Year after year Jamaicans memorise the lines of their favourite songs. Students put in relentless hours practising for the festival competitions and Jamaicans partake of the island's independence celebrations.

However, little thought may go into those responsible for staging and planning these events: the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC).

Yesterday, The Gleaner honoured the JCDC for its contribution in furthering and facilitating the cultural capacity of the nation.

Acting executive director of the JCDC, Delroy Gordon, said the 2009 Gleaner Honour Award for arts and culture was humbling and gratifying.

"In terms of the organisation, we are honoured and elated to have been so considered," Gordon said after receiving the award at a special luncheon at the newspaper's North Street offices, central Kingston. "We do our work, difficult as it might be, but we do it with dedication, not with the intention of receiving an award. So that is why, coming at a time in particular when the challenges are tremendous, it will help as a great morale boost for the staff and the organisation overall."

Overseen activities

Since 1963, when it was formed as the Jamaica Festival Committee, the organisation has overseen activities, starting in June and ending in August, to mark Jamaica's independence from Britain.

This independence has been infused into the creative DNA of the island, and Gordon hopes that Jamaica continues to stand out.

"We need to recognise that our culture is that one thing that makes us different from everyone else. It provides us with an identity and that culture makes us extremely rich," he said. "When we look the world over, everyone wants to be like Jamaica."

While the music events of the JCDC's calendar get the lion's share of attention, their roster also includes competitions in culinary, traditional folk forms, speech and dance. The JCDC year actually starts in September and ends 11 months later with independence celebrations. In the 'off season', the commission organises weddings, funerals and state visits.

The Grand Gala, held in August, is a favourite among Jamaicans during festival season. Last year, thousands of people lined the streets of Kingston to witness the float. The enthusiasm reminded old-timers of a simpler time in Jamaica.