CARICOM celebrates posthumous pardon of Marcus Garvey

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) expresses its profound gratitude for the posthumous pardon granted by the Biden administration to Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey, a distinguished civil rights activist, Pan-Africanist leader, and National Hero of Jamaica.
This was the sentiments expressed by Chair of CARICOM and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley.

“This long-awaited exoneration is a testament to the unwavering advocacy of CARICOM leaders, both individually and collectively, along with countless members of the diaspora, for the rectification of the unjust conviction of an ardent advocate for the rights and liberties of individuals of African descent,” Mottley said in a statement on Sunday.
CARICOM, she added, extends its heartfelt congratulations to his son, Julius Garvey, and other members of his family, as well as to the Government and People of Jamaica, “and all who honour the remarkable legacy of this extraordinary son of our region. His life and work continue to inspire and influence both within and beyond the Caribbean.”

Also on Sunday, the Jamaica Observer, reported that Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness has welcomed the decision by the United States (US) to grant posthumous clemency to Jamaica’s first National Hero, Marcus Mosiah Garvey.
Holness thanked outgoing US President Joe Biden, the Jamaican diaspora, and advocates worldwide for their efforts in achieving this outcome. He emphasised the significance of this clemency, which follows Jamaica’s 2018 legislation absolving National Heroes and freedom fighters of wrongful convictions.

“As Prime Minister, I consider this clemency a first step toward the total exoneration and expungement of this historical injustice. In 2018, our Administration passed The National Heroes and Other Freedom Fighters (Absolution from Criminal Liability in Respect of Specified Acts) Act, clearing the records of Jamaica’s National Heroes and freedom fighters who were wrongfully accused and convicted during their struggle for our freedom. This legislative action reflects Jamaica’s unwavering commitment to preserving the honour and legacy of those who fought for justice and equality” stated Holness in the Jamaica Observer article.
He has urged Jamaicans to recommit to Garvey’s vision of unity, progress, and empowerment, declaring January 19, 2025, a proud and historic day for the nation.
On January 19, his last day in office, US President Joe Biden has granted five pardons, including one to Trinidad-born immigrant-rights activist Ravidath “Ravi” Ragbir and another posthumously to Jamaican political activist Marcus Mosiah Garvey, who died in 1940.