanity of our residents and that of all humanity as we encounter it.

The practical and economic implications of this direction, as we know, are staggering for a small island state. It is this cost as well as the pragmatics of the political process that give thoughtful pause to the ideal. These considerations illuminate the question, ‘What’s in a name?’ The answer to that question, I believe, demonstrates our values as well as what we are willing to sacrifice (or not) for the good of our children.

DENSIE GOWDIE