Mia Mottley to address Michael Manley centenary lecture
Published:Friday | November 29, 2024 | 12:10 AMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Michael Manley, the former Jamaican prime minister who championed social justice, education, and equality, would have celebrated his 100th birthday on December 10, 2024. As part of his centenary celebrations, Mia Mottley, the trailblazing first female prime minister of Barbados, will deliver a landmark lecture in his honour at the Little Theatre in Kingston.
Often hailed as the ‘female Michael Manley’, Mottley’s admiration for the late Jamaican leader began at age 10, when she first studied his writings.
Today she stands as a fearless advocate on the global stage, tackling critical issues such as climate change and championing the voices of the vulnerable. Her participation in this event underscores Manley’s enduring legacy and his influence on a new generation of visionary leaders.
Michael Manley Foundation Chair, Senator Donna Scott-Mottley, who is also Mottley’s sister-in-law, shared with The Gleaner yesterday morning that the Barbadian leader has closely mirrored Manley’s policies, earning overwhelming support with two consecutive election victories.
“Like Michael Manley, her advocacy has been groundbreaking, awakening global consciousness about its significance,” Scott-Mottley remarked.
She added, “We thought it was a fitting tribute to have someone like her, who embodies his spirit, deliver the lecture on the 100th anniversary of his birth.”
Mottley, who recently met with the Pope at the Vatican in Rome, is one of the most sought-after speakers globally. Despite her demanding schedule, Scott-Mottley expressed that the Barbadian prime minister’s commitment to delivering the centenary lecture is a profound honour and highlights the impact of Manley’s legacy on her career.
Other speakers scheduled to address the oversubscribed audience include Opposition Leader Mark Golding, former Prime Minister PJ Patterson - who will officially introduce Mottley - and Manley’s widow, Glynne.
The Barbadian prime minister’s overarching theme for the lecture will centre on love and unity.
“That’s quintessentially Mia,” noted Scott-Mottley.
The lecture is one of several initiatives to celebrate the life and legacy of Manley, who served as Jamaica’s prime minister from 1972 to 1980 and again from 1989 to 1992. Known for championing a democratic socialist programme, Manley was often described as a populist and remains one of Jamaica’s most beloved and impactful leaders.
As part of the centenary celebrations, the Michael Manley Collection was recently relocated to The University of the West Indies, Mona, ensuring that future generations will have access to his writings, policies, and vision.