This petition is aimed at the Government, and the local media of Jamaica. According to the
Jamaica Observer, Television Jamaica (TVJ) said it would not run the PSA, the first of its kind in Jamaica, because of concerns over “the structure of the announcement, among other things," including the opposition of homophobic pastors.
We, the undersigned, ask for your help in spreading a message of love and acceptance in Jamaica.
The Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals & Gays (JFLAG), in association with U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica Pamela Bridgewater and other partners, have produced the first Public Service Announcement to directly address the notorious issue of homophobia in Jamaica. It features former Miss Jamaica World and Miss Jamaica Universe Christine Straw, and her brother Matthew Straw, who happens to be gay. The PSA highlights her love for her brother despite his sexual orientation, and encourages other Jamaican citizens to do the same.However, pressure from the local clergy in particular, have seemingly put an end to this valiant effort. The government claims it seeks to attain First World status by 2030, but an important part of that ideal is the fostering of a respectful and tolerant environment for all the island's citizens. The churches claim to believe in "loving the sinner, but not the sin." This PSA only seeks to encourage the same.
Please help to get the message out that Jamaica's bigotry is unacceptable in this brave, new world! The target is quite ambitious, yes, but it is necessary to send a very bold statement to the Government of Jamaica, as well as local media, that the rejection of this hateful and irrational behaviour is strong throughout the world.
Thank you very much for taking the time to read this, and your support will be greatly appreciated by those LGBT Jamaican citizens, whose voices are drowned by the multitude.
