by Kayla from Montego Bay asks Santa about a Black Santa figurine, learns about the north coast of Jamaica, and hears about Montego Bay’s Sam Sharpe Square, an important site in abolition history
Dear Santa, my name is Kayla and I am nine years old. I live in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where my granny says our main square is named after a brave man who stood up for freedom a very long time ago.
Dear Kayla, your granny is entirely right, and I carry deep, quiet respect for that particular history myself.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, is there a Black Santa figurine? My cousin has one on her shelf, and I wanted to know if that was really me.
It certainly can be, Kayla. Santa is often pictured differently in different communities around the world, and every version, however he is drawn or depicted, carries the very same spirit of generosity and kindness. Your cousin’s figurine represents me just as truly as any other.
My second question is about our coast. My teacher says Montego Bay sits along Jamaica’s north coast. Is that true?
It is, Kayla. Montego Bay sits along Jamaica’s beautiful north coast, its clear water and beaches drawing visitors for generations. Flying along that warm coastline each Christmas Eve is a genuinely beautiful part of my Caribbean route.
My third question is about Sam Sharpe Square. My teacher says it is named after someone important in Jamaica’s history of fighting for freedom. Is that true?
It is true, Kayla. Sam Sharpe Square honors Samuel Sharpe, a significant figure in Jamaica’s history who led a major uprising in 1831 that helped hasten the end of slavery. I think that kind of courage, standing up for what is right, deserves real and lasting respect.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Kayla Campbell
Montego Bay, Jamaica
P.S. Do you fly over the square with extra respect?
Every year, Kayla. It would feel wrong not to.
