On August 26, 2024, the Diaspora African Forum (DAF) commemorated the late American singer, actor, and civil rights activist Harry Belafonte by inscribing his name onto the iconic Sankofa Wall.
The iconic Sankofa Wall, a symbol of Ghana’s rich history and the Diaspora’s connection to the motherland was further adorned with the name of the legendary American figure.
The mountain ceremony, held at the DAF Embassy in Cantonment, Accra, was attended by dignitaries including the daughter of the beloved icon Gina Belafonte and the convening Founder and Head of Mission of the Diaspora African Forum (DAF), H. E. AMB Dr. Erieka Bennett.
Speaking at the event, Ms Gina Belafonte expressed her gratitude for the honour bestowed upon her father. According to her, to have her father’s name inscribed on the Sankofa Wall is a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Harry Belafonte’s name joins a prestigious list of individuals who have significantly contributed to the African diaspora and the continent.
Known in real life as Harold George Bellanfanti Jr., Harry Belafonte born on March 1, 1927, popularized calypso music with international audiences in the 1950s and 1960s. His career breakthrough album Calypso (1956) was the first million-selling LP by a single artiste.
He was best known for his recordings of “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)“, “Jump in the Line (Shake, Senora)“, “Jamaica Farewell“, and “Mary’s Boy Child“. He recorded and performed in many genres, including blues, folk, gospel, show tunes, and American standards.
He also starred in films such as Carmen Jones (1954), Island in the Sun (1957), Odds Against Tomorrow (1959), Buck and the Preacher (1972), and Uptown Saturday Night (1974).
He made his final feature film appearance in Spike Lee‘sBlacKkKlansman (2018).
Before his demise on April 25, 2023, Harry Belafonte had an estimated net worth of 30 million dollars according to Celebrity Net Worth, who cites his success in the music and movie industry as a major part of his wealth.
His life and work embody this philosophy. His advocacy for civil rights, his commitment to social justice, and his deep connection to African culture have inspired countless people worldwide.
His name on the Sankofa Wall will serve as a constant inspiration to future generations.
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