My Heritage

Oral history transcript of Monica, a Jamaican elder who gives a very personal account of her journey to Britain in the 1950s. Research document around family life and values; subjects, English, Modern History, Citizenship, and Drama. Age coding 11-16. Teachers and parents can create unique learning activities to help stimulate classroom and home-school discussions on embracing differences and change.

Monica talks about her last day in Jamaica and excitement on going on an airplane and the financial support given by her father. Next, we hear how she followed her parents’ wishes saying, " One thing my parents instilled in me was the idea that you would not have a child before you were married." She talks about her husband and having children, the changes Jamaica Independence would bring, and why they decided to remain in England because, " Being British, at that time the education system was something to look upon." However, she still had to fight for the rights of her children not to get left behind in the classroom. Monica talks about the cultural and social differences between a Jamaican and English family, the importance of manners and discipline, and how we must preserve our heritage.

This resource will help, in creative writing and short monologue performances. It invites educators and students to explore, reflect, and celebrate the rich tapestry of identities within our shared history.

Interview by the Oral Historian Sharon Rappaport for the Cultural Re-Awaking Conference for the Jamaica Hidden Histories project, 2012-2015, at the Metropolitan Archives in 2013.

Jamaica Hidden Histories is an educational project by Full Spectrum Productions, supported by The Heritage Lottery Fund and produced by Lorna Holder.