WASHINGTON, DC – The 32 members of the Organisation of American States (OAS), have unanimously passed a Resolution to name its Hall of Culture, in honour of Jamaica’s first National Hero, the Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey.
In piloting the Resolution at the Permanent Council of the OAS meeting, held at the OAS headquarters in Washington, D.C., on Friday, August 29, Grenada’s Ambassador to the United States and Dean of CARICOM Caucus of Ambassadors, Dennis Antoine, said Mr. Garvey inspired people the world over, through his profound messages of freedom, self-determination, racial pride and his unswerving commitment to social justice, equality and human rights. “Such a man is deserving of this honour by this august body,” the Ambassador said.
Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organisation of American States (OAS), Anthony Johnson, said the passing of the Resolution by the OAS Permanent Council is important for Jamaica and to the region as a whole.
“It is also important for those who follow the history of the region and believe that our contribution to the world is important,” the Ambassador said.
“This honour to Marcus Garvey by the OAS, which reflects the development, aspiration (and) achievements of the people of Latin America and the Caribbean, is reflective of 100 years of relationship between Marcus Garvey, his ideals and the people of Jamaica,” he added.
The Marcus Garvey Cultural Hall will be located on the ground floor of the OAS main building. According to Jamaica’s Alternate Representative to the OAS, Ann Scott, an appropriate function would be held later this year, at which time the Marcus Garvey Hall of Culture would be officially opened.
A bust of Marcus Garvey is on display in the Hall of Heroes at the OAS. (JIS)
