Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange and Dr. Julius Garvey receive Keys to the City of Lauderhill

The Honourable Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, and Dr. Julius Garvey, son of Jamaica’s national hero Marcus Garvey, were honored with the Key to the City of Lauderhill in Florida.

The prestigious recognitions were presented by Mayor Denise Grant in a special ceremony at Lauderhill City Hall on Monday, February 10, 2025.

Mayor Grant highlighted that the presentation was a major feature of the city’s annual Black History Month and Reggae Month celebrations, which pay tribute to leaders and cultural icons of Caribbean and African heritage. The event saw scores of Jamaicans filling the council chamber to witness the momentous occasion. Vice Mayor Sarai “Ray” Martin, City Commissioners Richard Campbell, Melissa P. Dunn, John T. Hodgson, and several other Caribbean leaders in South Florida were present.

Minister Grange, a long-serving government official, has dedicated her career to advancing Jamaica’s cultural and entertainment industries. She played a pivotal role in establishing Jamaica’s annual Reggae Month celebrations and has been instrumental in promoting the island’s music and heritage on the global stage.