Devon Taylor, a resident of Mamie Bay in St. Ann, Jamaica, reflects on the vibrant past of the beach, which was once filled with children, fishermen, and local vendors. Now, it faces barriers due to the integrated tourism model, criticized by activists as “plantation tourism” that benefits wealthy visitors at the expense of local communities.
In 2019, a luxury hotel investor fenced off the beach, leading to protests where local residents were violently evicted. Taylor, founder of the Jamaica Beach Native Environmental Movement (Jabem), highlights how access to the sea is crucial for survival. The ongoing struggle involves five beaches, with activists claiming that historical inequalities and colonial laws still restrict local access.
While government officials assert a commitment to improving beach access, activists accuse them of perpetuating privatization. Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s proposed policies are seen as insufficient. The movement, which includes a diverse group of activists, emphasizes the need to reclaim rights to the beaches, viewing the situation as a continuation of colonial exploitation. Taylor identifies as an “anti-colonial warrior,” dedicated to advocating for environmental and social justice.
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