Vice President Kamala Harris Statement on the Passing of Harry Belafonte
Statement from Vice President Kamala Harris, Harry Belafonte was a significant figure in the United States, using his voice and resources to promote civil and human rights. He inspired many young leaders to work towards change and collaborated with organizations like the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Belafonte’s talent on stage and screen also garnered global attention. Harris considers Belafonte a true patriot who worked towards America’s highest ideals of equity, justice, and dignity. She personally knew him as a friend and valued his wisdom and advice. Harris and her partner Doug offer their condolences and prayers to Belafonte’s family and loved ones upon his passing.
Harry Belafonte was one of our nation’s most powerful voices for change. America has lost a giant. Doug and I are praying for his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/A5QSEheKkk
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) April 25, 2023
Harry Belafonte
Born: 1 March 1927, Harlem, New York, United States
Died: 25 April 2023, Manhattan, New York, United States
Harry Belafonte was a remarkable American singer, actor, and civil rights activist. He was born on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York City, to Jamaican parents. Belafonte is best known for popularizing Caribbean music in the United States and his unique sound that blended traditional Caribbean rhythms with contemporary American music. His iconic songs such as “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” and “Jump in the Line” have made him a celebrated musician across the world.
Belafonte’s contributions to the civil rights movement were equally significant. He used his fame and resources to help fundraise for the movement and participated in various protests and demonstrations against segregation and racial discrimination. Belafonte was a close friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and worked closely with him to bring attention to issues such as voting rights and economic inequality. He also supported organizations such as the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
Despite his significant contributions to music and the civil rights movement, Belafonte faced significant challenges during his career. He was investigated by the FBI for his activism and was also blacklisted in Hollywood during the McCarthy era. Despite this, Belafonte continued to use his platform to advocate for social justice, equity, and inclusion.
Belafonte’s achievements have earned him numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, the National Medal of Arts, and the Kennedy Center Honors. He was also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and received the UNICEF’s Audrey Hepburn Humanitarian Award. Belafonte was a trailblazer in his time and continued to inspire younger generations through his work.
Harry Belafonte passed away on April 25, 2023, at the age of 96. His legacy will continue to inspire people worldwide for generations to come. Belafonte’s music and activism exemplify his commitment to making the world a better place and fighting for equity and justice for all. His contributions to music and the civil rights movement have left an indelible mark on history, and he will be remembered as a legend and a humanitarian who used his platform for good.
Credit :https://www.whitehouse.gov/ and other online source