Jamaican Culture Comes To St.Johnsbury
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- Created on Tuesday, 19 April 2016 14:09
- Written by Dylan Robichaud
Saint Johnsbury-If you’ve ever wanted to go to Jamaica and couldn’t afford it, a part of the Jamaican culture actually came to Catamount arts. Many community members got the opportunity to experience the food, the music, and the atmosphere of what the Jamaican culture is actually like.
The idea to bring a touch of this culture to the Green Mountain State came from Jamaican native Derrick Samuell, who has lived in Barnet for 29 years. Samuell want’s to spread awareness of the diversity in Saint Johnsbury.
“I want people to be aware that in their community there is different ethnic groups,” he said. “It’s a transition for me, from one ethnic way of life to this way of life. The best thing for me is I have observed all of Vermont for the last 29 years.”
It may not sound like Samuell is a true Vermonter coming from Jamaica, but don’t be fooled. Samuell is as true of a Vermonter as one can get.
“I’ve worked in woods, cutting wood, stacking wood in 30 below zero, sugaring, I’m a Vermonter. At the same time i embrace my heritage as well.”
Lura Bruno just got back from vacation in Jamaica a week ago, and says the atmosphere at Catamount arts was identical to the culture in Jamaica.
“Everything there was exactly the way I had it in Jamaica, even down to the bread pudding, and the sweet potato, it was just perfect, the ribs were perfect,” she said. “You’ve got people that have come from all parts of the Country, and all parts of the world that do live in this community so that’s what makes it a good thing.”
Aside from exposing the community to a new way of life, Samuell also says this event will help out Catamount arts because he plans to give half the proceeds to them.
“It’s amazing when you do your best to serve the community, he said. “It’s nice for me to be able to be involved with this community, being from Jamaica, living here, and still own my culture tight.”
Samell plans to hold similar festivities in the future.
