Jamaicans the world over are attending events in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Dr Louise Bennett Coverley, aka “Miss Lou”.
Special events have been organised in Jamaica and the diaspora over 100 days, from Sept. 1 to Dec. 10, to celebrate the late Jamaican cultural icon.
The celebrations are highlighting Miss Lou’s various roles of folklorist, poet, actress, author, songwriter, comedienne, singer and activist.
Junior minister Lenford Salmon said that diaspora groups in Toronto, Florida and London, are planning activities to honour Miss Lou.
Major events in Jamaica include a Miss Lou Scrap Book launch; a Declaration of the Louise Bennett Park at the University of the West Indies, Mona; a Miss Lou Media Quiz; the Aunty Roachy Festival; the Ring Ding Concert, and island wide flash mobs in honour of Miss Lou.
There are events and activities planned outside of Kingston, including tribute concerts, displays, exhibitions and cultural competitions. There were Miss Lou celebrations in schools during National Heritage Week 2019 in August.
Born on Sept. 7, 1919, Miss Lou authored several books, including Jamaica Labrish, Anancy and Miss Lou, and Aunty Roachy Seh. In 1998, she received the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters from York University in Toronto.
Miss Lou was appointed a Member of the Order of Merit for her contribution to arts and culture in 2001. Miss Lou died in 2006, in Canada, aged 87.
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