The bust of a Jamaican political figure who campaigned for Africa’s freedom from colonial rule is now on permanent display in Brent Museum.
The unveiling of the sculpture of Marcus Garvey (1887-1940) took place at the museum inside Willesden Green Cultural Centre on Wednesday – his 129th birthday.
Mr Garvey was the leader of a Pan-Africanism movement and founder of the UNIA-ACL (Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League).
Not only did he campaign for Africa’s freedom but his ideas have inspired political leaders and civil rights activists across the globe.
Guests at the unveiling ceremony listened to speeches from Cllr James Allie, Dawn Butler MP, Jamaican Deputy High Commissioner Angela Rose-Howell and the Political and Economic Minister at Ghana High Commission Peter Taylor.
An audio-visual presentation on the history of Marcus Garvey and Garveyism was given by Kwaku, a representative from community organisation BTWSC (Beyond The Will Smith Challenge).
Ms Butler, said: “This is an important moment for the African- Caribbean community in Brent and beyond.
“To reveal the bust on his 129th birthday is a joyous and momentous occasion. In Brent Central, where we have the highest number of British Jamaican’s outside of Jamaica and I am so proud to be a part of this celebration.
“The contribution made by Jamaicans is often overlooked in the history books. This bust will serve as a reminder and it is important that we celebrate and educate each and every year.”
The campaign to arrange for the inclusion of the bust in the museum was collaboration between the Brent Museum and Archives team and the Friends of Marcus Garvey Collective.
The bust is on view on the second floor of the library located in High Road, Willesden.
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