From Yard to Diaspora: A Season of Growth | | |
Dear JON-J Family and Friends,
Being Resilient. It is our capacity to recover quickly or endure difficult times.
Several days ago, I picked up Oprah Winfrey’s book, What I Know for Sure and landed on Page 47 in the chapter titled Resilience. Oprah wrote that in her difficult times, she turns to the gospel song, “Stand”, by Donnie McClurkin. “What do you do when you’ve done all you can, and it seems like it’s never enough? What do you give when you've given your all, and it see a like you can’t make it through? You just stand.”
We are all experiencing difficult times, the depths of which only you know. Large or small, they require your attention. Are you able to assign the appropriate coping response? Do you have a gospel song? Do you have a friend to confide in? Is it to Stand? Whatever it is, know that clarity comes with time, and when you listen and when you stand.
You are Resilient.
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Warm regards,
Valerie Bailey
State President
Jamaica Organization of New Jersey
(JON-J)
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Congratulations to Errol Kerr on his elevation to the presidency of the Paterson Public Library/ Museum Board at its regular monthly meeting held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. He was originally appointed to the Board in January of 2018, by Paterson’s Mayor, André Sayegh, a strong supporter of the Jamaica Organization of New Jersey, and the Jamaican community.
Mr. Kerr is a dedicated servant leader and one of the founding members of the Passaic Chapter of JON-J. He served the Chapter as its first president from 2012 - 2015. At the end of his tenure, he went on to the state board where he continued his service to the organization as Vice-President for 3 years.
As a community-minded individual, Errol has always been willing to lend a hand in support of any venture he considered to be positive and makes a difference. Some of the offices he held in trust of his community includes: serving 11 years as an elected member of Paterson Board of Education where he served the board as (Fiscal Chair), and member of the Passaic County School Board's Association. He also serves as the Chairman of the Education Committee of the Paterson branch of the NAACP, and as Vice-President of the AARP Paterson Chapter.
After leaving the school board he was drafted to the board of the Paterson Education Fund (PEF), an advocacy group that supports the Paterson school district in its lobbying efforts at the state level for adequacy in funding in guaranteeing a thorough and efficient education for the children of Paterson.
We are so proud of our friend and colleague and wish him well in his new role.
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A Special Evening Honoring Mayor Elsie Foster
It was a true honor to attend the March 9, 2025, gala hosted by the Highland Park Conservative Temple – Congregation Anshe Emeth, celebrating our very own Mayor Elsie Foster. The evening was filled with warmth, gratitude, and a deep sense of community.
What made it especially moving was the genuine love and appreciation expressed for Mayor Foster—not just for her leadership, but for always doing what’s right, even when no one is watching. Her integrity and support have clearly left a lasting impact.
I'm proud to share the following excerpt from the JLife March 2025 edition, recognizing her heartfelt contributions - Jacqueline Lewis: Middlesex
| | What’s always at your Easter Table? | | | |
March Poll Results:
Which of the following songs by female reggae artists is your favorite?
“Bam Bam” by Sister Nancy: 42.9%
“Electric Boogie” by Marcia Griffiths: 14.3%
“Black Woman” by Judy Mowatt: 21.4%
“Uptown Top Ranking” by Althea & Donna: 21.4%
| From My Corner of the Garden | |
April is the month of my birthday, marking, in a way, the start of a new season in my life. It’s a time when I reflect on the blessings I’ve received and all that I’m grateful for—despite, and because of, the twists and turns life has brought. In keeping with this newsletter’s theme, “From Yard to Diaspora: A Season of Growth,” I pause once again to appreciate those blessings. Spring, a season of renewal, reminds me of how the seeds already planted begin to grow. April is also National Poetry Month, and I reflect on how poetry, art, and literature have nourished my spirit in different ways throughout my life.
As a Jamaican-American woman, I come from a lineage of ancestors who were once forced to stop speaking their native languages and forbidden to learn to read and write in English.
Reflecting on my multifaceted histories and identities, I center gratitude—for the blessings in my life, the lives of my loved ones, and the people in my communities. Over the years, I’ve evolved in many ways, through both joys and challenges, but I continue with resilience, gratitude, and grace—just as my ancestors did before me.
A Season of Growth - Haiku:
Sunlight spills on green,
earth hums with life, fresh and bright—
another year blooms.
by Monica Mills (Co-Editor)
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Rooted in Yard, Blooming in the Diaspora
Spring reminds us that growth takes time. It doesn’t always come easily or all at once—but with faith, resilience, and nurturing, it arrives. As Jamaicans in the diaspora, we know this well. We’ve left the familiar soil of “yard,” planted roots in new places, and blossomed—shaping vibrant communities while holding fast to the culture that raised us.
This season, we reflect on the journey from Jamaica to New Jersey—not just as a physical movement, but as a living story of perseverance, reinvention, and pride. Whether it’s the taste of bun and cheese, the rhythm of our patois, or the spirit of Easter morning worship, our traditions continue to grow wherever we are.
May this season of renewal inspire us to stay connected, to pass on what we know, and to bloom in whatever soil we’re given. Because no matter where we are, we carry “yard” in our hearts—and that’s more than enough to make something beautiful grow.
by Jazz Clayton-Hunt (Co-Editor)
| April Celebrations & Condolences | |
Congratulations to Overseer Bishop Neville Copeland of the Glad Tidings Church of God of Prophecy, and a dedicated founding member of our Somerset County Chapter. Bishop Copeland was recognized at the district conversation for his Excellent leadership in Ministry.”
Sandra Campbell Johnson, Somerset Chapter JON-J President.
| JON-J extends deepest condolences to long time supporter, Karen Malone and family, of our Essex Chapter, on the passing of her beloved Mother Betty Malone, whose parents, Philip and Iris Allen Plunkett were from Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies. Godspeed Miss Betty. | |
Jamaica Easter Bun Recipe (With Cheese of Course!)
Jamaican Easter Bun Recipe (With Cheese, of Course!)
There’s no Easter in Jamaica without bun and cheese. Whether you went to the shop or bakery to get yours or remember your grandmother making it from scratch, the flavor is unforgettable—rich, spicy, slightly sweet, and always paired with a slice of thick processed cheddar cheese. A marriage made in heaven!
Here’s a beloved homemade version to bring that taste of "yard" into your diaspora kitchen this season.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground allspice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 bottle (12 oz) Dragon Stout or Guinness
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp molasses or honey
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, cherries)
- ¼ cup chopped mixed peel (optional)
- 1 egg (beaten)
- ½ tsp grated orange zest (optional but adds a citrusy brightness)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice). Set aside.
- In a saucepan, gently heat the stout/Guinness, sugar, butter, molasses, and vanilla over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
- Let the stout mixture cool slightly, then add the beaten egg and mix well.
- Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Don’t overmix. Fold in the dried fruits and orange zest.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
- Let cool completely before slicing.
To Serve:
Slice the bun thick and pair with slices of processed cheddar cheese—the kind that comes in a tin is traditional, but any firm, sharp cheddar will do the trick. Serve with tea or Jamaican hot chocolate and enjoy with family on Good Friday—or any day of Easter weekend.
Tip for the Diaspora Baker:
If you can’t find Dragon Stout, use Guinness or even malt beverage. And don’t stress if you can’t find mixed peel or certain dried fruits—make it your own. That's part of the diaspora journey: same spirit, new soil.
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CITIZENSHIP
By Errol Kerr, Paterson Chapter Board Member
As we reflect on this season of growth—of digging deep roots and blooming across borders—it becomes clear that part of our collective blossoming requires action, vigilance, and participation. Spring reminds us that thriving doesn’t happen by chance—it happens through care, connection, and courage. For the Jamaican diaspora, especially those navigating life in the United States, this moment calls not just for personal growth but civic engagement. What follows is a timely and urgent reflection on how policy shifts here in the U.S. could have direct consequences for our community and Jamaica—and how now is the time to rise, grow, and stand firm.
Every incoming administration comes with a plethora of new policies designed to address existing issues as perceived by the incoming team. For the most part, these policy proposals are answers to questions that were either vetted, tested, or litigated during the course of an election. So there’s no mystery in expecting change after an election. As the saying goes… elections have consequences. However, from a historical standpoint, judgment on policies are usually held back to determine how they impacted the lives of the people they were crafted to help. But even in such cases, there are exceptions to the rule.
In some cases, responses could come back with haste if those policies are deemed injurious to the well-being of the larger society. And this is precisely where the current administration finds itself today. Many segments of society have already voiced displeasure at how some of these policies negatively impact them.
There are no words to minimize the difficulty of the moment. That’s why, as Caribbean people, it is imperative we get up from our slumber and stand firm in whatever capacity we find ourselves fully committed to the struggle because of what is at stake. I know the significance of some of these policies may take some time to register with some of us fully, but let me say this… Jamaica’s economic viability could very well be at stake due to some of these policies. Allow me to add some context to my assertion here. Jamaica’s two primary foreign exchange earnings sources come from tourism and remittances we, as expatriates, send back home. Therefore, stands to reason that any obstruction to these inflows could result in severe economic problems for the country. The current government’s decision to cap and degrade existing diversity, equity, and inclusion policies could seriously affect our immigrant community’s ability to strive economically and to be able to continue the practice of taking vacations in Jamaica and helping our families economically.
The real danger regarding this policy is the understated nature of its prospective effect. At issue is the fact that this policy is not limited purely to government agencies, where any fallout can be managed and adjusted to limit any adverse effects in the broader society. Instead, the government has extended its use to the private sector, whose history on that side of the ledger is not so kind to us. Let’s ask ourselves why these policies were initiated and what their absences will mean for us now. The answer is not complicated. It’s pretty straightforward job discrimination and a lack of promotional opportunities for people like us.
Do we share any responsibility for this? Without a doubt, we do! Too many of our people are sitting down without purpose in this country with ‘green cards’ and refusing to move forward and apply for citizenship to become full-fledged participants in the democratic life of the country. As people of the immigrant community, we can no longer afford to work against ourselves by being mindlessly detached from what’s happening in the country. We must clear our heads from the idea that by becoming a citizen, we’ll have to give up the right to our Jamaican citizenship. The fact is, you are not required to give up your Jamaican citizenship to become a citizen of the United States. You can hold dual citizenship in both countries simultaneously. Therefore, now is an opportune time to relieve yourself of your ‘green card’ and become a citizen of this great country. Word of advice: your green card carries some inherent limitations, which means a simple situation could result in you ending up in deportation proceedings. By becoming citizens and getting involved in the life of this country, we can take full advantage of everything the country offers. As is always the case, together, we can accomplish more than we can ever dream of achieving by ourselves. Stay engaged!
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Hello JON-J Family and friends!
We are excited to announce that Debra Ehrhardt is returning to New Jersey, this time to perform her latest play: Look What Fell Out de Mango Tree on May 3 & 4. Please join us for this exciting performance on your choice of two days at one of two locations closest to you:
Saturday, May 3 the play is at Eternal Life Christian Center (ELCC) 322 Franklin BLVD., Somerset, NJ
Sunday, May 4 the play is at Glad Tidings Church of God of Prophecy (GTCOGOP) 18 Park Place, North Plainfield, NJ.
“Based on her true-life story, Ehrhardt’s play is about the importance of forgiveness and the power of vulnerability. You can’t give yourself to someone when you are not intact, when pieces of you are missing. In Look What Fell Out de Mango Tree, Debra uncovers a big secret that unlocks her ability to forgive and transforms her relationship with men. Seeking truth and understanding can’t heal you or undo the hurt. But it can unshackle your next steps, and free up the denouement of your own life. Because running away from something is not being free."
| A portion of the proceeds will go towards JON-J’s Cultural Heritage and Community Service Efforts. So, we appreciate your support. | Chapter News & Highlights | |
The Jamaica Organization of New Jersey (JON-J), Essex County Chapter, is pleased to announce the availability of a scholarship opportunity to deserving Essex County high school seniors of Jamaican descent/heritage, who are graduating in calendar year 2025, and who have been accepted to an accredited institution of higher learning. Attached please find information pertinent to this award. Additionally, students can click on the link below to submit their application electronically. Please note that all applications must be postmarked no later than June 30, 2025. Applicants will be notified of the decision by the scholarship committee in July 2025. Please feel free to share with family and friends.
Essex County Chapter 2025 Scholarship Application
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Regards,
Scholarship Committee
JON-J, Essex Chapter
www.jonj.org
| Passaic Chapter's Financial Seminar | Union Chapter's Wellness Workshop | |
Our Membership Application has gone digital!
Becoming a JON-J member is now easier than ever with our digital membership application! Enjoy exciting new features like automatic yearly renewal reminders, the option to join Chapter or State Board Committees, and a personalized membership card. Sign up today and invite your family and friends to join as well!
| Congratulations to Michelle Tulloch-Neil, on receiving the International Distinguished Leadership Award from the African and Caribbean International Leadership Conference Award Committee. This award was for her outstanding commitment to victim advocacy, youth empowerment, education and community development. She was elected as the representative of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council for the Northeast USA in 2023 and has given back to our communities here in the United States and in our island home, Jamaica. | |
“I was humbled to receive the International Distinguish Leadership Award,” said Ms. Tulloch-Neil and that the pinnacle of the evening was receiving the United States Presidential Volunteer Award, one of the final honors bestowed by President Joseph Biden. “... I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my family, particularly my mother, Rose Capon, and Team Jamaica Bickle Inc., who have been steadfast in their backing since I started this journey…” Read More.
Ms. Tulloch-Neil is a strong supporter of the Jamaica Organization of New Jersey and our mission. We are always happy to see her at our varied events.
Upcoming: The Jamaica Diaspora Northeast Conference will be held in Philadelphia from June 12 to June 14, 2025. The focus this year is to continue working with community leaders, churches, City Council members and local businesses to bring awareness and education to the current immigration issues, crime, education, health and commerce through monthly forums, Tulloch-Neil said.
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JON-J Projects
- Hurricane Assistance to Jamaica and other Caribbean islands impacted by Beryl
- Micro University College PUMP Program
- Adoption of Ulster Spring Health Center, Trelawny Jamaica – Passaic Chapter
- Adoption of Stockholm Park Basic School in Highgate, St. Mary – Passaic Chapter
- Adoption of Pentonville Basic School in Bull Bay, St. Thomas – Middlesex Chapter
- Scholarship/Financial Support – College bound Students across New Jersey
- Continued Support Program for Athletic Students from Jamaica– Essex Chapter
- Material contribution to Falmouth Hospital in Jamaica – Bergen Chapter
| | 2025 State Executive Board of Directors | | | |  | |
Mailing address:
PO Box 446, Orange, NJ 07051
JON-J Celebrating 26-Years
Duty🇯🇲 Service 🇯🇲 Community 🇯🇲
#26Anniversary #JONJ #FACEForward
www.jonj.org
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The Jamaica Organization of New Jersey (JON-J) is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization with a dual purpose of building and strengthening ties amongst people of Jamaican heritage in communities across New Jersey and serving as a resource to give back to our homeland.
We are comprised of seven chapters within various counties across the state, including Bergen, Essex, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, Passaic, and Union. Although our membership primarily consists of Jamaican nationals, our events and initiatives are open to all.
The mission of JON-J is to empower Jamaicans and their descendants to maintain a cultural identity within their communities through establishing relationships within the business, civic, educational, religious, and international arenas.
This enables us to promote recreational activities and assist in the development and improvement of community-related projects in Jamaica and across the State of New Jersey.
| | Paterson location opens as of March 14, 2025. | | | | |
