History of the Chinese-Jamaican people


The Chinese-Jamaican, or community dates back to the end of the 19th century. Many Hakka Chinese immigrants from all over mainland China immigrated to Jamaica because transfers in the British Commonwealth were easier to obtain than other transfers. They went to the Carribean islands to look for a better life for themselves, their families and their children. Many others were used as labour in the construction of the Panama Canal and subsequently arrived in Jamaica at a later date.

In time the Chinese-Jamaican community grew. Many attended Catholic schools and started family businesses. However, in the 1970s, political and economic turmoil caused social upheaval on the island. A severe depression combined with the rising Communist political movement (modeled after the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s) alarmed many Chinese-Jamaican entrepreneurs. When Jamaicans started anti-Chinese riots in Kingston, many decided to leave. Many Chinese-Jamaicans emigrated to different parts of North America. The destination of many were Toronto, New York, and Miama. Small groups also moved to other parts of Canada and the U.S., including Los Angeles, Texas, Vancouver and Boston. A vast majority immigrated to Canada due to the easy access to enter the country and be a landed immigrant without a Visa.

Today Jamaica is a vibrant island. Many Chinese-Jamaicans maintain ties with relatives and friends in Jamaica and travel is frequent. Social Community Associations such as the international CCA or Chinese Carribean Association exist in Canada and the U.S., mainly based in Toronto and Miami, keep the community together. Most Chinese-Jamaicans belong to the Hakka Chinese ethnicity. Since many have family histories that cover several generations, most do not speak Chinese today. Nevertheless, the Chinese-Jamaican community remains strong and mindful of its wonderful heritage.

The Chinese-Jamaican people are a proud community that strive to be career professionals. Having the roots of the HAKKA heritage has encouraged us to better ourselves and to work hard. Parents instill onto their children the values of working hard and to never allow others to look down upon them. Through Chinese history, the HAKKA people have been looked down as nomads and lower-class citizens. Because of this, the Chinese-Jamaican and the HAKKA children are encouraged to further their educations.




Site hosted by Angelfire.com: Build your free website today!