The City of Lauderdale Lakes marked Reggae Month by officially proclaiming Feb. 10, 2026, as “Buju Banton Day,” honoring the Grammy Award-winning reggae artist and cultural ambassador for his decades-long contribution to music and culture.
The special presentation, sponsored by Commissioner Karlene Maxwell-Williams, took place Tuesday as part of the city’s Reggae Month observances. Each February, Reggae Month celebrates the global influence of the Jamaican-born genre, recognized for its messages of peace, unity, resilience and social justice. Reggae’s international significance has also been acknowledged by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which inscribed it on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
During the ceremony, the City Commission presented an official proclamation to Buju Banton, born Mark Anthony Myrie, recognizing his more than 30-year contribution to reggae and dancehall worldwide. Broward County Commissioner Hazelle P. Rogers and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick also honored the artist with proclamations acknowledging his cultural and community impact.
“Reggae music is more than entertainment — it is a voice for the people and a reflection of our heritage and resilience,” said Commissioner Karlene Maxwell-Williams. “Buju Banton’s music has inspired generations around the world, and it is an honor for the City of Lauderdale Lakes to recognize his cultural impact and celebrate his legacy during Reggae Month.”
Rising from humble beginnings in Kingston, Jamaica, Banton has built an international career with songs including “Champion,” “Wanna Be Loved,” “Untold Stories,” “Destiny,” “Hills and Valleys,” and “Not an Easy Road.” Across 11 studio albums and collaborations with artists such as Beres Hammond, Stephen Marley, Gramps Morgan, Pharrell Williams and the late Heavy D, he has used his platform to promote themes of love, identity, spirituality, education and social awareness.
Through tracks such as “Let My People Go,” “Trial by Fire,” and “We Find A Way,” Banton has also advocated for justice, empathy, faith and freedom, reinforcing reggae’s role as both a cultural treasure and a vehicle for positive change.
City officials invited residents to join Mayor Veronica Edwards Phillips, Vice Mayor Sharon Thomas and Commissioners Tycie Causwell, Easton K. Harrison and Karlene Maxwell-Williams in celebrating Reggae Month and recognizing Banton’s lasting influence on music and culture.
