By Shereita Grizzle— Harry Belafonte— On Tuesday, June 2, singer, actor, and social activist Harry Belafonte was given an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the prestigious Princeton University at their annual graduation ceremony. Belafonte was among six officials honored at the university’s commencement ceremony. The singer was praised by the university’s orator and trustee, Randall Kennedy, who described Belafonte as a man of integrity. “His integrity and courage inspire admiration and imitation, and his example strengthens our hope that the daybreak of justice, peace, and equality may still come,” he said during his speech. “Raised in poverty in Harlem and Jamaica, he became one of the foremost entertainers of his generation, generously sharing his fame to further the careers of others.” Belafonte was widely recognized as a singer and performer, becoming known worldwide as … Read entire article »

Then Governor General Prof Kenneth Hall (right) presenting Harry Belafonte with a citation as distinguished honoree at the St Ann Homecoming and Heritage Committee annual banquet, held at the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa, Ocho Rios, in 2006. – File By Shereita Grizzle— He already has international acclaim and is celebrated globally as a talented actor, singer, social activist and humanitarian. Come November, Harry Belafonte will add another award to his already impressive collection. Belafonte will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, which is given to an individual in the motion picture industry whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the sector. The announcement follows Tuesday’s voting by the Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences arm of the Oscars, which named Belafonte as one of four persons to be recognised. The … Read entire article »