Caribbean culture
J’Ouvert is far more than a paint-and-powder street party. Its origins trace back to the colonial era in Trinidad, where enslaved Africans used pre-dawn rituals of mud, masquerade, and music to resist oppression and preserve their culture. Today, J’Ouvert symbolizes equality, freedom, and resilience, uniting communities in celebration while keeping alive the memory of struggle and liberation. To dismiss it as mere chaos is to ignore its powerful history and meaning.

The upcoming 2025 Penn Relays in Philadelphia will not only highlight exceptional track and field performances, particularly from Jamaican athletes like Usain Bolt, Kemoy Campbell, and Moya Thompson, but also transform the city into a Caribbean cultural hub. Attendees can indulge in authentic Jamaican cuisine from local vendors and restaurants, partake in reggae and dancehall festivities, and support organizations like Team Jamaica Bickle. TJB’s annual Labor of Love Luncheon will play a pivotal role in rallying support for Caribbean athletes, ensuring their continued excellence at the Penn Relays.
-
Pages