Kingston Municipal Building renamed Marcus Garvey Building

Last week as Jamaicans and others in multiple nations marked the birthdate of Jamaica’s first National Hero, Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey, son of the legendary leader, Dr. Julius Garvey participated in an event to honor his late father, at the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation.

Dr. Garvey during his visit to the island, used the opportunity to encourage the Kingston’s local government representatives to uphold the standards of service, integrity, justice, and fairness that defined the legacy of his late father.

In reflecting on his father’s work, Dr. Julius Garvey told his listeners, overwhelmingly local politicians, that one of Marcus Garvey’s ‘s most remarkable traits was his dedication –not for himself, but to his people. “He was the perfect example of servant leadership,” Dr. Garvey stated as the group of Jamaicans gathered and listened to mark the 137th anniversary of the birth of the late Marcus Garvey.

Dr. Julius Garvey.Photo by Dawn Plummer

Dr. Garvey expressed, also that honoring Marcus Garvey is beyond mere recognition; “it should inspire action and commitment to serving communities across Jamaica…because we have a heavy responsibility,” he told the gathered guests.

He reminded the audience also of Marcus Garvey’s pursuit of excellence, which were demonstrated in his writings, historical insights, and his effective communication with people. He urged the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) members to uphold the standard of excellence in their work. “If you uplift Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation appropriately, in terms of governance and the things that you do for the people, it will resonate internationally, and we can link ourselves with other cities across the world,” he emphasized.

The Mayor of Kingston, Andrew Swaby echoed the sentiments of Dr. Julius Garvey noting that Marcus Garvey was once elected as a councilor, for the Allman Town Division, in Jamaica’s local government elections in 1929 and 1931. Mayor Swaby said the decision to name the chamber in honor and tribute to the National Hero, Marcus Garvey is a testimony to the late Garvey’s work as an advocate for fair wages for laborers and championing an eight-hour workday for employees of the then Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation.

Mayor Swaby characterized Marcus Garvey’s service as fierce advocacy for the marginalized, and a visionary leader despite overwhelming challenges. “His work in this very municipal corporation was marked by a steadfast belief that the upliftment of the people was not just a matter of charity, but a moral, political imperative, Swaby remarked.

The mayor stated that the naming of the chamber after Marcus Garvey is not just about commemorating his memory but was also about keeping his work alive. “These are living, breathing ideals that have the power to transform our society,” Mr. Swaby remarked.

Marcus Garvey the legendary Pan-Africanist was born in St. Anns, Jamaica on August 17, 1887, and is celebrated worldwide for his unwavering, commitment to the empowerment of Black people.