Veteran singer Marcia Griffiths and dancehall veteran Beenie Man are the headliners for this year’s Jamaica Independence celebration in Lauderhill, Florida.

The 64th staging is scheduled for the Lauderhill Performing Arts Centre on August 8 and is presented by Jamaican born Mayor Denise Grant and Commissioner John T Hodgson.

In an interview with Observer Online on Tuesday, Mayor Grant spoke about the significance of hosting the Jamaica Independence celebrations in Lauderhill.

“It’s deeply significant. Lauderhill is home to one of the largest Jamaican diaspora communities in the United States. This celebration is more than an event — it’s cultural pride, identity, and expression for thousands of residents who carry Jamaica in their hearts. Co-hosting with my colleague, John T Hodgson means we honor our heritage wherever we are, and I’m grateful that we get to do it together,” said Grant, who also shared that Jamaicans comprise 27 per cent of the population in Lauderhill.

“Lauderhill is a city of 75,000 residents, and Jamaicans make up 27 per cent of our population — over 20,000 strong. That’s not just a number. That’s a community with deep roots, economic impact, and cultural influence. When Lauderhill celebrates Jamaica, we celebrate who we are.”

Describing the entertainment that will be on show at the event, Grant said that it will be a full celebration of reggae, dancehall and the sounds that have shaped our music.

The powerhouse lineup will also include performances by Mikey Spice, Shuga, Empress Uneek and Mical Rustle.

“Expect a night to remember. This is an elegant, theater-style experience with world-class performances, authentic Jamaican cuisine, and the energy only our people can bring. And the celebration doesn’t end when the curtain falls — patrons will also have the opportunity to attend a special birthday celebration for Beenie Man right after the show,” said Mayor Grant.

“This is a purposeful event, rooted in duty. My colleague, Commissioner John T Hodgson, and I are both Jamaican-born, and we understand what Independence means to our people. It is our responsibility to give our constituents — many living thousands of miles from home — the opportunity to celebrate, to remember, and to pass that pride to the next generation. Our intent is to make this an annual tradition: a cultural anchor for Lauderhill’s Jamaican community and friends of Jamaica everywhere.”