Sixty years of independence and cricket; Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica celebrate

BY MICHAEL THOMAS

1962 was a very important and memorable year for both Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, it was the year that both islands got their independence from Britain.

On August 20^th, 2022, The Consulate-Generals of Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago, Toronto will be hosting their Diamond Jubilee cricket match in commemoration of their 60^th Anniversary of Independence. This event will see both islands joining hands in a friendly match showcasing the sportsmanship and skill that Caribbean folks are widely known for, and it’s a free event.

The event venue is Andrew McCandless Park – 450 Elbern Markell Drive, Brampton, ON L6X 5L3, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 pm. This event promises a fun filled, and action-packed evening with something for visitors of all ages no matter your nationality, race or culture. There will be a full list of Caribbean dishes, music, and more to keep the audience entertained.

I had the privilege of speaking with both Acting Consul General Tracey Ramsubagh-Mannette of Trinidad & Tobago, and the Jamaica consulate on what this event meant and represented to both islands.

When asked how this event makes her feel, Mannette replied, “Sports is an area in which we both excel, and this cricket match is a chance to have some friendly rivalry between our two countries as we celebrate this milestone in our two nationhood.”

“This,” she said, “would also be an opportunity to feature our cultural heritage, so we are hoping that everyone will come out, and bring their friends and neighbours. Cricket is very rarely just about the match, but also about interacting with the fans and what’s going on beyond the boundary.”

“There will also be several prizes, giveaways and of course, Trinidad and Tobago is going to dominate, we can’t leave without that trophy,” CG Tracey laughingly said.

Jamaica’s Consulate, headed by Consul General Mr. Lincoln Downer, also gave their input on this special event, “It’s a celebration of unity and a situation where we create an event for the people in the diaspora. It’s a momentous event, it’s exciting and not just for Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, but for the Caribbean as a whole especially for those who are in the Toronto area, it’s a home away from home feeling.”

Both Trinidad & Tobago and the Jamaican Consulates seem very excited about this important event. Besides the friendly competition, Jamaica’s Consulate would like the public to know there is more, “You can expect a whole host of live entertainment and a fusion of both islands.”

The sponsors for the event include:

• Consulate General of Jamaica, Toronto
• Consulate General of Trinidad and Tobago, Toronto
• Grace Foods Canada
• Jamaica Tourist Board
• Victoria Mutual Building Society
• Jamaica National Group (JN Bank & JN Money)
• Caribbean Airlines
• Carpenters District Council of Ontario
• Faboy Coconut Water
• Drupatis Vaughan