In the aftermath of several spirited debates on social media concerning the qualifications of recipients at Monday’s National Honours and Awards Ceremony, Professor Donna Hope, in an article published in the Jamaica STAR, advocates for channelling this enthusiasm towards the nomination process itself.
The focal point of this discourse revolves around the question of whether dancehall artiste Wayne Marshall deserved the Order of Distinction (OD) awarded to him for his significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Professor Hope, however, challenges those engaged in this conversation to not just critique but also to participate in the selection process. She urges them to consider nominating individuals they believe merit such recognition.
Professor Hope acknowledges her uncertainty regarding the precise criteria governing the selection process. Yet, she expresses her conviction that Wayne Marshall’s body of work must have met the requisites for such an accolade. Notably, she underscores the significance of spotlighting artists from the late 1990s and early to mid-2000s, a generation often overshadowed by earlier luminaries such as Shabba Ranks and Daddy U-Roy.
When questioned about potential nominees, Professor Hope suggests that long-standing rivals Bounty Killer and Beenie Man could be deserving candidates. She emphasizes their contributions to the elevation of dancehall and their ongoing impact within the genre. International superstar Shaggy also shares these sentiments regarding Bounty Killer, highlighting the mentorship and platform he has provided to numerous artists in the industry.
Furthermore, Beenie Man, during an interaction with Entertainment Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, humorously inquired about when he might receive a similar honour. In light of these discussions, Professor Hope encourages the public to take an active role in shaping the future of the National Honours and Awards by suggesting potential nominees. This proactive approach requires individuals to deliberate on their preferences, take up their pens, and participate in the process. Ultimately, the focus should shift from simply critiquing the choices made to actively engaging in the nomination process.
