The United Nations included Reggae on its list of international cultural treasures that should be promoted and protected from extinction. It was added to the UN’s collection of cultural treasures due to its “intangible cultural heritage.”
This genre of music was developed in the early 60s from the streets of Jamaica and inspired by artists like Toots and the Maytals, Peter Tosh and Bob Marley.
Announcing the decision, a spokesman of Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) said the music’s “contribution to the international discourse on issues of injustice, resistance, love and humanity underscores the dynamics of the element as being at once cerebral, socio-political, sensual and spiritual.”
He added: “The basic social functions of the music – as a vehicle for social commentary, a cathartic practice, and a means of praising God – have not changed, and the music continues to act as a voice for all.”
Jamaica had applied for reggae’s inclusion on the list this year at a meeting of the UN agency on the island of Mauritius. The aim of this is to ensure respect for communities, groups and individuals involved in the listed activity, to raise awareness and encourage appreciation of those activities nationally and internationally.
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