MIRAMAR, FL – January 26, 2023 – Reggae icon Marcia Griffiths, OD (Order of Distinction), and a former member of Bob Marley’s backup singing group the I-Threes will be presented with the Reggae Icon award by City of Miramar Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis at the Awards ceremony, Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at the Miramar Cultural Center. The event, presented by Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis starts at 6:30 pm with Cocktails, followed by the awards ceremony, 7:30 pm to 11 pm. The event is free to the general public and tickets are available online at Eventbrite. Other awardees are the Founder of Stone Love Movement, Mr. Winston Powell, OD and Miami-Dade Commissioner Mrs. Marleine Bastien who will be presented with the Marcus Garvey Award.
“Each year, in February, celebrated as both Black History and Reggae month, dubbed as ‘Black History Meets Reggae,’ the City of Miramar hosts and stages several events that recognize the contributions made by African Americans and reggae icons from the music industry who have made significant contributions,” stated Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis. “There is no way we could allow a month dedicated to Black History and Reggae and not put the spotlight on those whose legacy we revere and whose lives have influenced our culture and way of life in such profound ways,” continued Commissioner Davis.
Marcia Griffiths, whose song “Electric Boogie” released in 1983 and is still a favorite among partygoers dancing in sync to the moves of the electric slide, is certainly one of the most iconic figures in musical history. She has an extensive and impressive music career dating back to the mid-70s and she is listed among the greats in music history.
Mr. Winston Powell OD, (Winston “Wee Pow” Powell) built the Stone Love sound system in 1972, using locally built amplifiers and started a cult following of music lovers all around the world. Stone Love broke out new artistes and music careers took off based on the popularity of the Stone Love party sessions. It was the Caribbean’s version of Studio 54 and was just as iconic in its day.
Ms. Marleine Bastien, Commissioner Miami-Dade and the executive director of the non-profit, Family Action Network Movement (FANM), established a global reputation of tireless advocacy for equity, economic empowerment, comprehensive immigration reform, and climate justice. She has championed rights for women, children, families, workers, the elderly, and LGBTQ worldwide.
The Awards is being sponsored in part by the Jamaica Tourist Board and is under the distinguished patronage of the Consul General of Jamaica Mr. R. Oliver Mair. A special message will be shared by Jamaican Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honorable Olivia “Babsy’ Grange.
For tickets, visit MiramarReggaeIconAwards23.eventbrite.com to register.
The City of Miramar is hosting other events over the month of February to commemorate Black History and Reggae month. There will be a DJ Selecta Showdown at the Shirley Branca Park on Friday, February 24th and the highly anticipated Afro-Carib Festival featuring Grammy award winner, Koffee along with other artistes on Saturday, February 25, 2023. These two events along with the Reggae Icon Awards round out an action-packed weekend of festivities. For more information on these and other events during the month, visit Miramarfl.gov/BHM.
