Since Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced a Sept. 3 election throughout the island, individuals and groups have outfitted themselves to declare preference for either of the two major political parties and the platforms they represent.
Fashioning color-coordinated, monochromatic shades of orange or green, more than a few have made poignant statements to confirm an affinity for either the People’s National Party or the Jamaica Labor Party.
The most expressive loyalists were spotted wearing dyed hair and painted fingernails, headgear, shirts, dresses, pants, and skirts to attract added camera attention. Some resorted to imbibing color-coordinated food items and communicated using matching cellular phones and bullhorns. Others even upped their game by accessorizing modes of transportation to amplify the colorations.
Loud and proud, campaigners branded their party throughout a relatively peaceful campaign cycle.
The decision seems clear; the predominantly Black nation already decided which direction to take.
It is no wonder because history dictated a pattern that manifested with the transition from colonial Britain’s red, white and blue rule to a bold display of a tri-color banner — one decorated black, gold and green.
Unfortunately, simultaneously, a two-party system colored the spectrum, forcing patriots to choose factions.
Following elections, rivalry regularly emerged the stain from the trail of bold identifiers which punctuate each campaign. Although it became apparent a deference to white rule influenced a majority to vote for Black-led governance, the color questions seem to resurface 63 years after the enduring legacy some believe has enhanced the lot for an independent majority.
While apartheid never formed the legislature, throughout, many have cited discrimination as a hindrance to advancements.
Some claimed “color prejudice” the reason for bias and discrimination. Accusations cast against individuals deemed “red” brown, and white might have tarnished the pride of a national motto echoing — “Out Of Many One.”
And so on Wednesday, the prevailing dictum is to decide the preferred eye-candy that would resonate most with the two rainbow attractions.
Will it be an orange replacement of the green machine or retention of the status quo?
It must be noted that on Sept. 3, 2020, Prime Minister Holness won the nation by a landslide consensus, capturing 49 of 63 parliamentary seats. The victory assured him a third term following two consecutive terms.
Now, early reports last month indicated a close race. Closer to the finish, though, during the last days of August, a reputable poll projected a colorful and fruited victory that could edge out the incumbent.
Rockettes kicking into a century of seasons
As we bid summer farewell, some might find remorse with darker days ahead. Others may also envision bright lights two seasons away when illumination brings cheer and merriment.
Season’s greetings return then, but now families, tourists and early bird holiday patrons to Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas spectacular can expect a bonus this season if they invest in seeing the Rockettes.
No sooner than summer’s unofficial close, the box office opened to receive celebrants to their milestone showcase. Reputedly, the long-legged precision dance company has made its way to the history books with a century of high-kicking routines.
Imagine 100 years of style, grace and elegance.
It all started in 1925 by S.L. “Roxy” Rothafel in St. Louis with a dance technique using tap, ballet and jazz that incorporated precision movements.
Transplanted that year to New York City, the then Roxyettes reconfigured to be now known as the main attraction and Radio City Rockettes.
From 1925 to 2025, a bevy of slender dancers have been kicking in the seasons to the delight of audiences. One hundred years in the making, they are now raring to repeat the unique entertainment families expect.
There are now 84 dancers of varying races who stand barefoot at 5 feet 5 inches to carry on the legacy.
Seasons change, but The Rockettes seem timeless.
The Rockettes were inducted to the St. Louis Walk of Fame on Aug. 1, 2007.
Catch You On The Inside!
