jamaica essay introduction

Essay on Jamaica

Students are often asked to write an essay on Jamaica in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Jamaica

About jamaica.

Jamaica is a country in the Caribbean Sea. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, music, and food. People there speak English and have a culture that’s known around the world. It’s an island, which means it’s surrounded by water.

Nature in Jamaica

The island has mountains, rainforests, and rivers. You can find many plants and animals that live only there. The Blue Mountains are very tall and have coffee plants that make delicious coffee.

Music and Culture

Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae music. Bob Marley, a music star, was born there. The country celebrates its culture through dance, art, and festivals.

Jamaican food is tasty and includes dishes like jerk chicken and patties. It’s spicy and uses lots of local ingredients. Fruit like mangoes and coconuts grow well in Jamaica.

People in Jamaica love sports, especially running. Usain Bolt, the fastest man, is from Jamaica. Cricket and soccer are also popular there.

250 Words Essay on Jamaica

Introduction to jamaica.

Jamaica is a beautiful island country in the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its rich culture, music, and stunning beaches. The island is full of green mountains, clear waters, and colorful plants and animals.

Location and People

Jamaica lies south of Cuba and west of the island of Hispaniola. About 3 million people live in Jamaica. Most of them are descendants of African slaves. The people are known for being friendly and for their love of music and dance.

Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae music, made famous by Bob Marley. Reggae music often talks about love and freedom. The island’s culture is also known for its food, like jerk chicken, which is spicy and tasty.

Sports are big in Jamaica, especially running. The country has some of the fastest runners in the world, like Usain Bolt. Cricket and soccer are also popular.

Places to See

Tourists love to visit Jamaica for its beaches, like the Seven Mile Beach. There are also places like the Blue Mountains, where the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee comes from.

In short, Jamaica is a land of music, sports, and natural beauty. It is a place where visitors can relax on the beach or explore the mountains and learn about the island’s rich culture and history.

500 Words Essay on Jamaica

Jamaica is a beautiful island country in the Caribbean Sea. It’s famous for its rich culture, stunning beaches, and warm weather. The island is full of life, music, and flavors that make it a unique place to visit and learn about.

Geography and Nature

Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean. It has mountains, rainforests, and rivers that create breathtaking scenery. The Blue Mountains are the highest point on the island, and they are home to the famous Blue Mountain coffee. The warm climate makes it a perfect place for many plants and animals to live.

People and Culture

The people of Jamaica are known for their friendly nature and hospitality. The island’s culture is a mix of different influences, including African, European, and native Taíno cultures. Music is a big part of Jamaican life, with reggae music being the most famous. Bob Marley, a reggae legend, was born here. Jamaicans also love sports, especially track and field, where they have won many Olympic medals.

Language and Food

English is the official language of Jamaica, but many people speak Patois, a special Jamaican dialect. Patois is full of colorful expressions and reflects the island’s history. When it comes to food, Jamaica is known for spicy and flavorful dishes. Jerk chicken, a spicy grilled chicken dish, is very popular. Fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and coconuts are also common in Jamaican meals.

Tourism and Economy

Tourism is a big part of Jamaica’s economy. People from all over the world come to relax on the island’s beaches, explore the culture, and enjoy the tropical weather. The island also produces things like sugar, bananas, and coffee, which are sold to other countries.

Challenges and Progress

Like many countries, Jamaica faces challenges. Some parts of the island struggle with poverty and there are areas where it’s important to be careful because of crime. But the country is working hard to improve these issues and make life better for its people.

Jamaica is a country with a strong spirit and a rich culture. Its beautiful landscapes, friendly people, and lively music make it a special place in the world. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of jerk chicken or listening to the beats of reggae, Jamaica offers a wonderful experience that is hard to forget.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Japan
• Essay on Japan Visit
• Essay on Japanese Colonization In The Philippines

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Welcome to Jamaica the third largest island of the Caribben and the birthplace of Bob Marley and James Bond. A place that is both unique and familiar with beaches that strecth “clear blue” forever. And the seemingly endless hours of warm Caribbean sunshine. A trip to Jamaica may include river rafting, waterfall climbing, horseback riding, beachcombing, ballooning, diving, mountain biking, snorkeling or just relaxing in a swaying hammock watching the sunet.

Though the majority of the population is from African decent, there are people from Eurpean, Arabic, Chinese and East Indian ancestry as well. The Jamaica people are multiracial blend.

Once a Spanish colony, Jamaica came under the British rule in 1655 until 1962 when the county became and independent nation.

Larger and more varied than most visitors expect, Jamaica can’t be explored in a few days. Its diverse physical beauty makes it an island that appeals to visitors worldwide. From the high peaks of the Blue Mountan, the dramatic water falls, white sanded beaches Jamaica is waiting to be discovered by you. There is no place on Earth like Jamaica.

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Jamaica: Introduction

Jamaica is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba and west of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Jamaica has a strategic location between the Cayman Trench and the Jamaica Channel, the main sea lanes for the Panama Canal. The government system is a constitutional parliamentary democracy and a Commonwealth realm. The chief of state is the Queen of the United Kingdom, and the head of government is the Prime Minister of Jamaica. Jamaica has a mixed economic system which includes a variety of private freedom, combined with centralized economic planning and government regulation. Jamaica is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

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JIS Heritage Essay 2023

QUESTION: ‘Should Jamaica remain under the British monarchy or become a full republic? Discuss.’

Guidelines & Instructions

Essay Theme : “Echoes of Freedom: Tracing Jamaica’s Path from Colonialism to Republic.” 

Essay Question : Should Jamaica remain under the British monarchy or become a full republic? Discuss. 

Deadline : OCTOBER 31, 2023

How to submit : Essays should be submitted using the application form below by October 31, 2023.

The essay should be:

• An original
• Written by the student in Standard English
• Between 400 to 500 words . Essays will be judged on the following criteria: relevance to the topic; originality; accuracy and analysis of the researched data, writing style and language skills. Submissions should also include Bibliography or list of references (at least one of the references MUST be a JIS source).

The Jamaica Information Service reserves the right to disqualify any essay that does not meet the requirements specified in these instructions. Students will be penalized for Plagiarism (passing off another person’s idea or written work as your own). 

Prizes Prizes will be awarded to the top three (3) students. Prizes will also be given to the top participants courtesy of sponsorship from corporate Jamaica. Photos and accompanying news release will be posted on the website of the JIS. 

Eligibility Any registered Primary or Preparatory School Student in Jamaica aged 9 – 12 is eligible to compete. Relatives of JIS staff members are not eligible to participate in the Heritage Essay Competition. Please ensure that you keep a copy of your essay. The submitted essay becomes the property of the Jamaica Information Service.

Contacts for Participants : Ms. Charnele Henry JAMAICA INFORMATION SERVICE 58a Half-Way Tree Road KINGSTON 10 TEL: 926-3740-6 Ext. 2132 Email Address: [email protected]

Key Details

• Essay prompt: Should Jamaica remain under the British monarchy or become a full republic?
• Maximum of 500 words
• Must be an original essay
• Eligibility: Any registered Primary or Preparatory School Student in Jamaica aged 9 – 12
• Submissions must include a Bibliography or list of references (at least one of the references MUST be a JIS source)
• Contact person: Ms. Charnele Henry, TEL: 926-3740-6 Ext. 2132, Email Address: [email protected]

Submit Your Essay

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A Summary and Analysis of Jamaica Kincaid’s ‘Girl’

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

‘Girl’ is a short story by the Antigua-born writer Jamaica Kincaid (born 1949). In this very short story, which runs to just a couple of pages, a mother offers advice to her teenage daughter about how to behave like a proper woman. ‘Girl’ was originally published in the New Yorker in 1978 before being reprinted in Kincaid’s collection At the Bottom of the River in 1983.

At just 650 words, Kincaid’s story can be regarded as a piece of flash fiction or micro-fiction. However, it doesn’t tell a ‘story’ in the conventional or traditional sense. You can read ‘Girl’ here before proceeding to our summary and analysis below.

‘Girl’: plot summary

The story comprises one single sentence of 650 words, and takes the form of a dialogue between a mother and her daughter. Although this is not stated in the story, the setting – as Kincaid has subsequently pointed out – is Antigua, the Caribbean island where she was born and raised, and the reference to numerous local foods, such as okra, salt fish, and dasheen, all hint at the story’s Caribbean setting.

The mother gives advice to her daughter, the ‘girl’ of the story’s title. Initially, this is practical domestic advice about washing and drying clothes, as well as cooking tips, such as how to cook salt fish. It is also parental advice along the lines of not walking bareheaded in the hot sun.

But as the mother’s advice continues, we begin to learn something about her attitude to her daughter: she tells her to walk like a lady on Sundays, rather than the immoral and unkempt woman she is determined, according to the mother, to become.

The mother tells her daughter not to sing ‘benna’ in Sunday school: a reference to benna , a calypso-like genre of singing popular in Caribbean countries and characterised by scandalous gossip and a call-and-response format. At this point, the daughter’s voice breaks in, in italics, and protests that she has sung benna in Sunday school, so she is being cautioned against doing something she already knows not to do.

The mother appears to ignore her daughter’s interjection, continuing to give her advice, including how to wear a different smile for people she doesn’t like, people she actively hates, and people she does like. She then tells her how to dress so she doesn’t look like ‘the slut I know you are so bent on becoming’. This phrase is repeated several times in the story.

The mother carries on, becoming more critical of her daughter’s attitude and behaviour. She mentions Obeah , a mystical religion with its roots in African beliefs and rituals, and tells her daughter not to judge by appearances. She also offers medical advice, including how to bring on an abortion and how to catch a fish, as well as how to catch, or attract, a man to become her husband.

Indeed, much of her advice focuses on the kind of domestic chores a wife would be expected to perform for her husband in traditional societies.

The story ends with the mother advising her daughter how to squeeze a loaf of bread to tell whether it is fresh. The daughter speaks again – only the second time she has done so in the story – to ask what she should do if the baker won’t let her touch the bread. The mother responds, is her daughter really going to be the kind of woman the baker won’t let near the bread?

‘Girl’: analysis

Kincaid’s story is about a mother passing on her wisdom to her daughter, but one of the clever things about the way Kincaid organises the story is the way she seamlessly weaves in moral advice about reputation among the more everyday, domestic knowhow she thinks her daughter needs to know.

The mother is concerned not just with ensuring her daughter becomes a good wife when she grows up, but ensuring that she is seen as a good woman, rather than a ‘slut’ (the word the mother uses several times in this short story) who is viewed as immoral and promiscuous by her neighbours and the wider community.

The title of Kincaid’s story, ‘Girl’, is significant because it becomes clear that the daughter in the story is actually a girl on the cusp of adulthood. This, then, is the mother having ‘the talk’ with her daughter, if not quite about the ‘birds and the bees’ then about how to be seen as a woman of good morals.

Kincaid hints at the girl’s adolescence through several suggestive details, such as the ‘little cloths’ she mentions early on: a reference to the girl’s underwear. This is a subtle allusion to menstruation and what the girl should do when she starts her monthly bleeding.

Given its brevity and the headlong structure of this one-sentence conversation, we as readers are not given any deeper knowledge about how the mother views the society of which she is a part. Does she approve of the patriarchal structure of her society, where women are prepared for their roles as good daughters, and then good wives and good mothers, from an early age? On one level, she is upholding this structure by uncritically presenting her recommendations as merely ‘the way things are’, we might say.

But this might simply mean that she wants her daughter to have a good life and an easy life, if not in terms of the daily grind of household chores, then in how she gets along with her neighbours and friends. By doing as the mother advises, her daughter will be thought of well by the community, and that will make her life easier.

Nor do we know whether she is right to return – as she repeatedly does – to sexual matters and the kind of young woman she fears her daughter is ‘in danger of becoming’.

The first of her daughter’s two interjections suggests that her mother may be misjudging her own daughter, since when her mother tells her not to sing benna in Sunday school, she responds that she doesn’t do that, implying this is an unfair ‘criticism’ of her behaviour.

This suggests – though it can only be inferred on our part, rather than confidently asserted – that the mother is concerned with her daughter being led astray, and her fears about her conduct and reputation may be unfounded, or at least exaggerated.

If this is so, then it only serves to underscore the traditional patriarchal structure of the Antiguan society that Kincaid is seeking to depict in ‘Girl’.

Of course, this would also be true of many other societies around the world, although assuming the story has a contemporary setting (if not in the 1970s then perhaps recalling Kincaid’s own girlhood, from a decade or so before), it implies that – assuming the mother’s attitudes are typical of the values held by that society more widely – there was still a strong sense of the importance of family in Antiguan society when the story was written. And a woman’s good reputation as a loyal wife and hard-working mother is important in upholding those values.

The story is also notable for its use of grammar: it consists of a single sentence, most of which is spoken by a mother who is giving advice to her daughter. The mother’s monologue is briefly interrupted by the girl on just occasions, but otherwise, this story consists of the mother’s words of wisdom to her daughter – about life, relationships, housekeeping, and the importance of reputation.

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How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an introduction paragraph , how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

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The Politics of Abortion in Modern Day Jamaica Essay

Introduction.

Modern Jamaica is a prospering Caribbean island nation known for its beautiful environment, tourism destinations, and a diverse culture. Coming from a challenging history as a slave colony, Jamaica has made significant progress to define its identity in the region. However, despite a common perspective of the country being highly liberal and accepting, in some respects its society remains conservative and embedded in ideology of its colonial past. In the first part of the dissertation, the influence of the Offences Against the Person Act (OAPA) of 1861 was discussed on abortion practices and laws around the world, including Jamaica. Currently Jamaica maintains one of the most unique positions, with abortion being illegal officially, but still performed as part of the status quo in particular situations. The discussion around abortion in Jamaica is inherently complex, stemming from colonial influences on modern sociopolitical and religious perspectives. This paper will aim to examine the historical development and modern ideologies on both sides of the debate in Jamaica and provide an in-depth discussion regarding sociopolitical context for current and future aspects of the abortion access status quo and policy.

Brief Background

As explored previously, the OAPA was a law written and passed in the UK parliament in 1861. As Great Britain was a colonial power at the time, its legislative framework was taken as the foundation for legislation in multiple colonies around the world, one of which was Jamaica which adopted the OAPA to its full extent in 1864. OAPA was a very broad law encompassing many physical interactions between individuals, and while it outlawed obvious crimes of assault and murder, many sexual and reproductive rights were banned as well including sodomy and abortion. 45 The use of legislative frameworks was complex aimed at establishing greater colonial control and manipulation of reproductive rights for racial purposes. Ever since the adoption of OAPA, Jamaica’s law on the matter of abortion has remained unchanged even after its independence in 1962.

Currently abortions are officially illegal and can be persecuted to the full extent of the law. resulting in significant prison time for patients, physicians, or other parties that are enabling the abortion procedure. However, the status quo in Jamaica is that abortions are performed unofficially for large sums of money in clinics that are willing to risk the procedure. As established in the first part of the dissertation, there is an ongoing discussion in Jamaica regarding the status of the OAPA law and abortion rights. 46 Due to the status quo of abortion access in the country, it is leading to extensive harm to the population as abortions are performed by unqualified personnel or in unsanitary conditions, with multiple cases garnering public attention. Although increasing abortion access has generally more support, the country is still relatively split between the ideologies of liberalization and conservatism, driven by Protestant church has a strong influence on the country and its leadership and remain a vocal opposition to abortion rights. 47 It is necessary to explore the various stakeholders and social influences that are playing a role in the national debate and to what extent is the sociopolitical context able to change historically and in the future.

Independence and Post-independence Events

The independence movement in Jamaica began in the 1920s as both professional classes and individuals of the mixed African and European ancestry sought to advocate for a representative government. Furthermore, black nationalism and Pan-Africanism was gaining tracking among the African diaspora, sharpened by the economic difficulties of the Great Depressions. By 1938, Jamaica established first labor unions, which were linked to political parties and a demand for self-determination. 48

In 1944, the Constitution was updated to establish a House of Representatives, resulting in universal adult suffrage. Eventually a two-party system emerged, and a modification of the constitution in 1953 resulted into creation of a cabinet under a premier. By 1958, two distinct were in power, the People’s National Party (PNP) under the leadership of Norman Manley who won the elections of 1959; and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) led by Sir Alexander Bustamante. Despite Manley being the premier, Bustamante pushed for Jamaican independence, and under a referendum in 1961 to uphold the secession, and general elections in April 1962, Bustamante became premier. On August 6, 1962, Jamaica became an independent state with full dominion status in the Commonwealth, under the constitution which retained the British monarch as head of state. Jamaica quickly joined international organizations such as the IMF and OAS and became a strong trading partner with the United States. In the first decade, the JLP maintained power, initiating reforms for education, cultural heritage promotion, and infrastructure development. The island nation sought to establish its identity and independence in the post-colonial period. 49

Political Parties, History, and Positions on Abortion

Since its independence in 1962, Jamaica has largely maintained a two-party system between the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the People’s National Party (PNP). While the system is not set in the constitution, over 46 minority political parties that have been formed since have been unsuccessful in achieving any meaningful foothold in parliament and eventually disintegrate. Over the almost 50 years of parliamentary proceedings, outside of the unique outlier of the 1983 general elections, the power between both parties is relatively balanced, with neither getting more than 60% of the vote and respective assembly seats. As of the 2020 elections, the Jamaica Labour Party holds power with 57% of the vote and 49 seats under the second-term Prime Minister Andrew Holness while the PNP is in the minority as the opposition party. 50

The JLP was founded by Alexander Bustamante in 1943, as the political entity of his industrial trade union. It was a minority party until Jamaica’s independence referendum and general elections at which point it won the majority of seats in 1962. Despite common misconception from its name, the JLP is not a social democratic party, but positions itself as a conservative political entity. The JLP supports a market-driven economy and individual responsibility. In the 21st century, the JLP maintains its conservative position on a number of social issues based on the support of Christian values. JLP officials have openly expressed homophobia and hate speech towards non-traditional lifestyles. 51 There is no official position or statement from the party on the issue of abortion.

The PNP was founded in 1938 by Osmond Theodore Fairclough, also a strong campaigner for Jamaican independence similar to his political rival Bustamante. The PNP positions itself is a social-democratic party, maintaining standard views of this political philosophy based in socialism, economic democracy, social justice, and equality. It is arguably the “people’s party” supporting on social welfare, income redistribution, regulation of the market economy, and supporting popular social reform demanded by the population. 52 Similar to the JLP, the PNP has no official stance on abortion and remains “in discussions” about the party’s position.

In theory, the JLP is positioned to be as a pro-life party in the abortion debate, while the PNP is meant to be pro-choice. However, interestingly, neither party, including the Prime Minister’s office of the ruling JLP, have issued a statement on the issue. Ironically, the primary politician leading the charge to reform OAPA and decriminalize abortion is PM Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn is from the JLP, supported by a large number of women that have gained seats in recent elections. Examining the party politics of the issue, it is clear that parties are attempting to avoid a full out ‘civil war’ by making definitive statements which would cause major realignment on the political spectrum and shifting of MPs between these parties. The unofficial position of the PNP is that the issue should be decided by parliamentarians in conscience vote, while the JLP believes that a grand referendum is necessary. 53

History, Role, and Position of the Church in Jamaica

Jamaica has a diverse religious diaspora, supported by the constitutional right for freedom of worship. While in the early days of Jamaican colonial history, Roman Catholicism was the first established religion, once Jamaica became a British colony, Protestantism was introduced in 1664. Protestantism with its various denominations is the primary religion in modern-day Jamaica, encompassing approximately 60% of the population. The three leading denominations are the Church of God (21.2%), Seventh-day Advenist (9%), and Baptist (8.8%). The Protestant church has deeply tied roots to Jamaican culture, not only from its colonial past, but also an association with the black nationalism movement which allowed for the country to obtain its independence. The Protestant church sought to improve the lives of black populations who suffered from the colonial rule, and in modern-day plays a key role in providing community services and support.

Christianity is deeply embedded into Jamaican life and culture frame. There are extensive religious institutions present, both in urban and rural environments, often exceeding those of private or public facilities. Ordinary people and political or media personalities often cite biblical aphorisms, while businesses and organizations hold prayers. Many aspects of culture such as literature, theater, film, and artisanship have been influenced by religious concepts and remain pertinent in society. 54 It is important to emphasize the role of the Church in Jamaica, which encompasses a larger community than that of political activism or unions combined. Since political culture is dictated by changes in social structure and cultural beliefs, the Church effectively has a strong influence over politics in the country. 55 There is a dominance of religio-conceptual tradition in political history which has deep impacts through the provision of conservative theory, leadership, and organization in opposition to the liberationist tradition. 56

As expected, the Protestant Church in Jamaica generally opposes abortion driven by its dogma and widely accepted Christian beliefs that life begins at conception. While there may be some differences in opinion in regard to termination of pregnancy, ranging from being prohibited completely (unless direct danger to mother’s life) to some permittance in cases of rape, incest, or severe fetus abnormality. However, the general consensus among Protestants is that abortion should not be utilized as means of contraception or an option for an unwanted pregnancy. 57 As discussed in later sections, this reflects the attitudes of the majority religious population which opposes ‘on-demand’ abortion services even if the practice is decriminalized. Religious leaders in Jamaica from both Protestant and Catholic denominations have pushed vocal opposition to legalizing abortion in the country, citing that it “would be the beginning of the death culture” – a highly emotional and hyperbolic response often seen in religion’s response to sensitive issues of morality.

Spheres of Influence Affecting Abortion Access

While the de jure influence of OAPA has been established, continuing to pose significant criminal risk despite the abortion procedure being performed de facto in certain situations, the context remains relatively complex. Prior to discussing the confrontational politics of the issue in the country, it is critical to establish the foundations on the spheres of influence which ultimately severely limit abortion services access for Jamaicans.

The primary legal sphere of influence is OAPA 1864 which remains as the sole Jamaican law or even government guideline on abortion, being unchanged despite multiple amendments to the national constitution. Under OAPA, the woman procuring an abortion can face life imprisonment, while those helping and advising her on this path, or performing the procedure itself, including physicians, can face up to 3 years in prison. While these arrests are admittedly rare, at least ones that are publicly known, they are possible, and several public cases have emerged in recent years. 58 As discussed in the first part of the dissertation, the risk falls strongly on medical professionals, which makes many of them reluctant to aid in abortions, even for significant financial compensation as it could cost them their wellbeing if law enforcement chooses to prosecute, which it has full authority to do under OAPA and the Jamaican constitution. Therefore, for Jamaicans which already struggle in finding safe environments with appropriate staff to perform abortions are even further disenfranchised by the legal framework.

As mentioned previously, the Protestant Church and religion in general has a significant influence over life and culture in Jamaica. The church is actively promoting an anti-abortion stance in virtually all circumstances unless there is evident danger to the life of the mother. Religious leaders, both locally and nationally are conducting influence campaigns that strengthen the pro-life position and guide the faithful towards this mindset. While younger generations may not be as influenced by the Church, it sets expected values for society which strongly opposes abortion. Those that seek abortion, even in dire circumstances, are extremely stigmatized and shamed in their communities. Therefore, religion plays a role as a sphere of influence by driving the beliefs surrounding abortion, either by forcing women to not seek it because they believe it is a sin or because of stigmatization that they would face from others, as well as driving the general attitudes of voters towards reform of the OAPA law.

Socioeconomic

There is a tremendous socioeconomic influence in abortion access. Due to the high risks posed by the legal framework in Jamaica, those clinicians which choose to perform abortions can charge significant amounts of money. It has been established in the first part of the dissertation that abortion access is inequitable due to the socioeconomic factors of the majority of the working-class population both lacking the finances for it as well as not having the connections necessary to secure a safe environment to perform it. Abortions can cost anywhere from $300 to potentially thousands of dollars in Jamaica depending on the circumstance, while the average weekly salary is approximately $40. 59 Considering that those seeking abortions are primary from lower socioeconomic classes due to lack of access to contraception or elements of rape.

Development of Abortion Politics in Jamaica

Abortion is a centuries old practice of terminating pregnancy. Jamaica for the majority of the 17 th and 18 th century remained a slave colony, where African slaves were worked on sugar plantations. After the end of the British Atlantic slave trade in 1807, slave women were vital for the future of plantation slavery across the British Caribbean, including Jamaica. However, slaves in the Caribbean were experiencing significantly lesser fertility rates than their North American counterparts which was highly concerning for white slave owners. Between 1807 and 1834, the slave population decreased by 12%. While there may have been biological challenges to reproduction and cultural practices, one influential aspect was the practices of abortion and infanticide by female slaves. African women were known to use a combination of herbs and infusions for contraceptive purposes, while plants such as okra and aloe that were imported to the Caribbean were abortifacients. The white plantation owners condemned the slave women for the frequent instances of self-abortion that were ongoing. Doctors at the time suggested that abortions were common by young females finding themselves pregnant, attempting to procure it by every means available. They drew a connection between infertility and dropping slave population rates and these common abortion practices. 60

The first part of the dissertation discussed briefly how abortion was utilized by female slaves as a method of resistance against slavery and attempting to have control over their bodies. The women would thus assert control over reproductive capacity as well as prevent their offspring to be bound to the horrific conditions of perpetual slavery. 61 Then came the OAPA of 1861, passed in 1864. Also, as discussed previously, it was a legal framework which sought to restrict bodily autonomy and criminalize the actions that were counter to the socioeconomic goals of the global system of slavery at the time. It was a system of control and regulation that resulted in further cultural transformation under colonialism and established the colonial relations of power that centered around production and reproduction. 62 It is already at this time that the discourse of politics surrounding abortion was gaining traction. As evident, it was a widespread issue in the Caribbean colonies. However, due to lack of medical expertise and technology at the time, these discussions of self-abortion among slave women were purely speculative, even with the passage of OAPA. It was difficult to determine whether a baby was stillborn, premature, or aborted, and Jamaican courts saw infanticide and abortion as the most difficult to prove than any other offence. 63

Upon independence in 1962, Jamaica maintained the OAPA in place as common law which makes it a felony to procure an abortion or provide abortion services and drugs to conduct the abortion procedure. Section 13(12) (c) of the Constitution of Jamaica seeks to protect and prioritize the life of the unborn. However, OAPA does not indicate circumstances under which abortion is unlawful, so typically the precedent is set by the R v. Bourne 1938 case which allows abortions in cases to preserve life and physical health of the mother. In 1975, Health Minister Kenneth McNeil publicly proposed legislation to establish guidelines for legal and safe abortions, but no progress was made. Despite other Caribbean and Latin American Nations decriminalizing and liberalizing abortion to some extent through the 20 th century, Jamaica has not sought to modify its colonial-based law. 64 The reason to this is unclear, as the racial undertones of the original law are no longer relevant. There is little evidence that abortion was a topic of public or political discourse at all prior to the early 2000s in Jamaica.

In the mid-2000s, the abortion debate began to gain traction in the public discourse in Jamaica. This occurred due to a high-profile case of a 14-year-old girl being admitted and dying from severe complications after a botched abortion. Minister Hanna of the PNP made a political pronouncement condemning the abortion law, suggesting that the beliefs of the conservative religious right both ignored the rights of women as well as prevailed the rights of the fetus over that of the mother even in cases of rape, incest, or severe defect. 65 In 2007, an Abortion Review Advisory Group submitted a report the Minister of Health, Daley which recommended the repeal of the criminal legislation and issuing guidelines for lawful termination of pregnancies according to modern standards of safety, trained personnel, and safe specified health centers. The recommendations never saw implementation, and the next administration simply established a joint select committee to further explore the issue. 66

The national sociopolitical discussion on the issue of abortion highlighted that common ‘de facto’ law where abortions could be carried inherently perpetuated a cycle of inequality since only the rich were able to afford the few safe locations of performing abortions (essentially paying for the risk), while unplanned pregnancies for the poor in inner-city communities condemned families to a lifetime of poverty. The Joint Select Committee was hearing arguments from both sides in the early 2010s, but anecdotal evidence suggests that many women in the population were frustrated that the abortion issue was framed in the context of morality and fetus rights, without any consideration for reasons or well-being of the women. A women’s rights organization issued a statement at the time, “To continue to criminalise abortion puts women’s lives at risk and suggests that the right of the foetus outweighs the right of women to have control over their own body and life.” 67 Meanwhile, the pro-life religious groups such as Missionaries of the Poor and Slice of Reality portrayed the women seeking abortions as mentally ill. These groups also challenged politicians supporting abortion as being barbaric and evil, in their efforts to secure financial gain from the US and EU which required abortion rights as a requirement to receive funding for development and health programs such as HIV/AIDS prevention. 68

Notably, the latest major amendment to the Jamaican constitution in 2011 as part of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms Act, 2011, meant to incorporate the UN Universal Declaration of Human rights into Jamaican law, left the abortion issue untouched. In fact, the amendment indicated that in regard to offences regarding sexuality and the life of the unborn should be subject to the previous existing law, which is OAPA. Public opinion was disregarded, and the law that was meant to provide more human rights essentially ignored some of the most critical rights in the context of abortion and reproductive rights, likely due to the strong influence of the church on the government. 69

The discussion of abortion continued to arise periodically through the 2010s, with some progress of acceptance and widespread political discourse led by certain ministers as mentioned in the first part of the dissertation and this paper as well. However, as of 2021, two major occurrences pushed the debate to a new level politically and invigorated supporters of decriminalization of abortion. The first, was a comprehensive study published by the Caribbean Policy Research Institute (CAPRI) which sought to highlight the social costs of abortion bans in Jamaica. The reported noted that at least 22,000 (most likely thousands more that are unregistered) illegal abortions are conducted annually. As a result, US$1.4 million of taxpayer money is spent annually to fund a struggling healthcare system to deal with the complications of unsafe abortions across the island. 70 The sum is both extremely substantial for a poor developing nation, and it would take much less to provide a basic education and abortion infrastructure in the country and avoid these sunk costs on a yearly basis; money that could be diverted to better support of the healthcare system. The report notes that no official figures on abortion, but they affect between 10 and 37 percent of all national pregnancies annually, and the majority of the abortion procedures are clandestine. The recommendation by the report is to initiate an anonymous conscience vote in the Jamaican parliament to repeal sections 72 and 73 of OAPA, as well as to provide publicly funded reproductive health services and termination of pregnancy services, including with access to minors. 71

Furthermore, another event which changed the discourse around abortion in the Caribbean is a recent December 2020 landmark vote in Argentina which complexly legalized abortions up to 14 weeks of pregnancy. Argentina is a Latin American country, which similarly maintained stringent abortion laws (although not based on OAPA) and has a very strong religious influence of the Catholic church on culture and politics. Advocates in the country focused on public health consequences and impact on women in poverty similar to the strategy of supporters in Jamaica, and while a similar law failed in 2018, two years later it was a success. Experts believe the Argentinian example could have a ripple effect on the Latin American and Caribbean region since like Jamaica, abortion was believed to be a politically untouched issue in Argentina for decades. Meanwhile, journalistic accounts indicate that the Catholic Church was lobbying hard to influence any undecided senators, parallel to the Protestant Church in Jamaica. 72

MP Cuthbert Flynn that is at the forefront of the legal efforts to decriminalize abortion in a bipartisan coalition, indicated these events as highly important. She has noted that the CAPRI report and hopefully other studies in the future allow for more Jamaicans to have an open mind on the issue and support the effort. Meanwhile, the Argentinian example is a stimulating force for the grassroots advocacy movement indicating that despite decades long failure, the legalization of abortion is possible, even in the context of highly conservative governments. 73 Nevertheless, religious leaders continue to use inflammatory language, calling upon Prime Minister Holness to silence MPs like Cuthbert Flynn and attempt to guilt government officials and regular people by indicating that by supporting abortion, they lose their moral authority. The Protestant Church continues to pressure the government to eliminate the abortion discussion from its agenda completely, focusing instead on creating a committee comprised of church representatives and civil groups that could assist pregnant women through adoption and foster care. 74

Therefore, in conclusion, the politics surrounding abortion are currently highly complex, tense, and inflammatory, but demonstrating slow but gradual progress towards meaningful reform. The status quo will not change until there is significant enough sociopolitical pressure for the political parties and leadership to take official stances and a conscience vote to go through in the parliament. Socially, the reforms would be largely accepted and welcomed, but without the appropriate legal frameworks shifting the de jure force of the OAPA colonial legislation could theoretically remain in place for many more decades to come.

Changing Attitudes and Opportunities for the Future

Opinions and attitudes towards abortion are notably shifting in Jamaica along with other cultural changes such as gender representation in politics. As of 2021, a record 29% of parliamentary seats are taken by women. Led by PM Juliet Cuthbert Flynn, there is a growing opposition to the current abortion law and support for reform, including from a number of male lawmakers such as Morais Guy who is a health spokesman. Health Minister Christopher Tufton has noted support for a conscience vote in parliament. 75 Notably, the movement in support of abortion rights on the island has grown from grassroots activism towards mainstream discussion. The very fact of recognition of this discussion at the highest levels of government suggests changing tides.

However, there is a continuing strong opposition, as religious leaders of the Protestant community are pushing back against reform. A Christian youth group, Love March Movement has gathered over 13,000 signatures rejecting a conscience vote on abortion. 76 Nevertheless, 67% of men and 82% of women support decriminalizing abortion according to a 2018 survey. 77 Meanwhile, in recent months, a local website focused on people sharing their abortion experiences anonymously went viral in Jamaica. Hundreds of women presenting anecdotal evidence regarding the detriment that the law ultimately brings has made the conversation even more public catching the attention of local and international news. Even though the stories are shared anonymously, it represents a much wider trend of people being more open about their abortion experiences in Jamaica, and using this to advocate for appropriate legislation. 78 Notably, the lawmaker Cuthbert Flynn, who is leading the charge, has had an abortion at the age of 19 due to a brain tumor that would have had made her blind if she did not proceed with the procedure. Similar emotional stories were shared by brave women in front of the Parliament’s Human Resources and Social Development Committee during the 2019 hearings, which ultimately triggered the discussion around the need for a conscience vote in Parliament. 79

Although, it may be decades before a complete liberalization of abortion would be possible in Jamaica, the first steps would be to decriminalize it through amending of OAPA, with bills ready for vote in parliament. Even with widespread support, the public remains deeply religious, and approximately 70% oppose abortion on demand. It is likely that upon success of a conscience vote in parliament, Jamaica would modify OAPA as to make abortion legal in cases of rape, incest, and health issues with the mother or child, to preserve the physical and mental health of the woman as currently practiced in a number of Caribbean and Latin America nations. While countries such as Barbados, Belize, and St. Vincent and Grenadines allow for socioeconomic reasons to abort, while Cuba and Puerto Rico have no restriction at all, it is unlikely that would be the immediate trajectory in Jamaica. Due to the continued influence of the church on politics, it is likely that lawmakers from both parties realize the realities of the status quo. In other words, it may be necessary to compromise initially through small progress of decriminalization and a slight expansion of parameters where abortion is permitted.

Therefore, when examining the future of the abortion issue in Jamaica, it is difficult to predict what will occur. As evident, this is not the first time that there has been a push to repeal OAPA and decriminalize abortion. However, the liberal influence in the modern world, the technology which allows women to connect and garner support, and the changing public perspectives are gradually pushing the country towards this meaningful social reform. There are numerous opportunities to support and promote this change. From a developmental governing perspective, as part of UN’s Vision 2030 Sustainable Development Plan for Jamaica, abortion rights are a key health and social equality indicator that should be addressed. 80

There is also prominent opportunity to educate the public, particularly taking into account the various spheres of influence discussed earlier. Anti-abortion stigma and strong opinions are often based in ideology, not fact. In developing countries, there is typically underwhelming education, particularly when it comes to sensitive issues, leading to myths about abortion to flourish. International organizations and experts emphasize that to ensure access to safe abortion that is free from stigma and discrimination, factual information about reproductive health and laws surrounding it has to be provided and a safe space for discussion created in the local political discourse. 81

The limitations to this research are that it is based solely on secondary research and report, with no primary investigation being conducted. Another issue is that the author is forced to speculate on a number of concepts based on available information. Due to extremely limited literature on the topic, many of the aspects that could potentially warrant further or deeper discussion, were not explored due to lack of information. This presents opportunities for further research, particularly expanding scholarly discourse on the society, culture, and policy in Jamaica regarding abortion. In the process of research, there was some academic discourse on aspects such as LGBTQ rights in the Caribbean, which are also associated with OAPA restrictions. However, in the context of abortion the literature is lacking outside of several medical and historical analysis articles, potentially because there has been so little progress both politically and culturally in Jamaica in relation to this subject.

This paper concludes the two-part dissertation focused on the state of abortion rights and legislation in the Caribbean island nation of Jamaica. The second part presented here focuses on the history of Jamaica and the development of the politics surrounding abortion rights in the post-colonial and modern-day period after the country has gained its independence and was no longer influenced by the colonial framework of OAPA discussed in the first part. It is evident that the issue is inherently complex, placed in the center of multiple spheres of influence including legal frameworks of the past, religious ideology, socioeconomic divides, and political dynamics. Despite the various factors, the status quo in Jamaica has largely remained the same for decades, with abortion being illegal but practiced unofficially by those with either the money or willingness to take the risk. Nevertheless, modern-day politics of recent years have strongly pushed towards decriminalization of abortion and appropriate legal and social reforms to prevent the multiple adverse events affecting women in the population due to the inability to access abortion services legally and safely. There are key opportunities for change at this time as the political and social dynamics are shifting away from highly conservative influences of past frameworks and religious beliefs towards a greater acceptance of this vital reproductive right.

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• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2022, June 20). The Politics of Abortion in Modern Day Jamaica. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-politics-of-abortion-in-modern-day-jamaica/

"The Politics of Abortion in Modern Day Jamaica." IvyPanda , 20 June 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/the-politics-of-abortion-in-modern-day-jamaica/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'The Politics of Abortion in Modern Day Jamaica'. 20 June.

IvyPanda . 2022. "The Politics of Abortion in Modern Day Jamaica." June 20, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-politics-of-abortion-in-modern-day-jamaica/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Politics of Abortion in Modern Day Jamaica." June 20, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-politics-of-abortion-in-modern-day-jamaica/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Politics of Abortion in Modern Day Jamaica." June 20, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-politics-of-abortion-in-modern-day-jamaica/.

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