The following is Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s full National Heroes’ Day message.

As we come together to observe Heritage Week 2024, under the theme “One Love, One People, One Heritage,” we are reminded of the values and shared history that define us as Jamaicans.

This period is a time to reflect on our collective journey—marked by resilience, unity, and a deep sense of pride in our heritage.

Heritage Week offers us the opportunity to not only celebrate the triumphs of our ancestors but also to embrace the values they championed—freedom, justice, and equality for all.

These values have been deeply embedded in our national consciousness, thanks to the courage and sacrifices of our National Heroes, whose vision and leadership continue to guide us.

National Heroes’ Day, which falls within this week, is a time when we pause to honour those who dared to challenge oppression and strive for the betterment of all Jamaicans.

We owe much to the legacies of Marcus Garvey, Nanny of the Maroons, Sam Sharpe, Paul Bogle, George William Gordon, Alexander Bustamante, and Norman Manley.

Their unyielding commitment to justice and equality remains a beacon for us as we continue to shape Jamaica’s future.

This Heritage Week is especially meaningful as we also celebrate many Jamaicans from various sectors who will be receiving National Honours and Awards for their outstanding contributions.

Whether in the fields of education, healthcare, public service, the arts, or business, these individuals have demonstrated excellence and dedication, helping to shape the Jamaica we know today.

Their achievements remind us that our heritage is not only about the past, but about the continuous work of Jamaicans who contribute to our nation’s progress and prosperity.

Let us use this Heritage Week to recommit to the values of love, unity, and respect that have guided our nation.

As we honour our heroes and those who continue to serve with distinction, let us celebrate, not only in song and dance, but in our actions towards each other, reaffirming the timeless message of ‘One Love, One People, One Heritage.’

The Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP, DLP

Prime Minister