Harry Belafonte, the iconic singer and Civil Rights activist passed away at 96 from congestive heart failure at his home in Manhattan.
Belafonte was a New York City native with Jamaican roots and was a prominent figure in the folk music scene of the 1950s. He was the first black person to win an Emmy in 1960. He won multiple awards throughout his life, including a Tony Award, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Kennedy Center honours, and the National Medal of Arts.
Aside from his musical accomplishments, Belafonte was also an activist who worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and was recognized for his “courage and moral integrity.” He received numerous awards and honours for his commitment to social justice, including the Nelson Mandela Courage Award. Belafonte’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement were significant. He believed finding individuals willing to play different roles in making a movement work was essential.
Throughout his life, Belafonte made significant contributions to both the music industry and the fight for social justice, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
