Ahead of being elected the first black governor of Maryland this week, Westley Watende Omari Moore declared his pride in being a Jamaican as he shared details of his heritage.

Moore excitedly shared bits and pieces of his Jamaican background in a video in which he addressing the Jamaican Association of Maryland.

“I am so proud to stand with the dynamic and diverse communities that make up the great state of Maryland. But, I am particularly proud to stand with the Jamaican Association of Maryland because I am a very proud yardie,” he said.

Moore said he was specifically proud of where he is from, his history, culture and how it runs through him.

Though he was not born in Jamaica, Moore is of Jamaican descent as his mother, Joy Moore, was born in the island.

“[My mother] was born in Low River and I have family who are in [Savanna-la-mar], family in Ochi Rios, family in Kingston and much of my family is also in Westmoreland,” he proudly stated.

When his mother migrated to the United States, she married his father, Westley Moore, a funny coincidence that members of her family in Westmoreland love to point out, said the newly elected governor, laughing.

Moore also commended Jamaica on 60 years of independence.

“It is a true joy to address all of you in a true celebration of Jamaica’s 60th year of Independence, knowing that the first 60 were great. The next 60, watch out!” he exclaimed.

Moore is a democratic representative and becomes the first black governor for Maryland after Tuesday’s (November 8) midterms in the US, where he received 68 per cent of the vote.