The O'Neil W Grant Auditorium: A Tribute to Legacy and Leadership

By Shanee Grant

​On the rainy Thursday afternoon of September 21, 2023, at JACISERA Park, history was made as the members, staff and other stakeholders gathered to unveil the newly christened "The O'Neil W Grant Auditorium." This grand occasion marked a significant moment in the history of both the park and the Jamaica Civil Service Association (JCSA), as it honored contributions of a remarkable individual, Bro. O'Neil W Grant who is the Immediate Past President. The event was a testament to the power of community, leadership, and his indelible mark on the Association.

The program for this momentous occasion was orchestrated with care, led by the ever-charismatic Master of Ceremony, Sis. Rhonda Pryce. With her warm and engaging presence, Sis. Pryce set the tone for the event, welcoming attendees and reminding everyone of the importance of the day.

The program continued with an invocation led by Assistant Pastor Eswine Haye of Tarrant Baptist, who offered a heartfelt prayer to bless the proceedings and honor the memory of O'Neil W Grant. His words were a poignant reminder of the impact Mr. Grant had on the spiritual life of the community.
Sis. Tifonie Powell-Williams, the General Secretary, delivered a warm welcome address, highlighting the significance of the occasion. She expressed gratitude to all who had come to celebrate this momentous event and shared her personal reflections on the legacy of O'Neil W Grant.

Madame President, Sis. Techa Clarke-Griffiths greeted the attendees and acknowledged the significance of the day. She spoke passionately about the impact that Bro. Grant had on the community and how his vision had led to the creation of the auditorium they were about to unveil.

Following President Clarke-Griffiths, Bro. Errol Miller, Chairman of the Jamaica Civil Service Mutual Thrift Society (JCSMTS), took the stage. In a heartfelt speech, he shared personal anecdotes and stories about JACISERA Park and Bro. Grant's leadership, emphasizing the importance of honoring his work through the newly named auditorium.
Sis. Peta-Gaye Hodges then delivered an entertaining performance that showcased her talent and creativity. Her act was a fitting tribute to his enduring spirit.

As the sun began to set, the penultimate moment of the evening arrived – the Unveiling of "The O'Neil W Grant Auditorium." With great anticipation, the curtains covering the auditorium's name were drawn back, revealing beautiful calligraphy at the front of the auditorium with IPP Grant's name etched in black letters. The audience erupted in applause, their hearts filled with pride and gratitude for the man who had given so much to the Association.
​
Finally, IPP Grant himself addressed the audience. With humility and gratitude, he expressed his vision for the auditorium. He spoke of how it was meant for the members to enjoy, a place where the community could come together to celebrate, learn, and grow. He concluded by saying, "It is an honor to see this vision realized, and I hope it brings joy and inspiration to all who enter."

The O'Neil W Grant Auditorium will stand as a testament to the power of leadership, and his enduring legacy. It will serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come, reminding all who enter its doors, of the remarkable life and contributions of a man who has truly made a difference.