Vybz Kartel among five Jamaican artistes to receive proclamation and keys to Broward County
Dancehall kingpin Vybz Kartel added another accolade to his growing list of achievements Monday night, when he received the key to Broward County in Florida, as well as proclamations from the City of Lauderhill, the State of Florida and Congress.
Spragga Benz, Beenie Man, Busy Signal and Wayne Wonder also received the same honour by the mayor for their contributions to music as well as their humanitarian efforts.
The presentations were made at a commission meeting at Lauderhill City Hall by Jamaican-born Denise Grant, mayor of Lauderhill.
In a video shared online, Vybz Kartel reacted to the honour.
“It’s a pleasure, it’s a very humbling thing, so, you know my motto already, God is the Greatest. Big up the artiste dem, all the G dem pon di panel. Miss Mayor, big up, nuff love, thank you guys,” said Vybz Kartel.
Mayor Grant shared with Observer Online that Vybz Kartel’s impact on the musical landscape internationally and his humanitarian efforts justified the recognition.
“Vybz Kartel, like the other international artists being honoured, is an influential figure in today’s culture. His music is heard across the world, and both young and mature people alike are impacted by his work. As the mother of an 18-year-old and the mayor of a city that celebrates reggae music, I’ve come to know his sound,” said Mayor Grant.
She continued, “We have chosen to honour Mr Palmer for his humanitarian efforts demonstrated after the category five hurricane devastated areas of Jamaica. His humanitarian outreach is undeniable and gave hope to Jamaica in a time of need. We are grateful to honour his contribution and commend him for using his artistry and influence for goodwill.”
The mayor further extended congratulations to Vybz Kartel, Beenie Man, Busy Signal, Spragga Benz and Wayne Wonder.
The recognition to the artistes was hosted by Mayor Grant with the assistance of Commissioner Hazelle P Rogers, County Commissioner Alexandra P Davis, Florida State Senator Rosalind Osgood, State Representative Lisa Dunkley, State Representative Darryl Campbell, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Commissioner Marlon Bolton, and Tamarac Representative and the Consul General of Jamaica Oliver Mair, who all supported the initiative.
