CPTC honours cultural guardians
Six of Jamaica’s cultural icons added the Creative Production Training Centre (CPTC) inaugural Medal of Honour to the long list of accolades that have already been bestowed on them for their contribution to the country’s cultural heritage.
The medals presented to representatives of the country’s late greats such as Louise Bennett-Coverley, affectionately called Miss Lou for championing Jamaican folk customs worldwide, Professor Ralston ‘Rex’ Nettleford for his contribution and development to dance and Wycliffe Bennett for helping to transform local broadcast and theatre.
Olive Lewin, founder of the Jamaica Folk Singers, who was instrumental in the preservation of the folklore culture and Professor Edward Baugh who has done significant work in the area of literacy were also awarded and were both on hand to accept their awards.
Reggae superstar Jimmy Cliff was also awarded with the medal for his remarkable contribution in the area of music. He was however absent from the ceremony.
The cultural icons were presented with the medal during the CPTC Cultural Medal of Honour Ceremony in the historic ballroom of King’s House in Kingston under the patronage of Governor General Sir Patrick Allen and Lady Allen.
The ceremony was the final activity in a series of activities to mark the CPTC 25 anniversary.
Culture minister Olivia Grange in her remarks, which was read by her Parliamentary Secretary, Senator Warren Newby, said that the icons were deserving of the award as they have all contributed immensely to the country’s cultural heritage.
“They have touched and continued to touch all facets of our lives,” she said.
Professor Baugh who responded on behalf of the honorees said, “I am very grateful, humbled and privileged to have been chosen among such illustrious awardees.”
He said the award was very appropriate and makes a bold and welcoming statement that the work that is being done in the promotion for Jamaica’s culture was being recognised.