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Overseas Jamaicans’ Support
Marcus Garvey’s Liberty Hall

Washington Friends of Liberty Hall responded promptly to a call from their counterparts in Jamaica to assist with the establishment of a Multimedia Centre at the newly restored Liberty Hall in downtown Kingston.

Rev. Dun Taylor Bis. of NY Maureen Bunnyan ABC7 anchor woman

A highly successful benefit dinner was held on June 2, in Washington D.C. at the exotic Ortanique in the Sun Restaurant under the distinguished patronage of Ambassador Seymour Mullings, who attended with Mrs. Mullings.

The black-tie affair was supported by many Jamaicans and their friends as well as Diplomats, Washington Officials including Councilor Michael Fenty and his wife and Mrs. Williams, the mother of the Mayor.

Ms Maureen Bunyan, Aruban born of Guyanese descent, outstanding communications professional,  now anchorwoman for the ABC Channel 7, added flair to the evening's proceedings as Mistress of Ceremonies. (She emphasized interest in Jamaica.)
 

Ms Lorna Goodison, internationally acclaimed Jamaican poet, opened the evening's programme with readings from her works, some in honour of Garvey and others from Jamaica’s folklore which evoked memories and (which) was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience. Later, Professor Robert Hill and Professor Rupert Lewis, both highly acclaimed Garvey Scholars spoke on different aspects of Garvey and the relevance of Liberty Hall at this time. Professor Rupert Lewis is Chairman of the Jamaican Friends of Liberty Hall.

Other highlights were raffles of weekends in Jamaica courtesy of Air Jamaica, Round Hill, Sea Splash Resort and Country Country Hotel in Negril. There was also a display of (Jamaican) Art, donated by Jamaican Artists.

Mrs. Dorel Callender and Mr. Basil Buchanan, along with a hardworking committee spearheaded this first overseas event, which has motivated the call for similar events among Jamaicans in other overseas destinations.

The Washington Friends were assisted by the Jamaican

 Association of Maryland (Baltimore, MD).

Mrs. Norma Shirley was guest Chef at the delightful Ortanique Restaurant, owned by her son Delius.