National Emblems and Symbols
The Flag
The Jamaica National Flag was first raised on Independence Day, August 6, 1962. It is flown on
many celebratory occasions, showing Jamaican pride.
Design
A committee of the Jamaica House of Representatives designed the Jamaican Flag which
consists of a diagonal cross with four triangles placed side by side. The diagonal cross is gold;
the top and bottom triangles are green; and the hoist and fly (side) triangles are black.
Symbolism
“The sun shineth, the land is green and the people are strong and creative” is the symbolism of
the colours of the flag. Black depicts the strength and creativity of the people; Gold, the natural
wealth and beauty of sunlight; and green, hope and agricultural resources.
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The Motto
The Jamaican national motto is ‘Out of Many One People’, declaring the fact that Jamaica’s
population comes from many races. The motto is represented on the Coat of Arms, showing a
male and female member of the Taino tribe (the original inhabitants of Jamaica) standing on
either side of a shield which bears a red cross with five golden pineapples. The crest shows a
Jamaican crocodile mounted on the Royal Helmet of the British Monarchy.
Coat of arms
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The National Dish
Ackee and salt fish is Jamaica’s national dish. Although the Ackee originates from West Africa, is
the only place where it is widely eaten. The fruit has been introduced to other Caribbean
islands (where it is know by different names). It has also been introduced to Central America
and Florida in the United States, but it is mainly eaten by Jamaicans living in these countries.
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The National Bird
The doctor bird (or swallow tail humming bird), stands out among the 320 species of
hummingbirds. It lives only in Jamaica. These birds’ beautiful feathers have no equal in the
entire bird population and they have glowing colours unique. In addition to these beautiful
feathers, the mature male has two long tails which stream behind him when he flies. For
generations, the doctor bird has been sung about in Jamaican song and talked about in
Jamaican stories.
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The National Flower
The Lignum Vitae was found in Jamaica by Christopher
Columbus. Its name, when translated from Latin, means
“wood of life”, probably used because of its medicinal value.
The short, compact tree lives in continental tropical America
and the West Indies. In Jamaica it grows best in the dry
woodlands along the north and south coasts of the island.
The plant is beautiful, producing an attractive blue flower and orange-yellow fruit, while its
crown has a pleasant rounded shape. The tree is one of the most useful in the world. The body,
gum, bark, fruit, leaves and blossom all serve some useful purpose. A gum obtained from its sap
was once regarded as a treatment to cleanse or evacuate the bowels. It was exported to Europe
from the early sixteenth century as a remedy (combined with mercury) for syphilis and has also
been used as a remedy for gout.
The wood was once used to make parts of ships sailing the all over the world. As a result of this,
Lignum Vitae and Jamaica are closely associated in shipyards worldwide. It is a very heavy wood
which will sink in water. Because of its toughness it is used for items such as mortars (for
grinding), mallets, pulleys and batons carried by policemen. Sometimes it is used for furniture.
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The National Tree: The Blue Mahoe
The Blue Mahoe is the national tree of Jamaica. It is native to the island and grows quite rapidly,
often as tall as 20m (66ft). In wetter areas it will grow in areas as high as 1200m (4000 ft). It is
often used in replant areas that have lost many trees. The
tree is quite attractive with its straight trunk, broad green
leaves and hibiscus-like flowers. The eye-catching flower
changes colour as it matures, going from bright yellow to
orange red and finally to crimson. The name Mahoe is
derived from a Carib Indian word. The ‘blue’ refers to
blue-green streaks in the polished wood, giving it a
distinctive appearance.
The Blue Mahoe is so beautiful and durable that it is widely used for cabinet making and also
for making decorative objects such as picture frames, bowls and carving. Cuba is the only other
place where the Blue Mahoe grows naturally.
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The National Song
I pledge my heart forever
To serve with humble pride
This shining homeland, ever
So long as earth abide.
I pledge my heart, this island
As God and faith shall live
My work, my strength, my love and
My loyalty to give.
O green isle of the Indies,
Jamaica, strong and free,
Our vows and loyal promises
O heartland, ‘tis to Thee.
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National Anthem
Eternal Father bless our land,
Guard us with Thy Mighty Hand,
Keep us free from evil powers,
Be our light through countless hours.
To our Leaders, Great Defender,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, Land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
Teach us true respect for all,
Stir response to duty’s call, strengthen us the weak to cherish,
Give us vision lest we perish.
Knowledge send us Heavenly Father,
Grant true wisdom from above.
Justice, Truth be ours forever,
Jamaica, land we love.
Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica land we love.
Attitude during the playing or singing of the National Anthem
All persons should stand at attention, (i.e., heels together) at the playing of the National
Anthem and men should remove their hats. The first verse of the National Anthem should be
played or sung as specifically designated on the arrival of the Governor-General or the Prime
Minister. The National Anthem may be sung or played at public gatherings. Singing of the
National Anthem should form part of the ceremony of raising and lowering of the flag at the
beginning
and
end
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of
term
in
schools
and
at
Independence
celebrations.
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National Pledge
Before God and all mankind, I pledge the love and loyalty of my heart, the wisdom and courage
of my mind, the strength and vigour of my body in the service of my fellow citizens; I promise to
stand up for Justice, Brotherhood and Peace, to work diligently and creatively, to think
generously and honestly, so that Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty, fellowship and
prosperity, and play her part in advancing the welfare of the whole human race.
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