By Senator Leroy Comrie, 14th Senate District
Ricardo Makyn/AFP via Getty Images
Over the past few weeks, the world has witnessed the devastation left behind by Hurricane Melissa across Jamaica: homes destroyed, infrastructure washed away, and entire communities struggling to recover. For those of us with deep family ties to the island, this disaster is not distant news, it’s personal. Jamaica is more than a country we trace our roots to; it’s a part of who we are.
I want to begin by extending my deepest prayers and solidarity to the people of Jamaica as they face the difficult task of rebuilding. From St. Ann to St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland to St. James, countless families have lost everything. Roads and bridges have been damaged or destroyed. Farmers have lost their crops and livestock, and roofs have been blown to smithereens. Thousands remain without reliable access to power, clean water and transportation.
In the wake of this tragedy, we are reminded of Jamaica’s greatest strength: the resilience of its people. Time and again, Jamaicans have shown that no storm, no matter how powerful, can break their spirit. That determination is inspiring and it is something the world should never take for granted.
Still, resilience alone cannot rebuild a nation. Jamaica needs sustained, coordinated support, not only emergency aid, but a long-term commitment to restore and strengthen its infrastructure. This is a moment that calls for serious investment, collaboration and innovation. As someone who represents one of the largest Caribbean communities in New York, I stand ready to use my platform to raise awareness and build bridges of support, even as the nation seeks to rebuild or strengthen literal bridges.
My office has already been in touch with community partners and consular officials to identify trusted relief organizations. We are encouraging residents to donate responsibly, volunteer where possible and keep the focus on rebuilding efforts that truly reach those most in need.
Beyond immediate relief, we must also prioritize prevention and preparation. Jamaica’s infrastructure, from its roads and drainage systems to its electrical grids, must be rebuilt with the future in mind. Climate change has made storms more frequent and more destructive. If we want to protect the next generation, we must ensure that what is rebuilt now will endure.
That means investing in resilient housing, reinforcing coastal and hillside communities and modernizing the systems that connect Jamaica’s economy. Every bridge, every road and every utility line rebuilt today is a promise to future generations that their country will not only recover but thrive and endure.
I also want to encourage Jamaica’s partners in the diaspora, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and beyond, to continue stepping up. The Jamaican spirit doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. Whether through donations, expertise, or advocacy, the diaspora plays an essential role in the rebuilding process. Many of the engineers, doctors and entrepreneurs in our communities have the knowledge and resources to make a lasting difference “back home.”
In the days ahead, it will be crucial for Jamaica’s government and the diaspora to work hand-in-hand – sharing ideas, coordinating efforts and ensuring that every dollar and every initiative leads to meaningful impact. This is not the time for duplication or competition. It is a time for unity, accountability and shared vision.
There are lessons here for all of us in government as well. Natural disasters remind us of the importance of planning ahead, investing in strong infrastructure and caring for the most vulnerable. Whether in Jamaica, New York, or anywhere else, we must lead with empathy and foresight, understanding that communities are only as strong as the systems that support them.
In the coming weeks, I will continue working with partners here in Queens to raise awareness about Jamaica’s recovery efforts and connect residents to reliable information and trusted organizations providing aid. Our community has always shown up when it matters most and I have no doubt we will do so again.
To the people of Jamaica: please know that you are not alone. Your family abroad stands with you in prayer, in solidarity and in action. Together, we can rebuild what was lost and create something even stronger in its place.
May God bless Jamaica, her people, and all who continue to lift her up during this difficult time.
