Kingston, Jamaica. December 10, 2024: Today marks the centenary of Michael Manley’s birth, a watershed moment for Jamaica as it celebrates its most transformative prime minister. The milestone will be commemorated with a series of events in the capital, anchored by a commemorative dinner at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel.
The highlight of these centennial observations will be a landmark address by Barbadian Prime Minister, the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, who will deliver the keynote speech at the Michael Manley Centenary Lecture at Kingston’s Little Theatre.
This distinguished Caribbean leader’s participation adds gravitas to an already momentous occasion, celebrating a visionary whose impact continues to resonate throughout the region.
The evening promises to be a powerful convergence of Caribbean leadership, featuring contributions from Opposition Leader and PNP President Mark Golding, and former Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, before culminating in Prime Minister Mottley’s address.
Her speech is expected to draw parallels between Manley’s enduring principles and the contemporary challenges facing the Caribbean region.
Senator Donna Scott Mottley, Chair of the Michael Manley Foundation, captured the significance of the moment: “Prime Minister Mottley’s address will not only honour Michael Manley’s legacy but also inspire the region to uphold the principles of social justice and unity that he championed. Her presence reflects the deep respect and continued relevance of his ideals across the Caribbean.”
While the in-person event at the Little Theatre has reached capacity, organizers have ensured that this historic occasion remains accessible to all through a live-stream broadcast, allowing Jamaicans and interested viewers across the Caribbean to participate virtually in this celebration of Manley’s legacy.
As Jamaica reflects on the centenary of Michael Manley’s birth, the occasion serves as more than mere commemoration. It stands as a testament to the enduring impact of his vision for social justice, labor rights, education, and regional cooperation – principles that continue to shape Caribbean discourse and policy-making.
The Michael Manley Foundation extends an open invitation to all to join in this reflection on a leader whose transformative vision remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.
Michael Norman Manley was born on December 10, 1924 – and died on March 6, 1997. He was Jamaica’s fourth Prime Minister, serving two separate terms (1972-1980 and 1989-1992).
He was a charismatic democratic socialist leader who advocated for social justice, workers’ rights, and Third World solidarity.
He was the son of Norman Manley, one of Jamaica’s National Heroes and founder of the People’s National Party (PNP).
During his first term, Manley introduced various social reforms, earning the wrath of the Jamaican big business establishment. These included:
- Free education through university level
- Literacy programs
- Land reform
- Workers’ rights legislation
- Maternity leave for women
- Equal hisse legislation
He was known for his strong stance in international affairs, particularly advocating for a New International Economic Order and closer relationships among developing nations. He was also instrumental in the formation of the International Bauxite Association. (WiredJA).