Miriam Makeba, the acclaimed South African singer, was celebrated as a "citizen of the world" during a civic reception at the Ward Theatre. Commissioner Milton Rodriques highlighted her role in transcending geographical and racial boundaries, noting her commitment to promoting understanding among nations. Praised for her artistry and advocacy against injustice, Makeba's life was described as a beacon of hope and a challenge to oppression. Her powerful message continues to inspire unity and global solidarity.

Published Sunday, December 10, 1967

Miriam Makeba gets the Key of the City

-‘Thank you’, she said in tears…

A tearful Maeba, in a voice shaken with emotion, said, “Thank you, thank you very much,” when she received the Keys to the City and the illuminated copy of the Resolution conferring the Freedom of the City on her yesterday morning.

She told a packed Ward Theatre audience of representatives of the State, the Diplomatic Corps, and the general public that her business was singing. She was not used to making speeches but felt “compelled to say something this morning.”

She said, “As one who comes from South Africa, a land which has the misfortune to have a Government such as the one we have, where thousands and millions of my people are still in bondage, you can just imagine how much this means to me to come to a land where people are free and have them honour me this way.”

By the time she ended her short speech, she was in tears, as were Commissioner Milton Rodriques and many others in the audience.

When the international singing star arrived at the Ward Theatre, she was greeted by the Commissioners of the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation, Mr. Eustace Bird and Mr. Rodriques, and the Town Clerk, Mr. Glaister Duncan. She was then presented to senior officers of the KSAC and their wives in the foyer before proceeding to the stage.

In an address of welcome, Mr. Rodriques said Miss Makeba was an exile from her homeland but "she has acquired a larger citizenship which knows neither geographical nor racial frontiers; a citizenship which derives its authority and relevance from service to the higher aspirations of men and women everywhere."

Praising Miss Makeba as one of the world's foremost artists, the Hon. Edward Seaga, Minister of Finance and Planning, welcomed her on behalf of Jamaica. He noted the country’s shared interest in the folk medium, mentioning the Government’s collection of over 1,000 indigenous folk songs.
Mr. Seaga highlighted that Miss Makeba’s artistry demonstrated the great worth and value of her people, standing in bold relief against the oppressive government of South Africa.

In making the presentations to Miss Makeba, Mr. Bird invited her to return to Jamaica whenever she needed rest, promising a warm and sincere welcome.

Seen among those on stage during the civic reception were Sir Neville Ashenheim, Lady Ashenheim, and other notable figures, along with Miss Jamaica and Miss Jamaica Nation.

Miss Makeba, in a white silk suit worn with black accessories and her national hat, the katiba, headed a trio of beauties. The occasion was enlivened by a medley of Christmas carols and Harold Walters' Hoote-nanny (folk festival) performed by the Jamaica Military Band, under Bandmaster C. L. Warren.

For feedback: contact the Editorial Department at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com.