Birmingham marks 60 years of Jamaican independence

Birmingham is celebrating 60 years of Jamaican independence - with two big events over the next fortnight.

The showpiece summer events marking six decades of independence for the sunshine island include a wide array of musical performances from reggae to poetry, starring international, national and local artists.

Organiser Beverly Lindsay (pictured), chair of the Association of Jamaican Nationals, said: “This is a very special landmark year, for Jamaicans all over the world.

“The Jamaican diaspora in the UK and indeed the Birmingham community will be in the spotlight with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and Jamaica 's 60th anniversary of Independence.

“All our usual popular outdoor spaces will be occupied by the organising committee of the Games, so we are unable to host our signature event 'Jamaica in the Square ' as we had previously hoped.

“However, we cannot allow this significant milestone in our island 's history to pass without celebrating in true Jamaican style. ”

On 6 August, organisers will be hosting a flag raising ceremony in Victoria Square, starting at 3pm, with the entire day dedicated to a Jamaican theme.

And later that day, a Jamaica 60th Grand Gala Fundraising Dinner and Awards will be held from 6.30pm at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, when guest speaker will be US Federal Judge Norman Hemming III.

The celebrations conclude on 14 August with a special service of praise and thanksgiving from 3pm at New Testament Church of God Handsworth, recognising and giving thanks to the hosting and delivery of the Commonwealth Games.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities and tickets, contact Beverly at [email protected] or visit the website.