Inaugural Engagement of the Jamaican Day Parade
| With highest appreciation and profound respect, we extend our sincere thanks for your distinguished presence at the Inaugural Engagement of the Jamaican Rising Day Parade, held at Brooklyn Borough Hall, New York. What transpired on this historic evening marked the birth of a national movement, the formal unveiling of a long-awaited vision, and a defining moment in Jamaican and Caribbean-American history. Your attendance elevated the occasion, lending honor, dignity, and international significance to what will forever be remembered as the first official step toward the First Jamaican Rising Day Parade in the United States.  (From L-R) Christopher Benjamin – Community Relations Officer at the Jamaican Council General’s Office. Hon. Rita Joseph – NYC Council Member. Rev Kim Council – Brooklyn Deputy Borough President- NYC. Dr. Una Clarke– OD- Former NYC Council Member. Dr Bill Tinglin. Hon. Phara Souffrant Forrest – NYC Assemblymember. Hon. Monique Chandler – Waterman – NYC Assemblymember.Within the distinguished setting of the Brooklyn Borough President’s Office, leaders from diplomacy, government, culture, business, education, and the global Jamaican diaspora gathered in unity. The spirit of the evening was unmistakable: pride, purpose, and collective responsibility, affirming that Jamaica’s story, influence, and global contributions deserve not only celebration but a permanent and respected place on the American cultural landscape.  |
| Mrs. Ariel Bowen, Officer-in-Charge of the Consulate General of Jamaica We were especially honored by the participation of diplomats, consuls general, ambassadors, elected officials, faith leaders, cultural pioneers, and community stewards whose commitment to partnership and progress strengthens the bonds between Jamaica, the United States, and the global diaspora. Your engagement reflects a shared commitment to cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and sustained international partnership rooted in intergenerational legacy. A moment of particular reverence was the honoring of Hon. Dr. Una S.T. Clarke, CD, a national treasure, visionary leader, and the first Caribbean-born woman elected to the New York City Council. Her lifetime of service, courage, and advocacy paved the way for this historic moment. To honor Dr. Clarke is to celebrate the very foundation upon which this movement stands. |
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| (From L-R) Christopher Benjamin – Community Relations Officer at the Consular General’s office of Jamaica. Rev. Kimberley Council – Brooklyn Deputy Borough President NYC. Hon. Monique Chandler – Waterman – NYC Assemblymember. Dr. Bill Tinglin. Mrs. Ariel Bowen, Officer-in-Charge of the Consulate General of Jamaica. Dr. Una Clarke– OD- Former NYC Council Member. Jumaane D. Williams – Public Advocate of the City of New York. Hon. Phara Souffrant Forrest –NYC Assemblymember. Hon. Rita Joseph – NYC Council Member. Bishop -Dr. Cecil Riley. As we look ahead to August 1, 2026, when New York City will proudly host the first-ever Jamaican Rising Day Parade, we do so with renewed purpose and confidence. The success of this inaugural engagement affirmed that this initiative is a living legacy, designed to uplift culture, inspire youth, strengthen diplomacy, and celebrate Jamaica’s enduring global impact in music, food, athletics, innovation, and the arts.We look forward to continued dialogue and collaboration as we collectively advance toward August 2026 and beyond. On behalf of the Jamaican Rising Day Parade Executives, our dedicated organizing team, our partners, and the countless individuals who will be inspired by what we have begun together, please accept our deepest gratitude. Your presence helped make history. Your support ensures that this movement will rise with strength, integrity, and unity. With highest appreciation and profound respect, Dr. Bill TinglinChairmanJamaican Rising Day Parade Hon. Dr. Una S.T. Clarke, CDFounding Dignitary |
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