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Council proclaims Caribbean American Heritage Month; Jamaica's U.S. ambassador attends
Summary
Montgomery County Council marked Caribbean American Heritage Month with a proclamation and remarks from Jamaica's newly arrived ambassador, state Delegate Janelle Wilkins and local advisory-group leaders, highlighting immigration stories, civic participation, and calls for sustained investment.
The Montgomery County Council on Tuesday read a proclamation declaring June as Caribbean American Heritage Month and welcomed a series of guests who urged investment in youth, support for small businesses, and protections for immigrant communities.
Council Member Lorien Sales, sponsor of the proclamation, said the month is both "a time to celebrate the culture, contributions and legacy of Caribbean Americans" and "a call to action." Sales criticized recent federal decisions she said have threatened diversity and emphasized local representation in state and county government.
His Excellency Anthony Anderson, newly appointed Jamaican ambassador to the United States, said he's "newly minted" to the post and eager to work with Jamaica's diaspora in Maryland.
Maryland Delegate Janelle Wilkins, who said she represents District 20 and was born in Kingston, Jamaica, described her family's immigration story and urged continued advocacy for inclusive policies.
Venice Mundell Harvey, chair of the Montgomery County Caribbean American Advisory Group, and other community leaders described events and community resources planned for mid-June, and the council read the text of the proclamation honoring Caribbean contributions in Montgomery County.
The proclamation cited national and state figures on Caribbean ancestry and recognized local Caribbean representation in elected office while inviting residents to events including a June 14 community program and the council's official observance.
