In a significant move to honor reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, the municipal corporation of St James Parish has approved a resolution to erect a statue of the iconic artist at the entrance to Montego Bay’s Jimmy Cliff Boulevard. This initiative, which aims to celebrate Cliff’s indelible contribution to Jamaican culture, was presented and unanimously passed by the councillors during a recent meeting.
The resolution will now proceed to the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport for further review. This decision comes on the heels of Government Senator Charles Sinclair’s proposal to convert Cliff’s childhood home in Somerton into a museum and to erect a statue in his honor along the boulevard that bears his name.
During the resolution presentation, Councillor Damion Brown of the Montego Bay West division emphasized the profound impact of Jimmy Cliff’s work on both local and international levels. “Whereas Jimmy Cliff has, in his chosen vocation, achieved local, regional, and international acclaim, and has contributed to the recognition and development of Brand Jamaica, and has done so in a manner which has been inspirational and dignified… be it resolved that this honourable council collaborate with the honourable Minister of Sport, Entertainment, and Gender to commission and erect a statue at a suitable location at the entrance to Jimmy Cliff Boulevard,” Brown articulated.
Beyond the statue, the council is also committed to collaborating with Cliff’s family to establish a museum dedicated to his life and work in St James. “Be it further resolved that this council, in collaboration with the family of Jimmy Cliff, establish a museum in his honour at an appropriate place in the parish of St James,” Brown added, underscoring the council’s dedication to preserving Cliff’s legacy.
This initiative represents a broader effort to acknowledge and immortalize the contributions of Jamaican artists who have played pivotal roles in promoting the nation’s cultural heritage on the world stage. By celebrating the achievements of Jimmy Cliff, Montego Bay continues to fortify its status as a cultural and tourist hub in Jamaica.
Source: Statue proposed for Jimmy Cliff at entrance to Montego Bay boulevard
