Jamaica celebrates 50 years of independence today. One of the exemplars of the challenges and triumphs of post-colonial existence, Jamaica has much to celebrate and much to consider as it grows into full blossom as an independently-governed people. Sadly, homophobic crime in Jamaica is the highest in the world, and Jamaicans experience some of the most dramatic economic inequality internationally. Of course, Jamaica is also the motherland of some of the most influential, creative and robust cultural, artistic and musical movements in history, and both residents and members of the diaspora can attest to the incredible social strength and industrious intellect of the country. Join us in toasting and talking tonight in the lobby as Matthew Werth of RVNG Intl. spins music by Jamaican musicians and producers.
