Congresswoman Clarke Introduces Bill to Recognise Bob Marley’s Legacy

Jamaican-American Congresswoman Yvette Clarke has introduced a Bill in the United States House of Representatives, asking the Congress to recognise the life and legacy of legendary reggae artist Robert ‘‘Bob’’ Nesta Marley.

A copy of the resolution was presented to Ziggy Marley, son of the late reggae icon, by Congresswoman Clarke at a special screening of the ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ film at the Motion Pictures Association in Washington DC on February 13.

In presenting the resolution, Congresswoman Clarke said Bob Marley was an “activist for change, an ambassador of culture, and an icon for love. He taught us to live kinder and care deeper. His wisdom will guide my heart and so many others”.

She noted that “ ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ represents “a tremendous opportunity to introduce the profound story, timeless music, an incredible character and icon,” adding that the movie will bring about a Renaissance of Bob Marley’s music, not only in America but around the world.

In her comments, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Audrey Marks, said the sharing of Bob Marley’s story to the world is long overdue.

“I am happy that the world will get an intimate look into Marley’s life, exploring his upbringing in Jamaica and providing a better understanding of the man behind the music,” she said.

She said the release of the movie is timely as, with more than 110 conflicts worldwide, Bob Marley’s message of justice, hope, fight for freedom and love is needed now more than ever.

Ambassador Marks thanked Executive Vice President for Global Public Policy and Government Relations for Paramount Pictures, Dede Lea, and the team at Paramount, as well as the Marley Family, for making the film possible.

Ms. Lea praised the efforts of Ambassador Marks and the Government of Jamaica, through the Ministries of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport; Tourism; Finance and the Public Service; and Industry, Investment and Commerce for facilitating the Jamaican shoot of the movie.

She also used the opportunity to announce that Paramount Pictures has partnered with The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation to award ‘The Bob Marley: One Love Social Impact Scholarships’.

Paramount Pictures is providing $50,000 for the award of 10 scholarships to students attending selected Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), who are pursuing degree in community organising, non-profit management, public policy, or social justice-related degree programmes.

These HBCUs are Bowie State University, Clark Atlanta University, Dillard University, Florida A&M University, Hampton University, Morehouse College, Morgan State University, Spelman College, Texas Southern University, and Xavier University of Louisiana.

Applications are open April 1 through April 30, 2024.

To apply, students can visit https://cbcfinc.academicworks.com/.