June marks National Caribbean Heritage Month, a significant celebration signed into existence in 2006 by President George Bush. This year, our community kicked off the month with extraordinary pride as we honored our very own Trailblazer, Dr. Camelia Lawrence. Dr. Lawrence made history as the first woman of color, first physician, first mother, first woman of the Caribbean diaspora, and first Jamaican to serve as the PT Barnum Ring Master in the 75th year of the festival. Her platform, "All under the big tent," resonated throughout the festivities.
Throughout the year, Dr. Lawrence hosted a series of impactful events including the ringmaster gala, Sail the Sound, firework displays, visits to senior homes, and exhibitions parade, health fair and food pantry among others. We are thrilled to share several captivating photos of her engaging in these events, embodying the spirit of PT Barnum, Caribbean heritage and community pride.
Members of JAC with our Consul General Alsion Wilson
Members and friends on the "Sail the Sound" fundraiser in support of Dr. Lawrence
Dr. Lawrence checking out our ride
JAC members with Dr. Lawrence at the PT Barnum Great Street Parade
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of our 2024 Book Scholarships, awarded to five deserving students who will be attending Howard University, Hampton University, Fairfield University, Southern Connecticut State University and New England College. None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our Gala Sponsors and attendees. A special thank you goes out to our 2023 gala sponsors: Liberty Bank, Harriott Home Health Services, Kelly Drye and Warren Law Firm, Strategic Outreach Solutions, InterCommunity Health Care, Glendower, White Rose Home HealthCare Agency, Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, Crumbie Law Group, Voices of Women of Color, Shubert Theatre, Hartford HealthCare, and Cornel Scott Hill Health Center. Your contributions have made a meaningful difference in the lives of these students, empowering them to pursue their educational goals. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our community.
(L-R) Tiana Fitzgerald, Veronique Haase, Amani Kerr, Amanda Kerr, Rielle McNeil (not pictured)
Committe members (L-R) Krystal Jackson, Denise Morris, Allison Duhaney & KerryAnn Frank
The Jamaican American Connection was thrilled to attend and support the 10th Annual New Haven Caribbean Heritage Festival in New Haven which is spearheaded by our president, Karaine Holness. The event featured an incredible lineup of local performances by many talented individuals, culminating in a spectacular closing show by Trini-born soca sensation Lyrikal. This free outdoor concert took place on the Alexander Clark Stage on the New Haven Green, in partnership with the International Festival of Arts & Ideas. It was a joyous celebration of Caribbean culture and community, and we were honored to be a part of it. Thank You to Possible Futures for partnering with us to offer books of Jamaican culture to children. JAC would like to give a special Thank you to Crown Media House for our amazing photos!
Also please grab tickets to our 2024 Annual Trailblazer & Scholarship Gala, on September 14, 2024, at the Omni New Haven
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