Following the recent Canadian tourist-related incidents in Jamaica, I wanted to take the opportunity to show my support for the island and its tourist industry. I have visited Jamaica twice - for a week in 2003 and last summer I stayed for six weeks, and I had an amazing and safe stay both times.

In 2008 I was lucky to stay in Robin's Bay, St Mary, and I never feared for my safety. The residents of St Mary showed me so much hospitality and kindness that I ended up extending my four-week stay to six weeks. I love Jamaica and the people I've been blessed to meet there.

It is a shame that the Montego Bay flight incident and the recent attack on the Quebec tourists are being portrayed in a manner that does not also consider the historic and socio-economic causes of crimes that occur in Jamaica. I feel for the tourists who have experienced the trauma that is undoubtedly caused by such occurrences, but this will not prevent me from returning to the island.

I am, etc.,

Fatimah Jackson

fatimahzjackson@gmail.com

Toronto, Canada