Over the years, the celebration of pride has grown tremendously in Jamaica, not just in numbers within the LGBTQIA+ community, but in popularity and for its ability to engineer and claim spaces for marginalised communities. 

As LGBTQIA+ Jamaicans and allies gear up for another PRiDE JA celebration in August during ‘Emancipendnce’ week, PRiDE JA is a reminder to all of the important need for solidarity and community building. 

‘Emancipendence’ is when Jamaicans come together to celebrate two significant milestones in their nation’s history: Emancipation Day on August 1st and Independence Day on August 6th. Though strikingly bold, for LGBTQIA+ Jamaicans, ‘Emacipendence’ week is a reminder of its strength and achievements as Jamaicans. 

So what does PRiDE JA looks like coming out of COVID-19?

In a sit-down chat with organisers of the annual staging, Elton Johnson, associate director of marketing, communications and engagement, gave Our Today the full tea, hunty!

“We want to give the LGBT community and allies the pride of their life. People have been locked inside because of COVID-19 for a very long time. We want Pride Week to provide even more spaces for the community to enjoy themselves and be visible in ways that let Jamaica know that LGBT Jamaicans exist and that we matter,” he shared with Our Today.

“It’s (Pride) our way of showing that LGBT issues are not divorced from issues related to the development of Jamaica as a whole. Jamaica’s history, legacy, and achievements are just as intertwined with that of the LGBT community in Jamaica. It’s important that as a country we understand that we are all one in the same,” Johnson mused with pride.

A time for everyone to recognise the importance of inclusion and diversity, Pride creates inclusive environments for everyone. While for some, Pride is the only time they are allowed to be their true authentic selves and live without fear and ridicule, and with funding from JFLAG LGBTQIA+ Jamaicans are encouraged to host their own Pride week activities, enabling safe spaces.

“Pride is for everyone. It’s an inclusive week of events with space for everyone who accepting and respectful,” Johnson shared during an exclusive.

“This year, we have a slate of activities lined up including the return of our main event, the Pride Breakfast Party. This year we’re aiming for a soca and dancehall fusion with top DJs and an international guest artiste that will excite the community. We also will be facilitating other community members to host their own Pride Week activities that will include parties and lymes, discussion events, pop-up bars, and a host of other activities. Formal announcement coming soon,” Johnson disclosed. 

PRiDE JA has become a staple of the Jamaican culture which many irrespective of their sexuality show up not only to show their support but to really show what it means to be Jamaican– Bold.

Intentionally including dancehall into its programming, PRiDE JA is set to feature popular acts from dancehall, showing that the two can positively exist.

“Can’t let that secret out the bag as yet but an announcement is coming soon. The lineup will definitely include a mix of dancehall and soca artistes,” Johnson shared.