New York City Mayor Eric Adams has recently honored the late Caribbean icon, Harry Belafonte, with a posthumous Key to the City of New York. <\/p>\n
This gesture acknowledges Belafontes wide-ranging contributions to the worlds of music, film, theater, and television. <\/p>\n
In addition to his celebrated entertainment career, Belafonte was an influential civil rights leader. <\/p>\n
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He prominently participated in key events, notably the March on Washington around 60 years ago. <\/p>\n
Mayor Adams extolled Belafontes unique ability to intertwine his art with activism, praising him for navigating racial barriers and surpassing the limits of his artistic mediums. <\/p>\n
When daylight comes, and we can all go home, its because Harry led the way in letting the light shine through. I am honored to present Harry Belafonte, through his family, with a Key to the City of New York, Mayor Adams said. <\/p>\n
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Born to West Indian immigrants in Harlem, New York, Belafontes artistic journey began at the American Negro Theatre. <\/p>\n
His exceptional talent and dedication led him to achieve the coveted EGOT recognition, earning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards throughout his illustrious career. <\/p>\n
Dating back to 1702, the Key to the City of New York has a rich history. <\/p>\n
Mayor Phillip French first presented it as the Freedom of the City to Viscount Edward Cornbury, who was overseeing both New York and New Jersey. <\/p>\n
By the mid-19th century, the symbolic gesture had evolved, representing the citys invitation to guests to feel welcome and move freely. <\/p>\n
Today, Mayor Adams emphasized that the key stands as a beloved symbol of civic recognition and gratitude, bestowed upon those whose service to the public achieves the highest standards. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Read more articles about the diaspora from Caribbean National Weekly <\/p>\n
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New York honors Caribbean icon: Harry Belafonte receives key to the city posthumously - caribbeannationalweekly.com<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" New York City Mayor Eric Adams has recently honored the late Caribbean icon, Harry Belafonte, with a posthumous Key to the City of New York. This gesture acknowledges Belafontes wide-ranging contributions to the worlds of music, film, theater, and television Continue reading