BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) expressed its profound gratitude on Sunday (Jan. 19) for the posthumous pardon granted by the Biden administration to Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey.
In an unexpected move on Saturday, President Biden announced the pardoning of five individuals, with Marcus Garvey’s name included on the list. Garvey, a distinguished civil rights activist, Pan-Africanist leader, and National Hero of Jamaica, had been arrested and deported from the United States after being indicted for mail fraud.
In a media statement, CARICOM Chair Mia Mottley said, “This long-awaited exoneration is 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.”
Garvey’s impact has been felt worldwide, particularly in the United States, where his legacy endures.
“CARICOM 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 honor the remarkable legacy of this extraordinary son of our region," Mottley added. "His life and work continue to inspire and influence both within and beyond the Caribbean."
