A necklace that represents my family, nationality, and me. An object that’s most important to me is my beaded necklace my great-grandmother gave to me. My great-grandmother had claimed this necklace ata store she went and decided to pass it down. As a result of my grandmother’s passing my great-aunt passed the necklace to my mom, who then passed it down to me. This necklace is connected to a special holiday my family and i celebrate in Jamaica, Independence Day. Unlike America, Independence day in Jamaica is celebrated on August 6th. Each bead represents a symbol. Black symbolizes the strength and creativity of the people; Gold, natural beauty of the sunlight and the wealth of Jamaica, and finally, green depicts hope and agricultural resources. My necklace is important to me because it was a gift passed down from my generation and I am honored to have received the necklace. My necklace gives me some purpose and makes me feel connected to my culture. This necklace portrays symbolism of my family and nationality. Therefore, I will continue my family’s tradition and pass down the necklace to my daughter or one of my cousins.

– Jaeda Gentles

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more