Bark Di Trute!: Jamaica the US and That Immigration List!

There are strong cultural ties between Jamaica and the US. It is one of our major trading partners, and many Jamaicans live in the USA. The USA also gave significant assistance to Jamaica post-Hurricane Melissa.

Notwithstanding that, the US has the right to decide who can visit its country and also who can become citizens. Jamaica and other countries have the same right.

I posted a press release from the Office of the Prime Minister recently about a telephone conversation between our PM and the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. Many Jamaicans who are being filed for are very anxious about the present hold on the processing of immigrant visas. Some people have said to me that PM Holness should have discussed the matter with the US Secretary of State, and that should be in the press release.

First, more than likely the press release did not have all the issues discussed between both leaders. It might not be wise to mention certain things also in a press release, which could prejudice further discussions. More than likely, there were some disagreements between the two countries, but it is not wise to make such disagreements known at this time. Quiet diplomacy can be far more effective than loud-mouthed, undiplomatic outbursts.

The Prime Minister cannot make any, and should not make any demands about who is accepted into the US as visitors or as migrants. The PM might have mentioned it in the discussion, but this is such a delicate matter that to mention it publicly would be foolhardy.

As Jamaicans, we have to respect the US government's decisions and make sure that we are in good standing with the law, and we do not do anything which can jeopardize our opportunity for becoming citizens in the future. Those who have had their green card for years and did not apply for citizenship can only blame themselves.

Member dis, wen yu a cross riba pan plank a wood, yu have fi keep yu focus on reaching di odder side, because if you don't, and yu fall off eena di ribba, crocodile will have a wonderful supper.

Other Reading

Press release regarding conversation between PM Holness USA Secretary of State.

______________________

Click here to apply for a job or make a complaint, for example.

NEEDED

A very qualified IT expert is seeking to go on a new project. He has over twenty years of experience in the field. He has an MSc in the field.
Do you need a decent and honest person to work three days each week in your home?
A place is needed to store bookshop stocks. Stocks are being sold at a reduced rate.
Do you need a live-in caregiver?