News Americas, New York, NY, October 3, 2024: Grammy-winning, Jamaican born reggae star, Buju Banton, fresh off his US return, is set to make his long-awaited return to Canada on October 13.

Buju Banton performing onstage during Buju Banton’s Long Walk To Freedom New York on July 14, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Banton recently acquired his Canadian visa, a milestone that allows him to bring his tour to Scotiabank Arena. In a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer, the Till I’m Laid to Rest singer expressed his excitement about returning to Canada.

“This means I have a chance to present the culture and Buju Banton to Canadians once more. Performing for the masses is always a joy, but Canada is a special place for us Maroons,” Banton shared.

The iconic artist, also known as “The Gargamel,” will perform at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto – his first Canadian performance in over 15 years.

The Toronto concert is part of Banton’s North American arena tour and follows his successful U.S. shows, including two sold-out performances in New York. This tour marks his return to the U.S. stage after a 13-year hiatus.

Currently back in Jamaica, Banton is preparing for his highly anticipated Intimate Concert on January 4, 2025, at Plantation Cove in St. Ann. Despite recent scheduling adjustments, Banton’s Overcomer Tour is set to continue with stops in Boston, Philadelphia, Connecticut, Houston, Dallas, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Chicago in 2025.

Fans can look forward to an unforgettable performance as Banton showcases his legendary reggae talent and rich Jamaican heritage to a Canadian audience once again.

News Americas, New York, NY, September 30, 2024: As the world mourns the passing of country music legend Kris Kristofferson, few may realize that the icon paid tribute to the Caribbean in two significant ways during his career.

FLASHBACK – Singer Kris Kristofferson performs onstage during Hardly Strictly Bluegrass at Golden Gate Park on October 1, 2016 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

One tribute can be found in the lyrics of his song “Castaway” from the ironically titled Feeling Mortal album, while the other was a Caribbean-flavored duet with Rita Coolidge, his wife from 1973 to 1980, called “A Song I’d Like to Sing,” featured on their album Full Moon.

Kristofferson, known for his trailblazing music career and memorable role in the 1976 remake of A Star Is Born, passed away on September 28, 2024, at the age of 88. Reports indicate he was surrounded by family, though no cause of death has been confirmed. The celebrated singer-songwriter had announced his retirement in 2021 after gradually stepping away from the spotlight.

One month before his passing, Kristofferson listed his ranch on Northern California’s Mendocino Coast for $17.2 million. Known for writing songs that “come from the soul,” Kristofferson’s work resonated deeply with fans, offering poetic reflections on life, loss, and love.

He also made a name for himself on the silver screen, starring in films such as Blade (1998) as vampire hunter Abraham Whistler, and in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974), where he played the love interest of Ellen Burstyn’s character. In 2016, Kristofferson was diagnosed with Lyme Disease after initially being misdiagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Dementia, causing significant memory loss. His wife, Lisa Meyers, revealed that treatment for Lyme Disease dramatically improved his condition, although he continued to have both good and bad days.

Kristofferson’s connection to the Caribbean can be seen in the lyrics of his song Castaway, where he paints a vivid image of “sailing on the Caribbean sea” and spotting a “little fishing vessel drifting aimlessly,” mirroring the feeling of being lost and adrift.

Lyrics from “Castaway” by Kris Kristofferson: “One day as I was sailing on the Caribbean Sea
I spied a little fishing vessel drifting aimlessly
Her sails were torn and tattered, and her wheel was spinning free
I told myself that little boat sure looks a lot like me…”

His tribute to the Caribbean through both music and lyrics offers a glimpse into his creative soul, as he weaved the region’s imagery into his work.

Kristofferson was also an activist who supported immigrants’ rights and other causes, including workers’ and farmers’ rights. He was inspired by Cesar Chavez’s work defending immigrant workers and became a supporter of the United Farm Workers (UFW). Kristofferson said that farm workers are essential and deserve help because they are paid so little. He believed that as an artist, it was his duty to speak out for the causes he cared about. Kristofferson was also known for his 1989 album Third World Warrior, which focused on Central America and the effects of US policy in the region.

Kris Kristofferson is survived by his wife of 41 years, Lisa Meyers, and his eight children: Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, Johnny, Kelly, and Blake.

News Americas, New York, NY, Tues. Sept. 24, 2024: Haitian-American rapper Kodak Black, known for his ties to former President Donald Trump, has publicly called out the Republican candidate for his recent comments about Haitian immigrants. Trump, during a debate with Democratic contender Kamala Harris, accused Haitian immigrants of “eating pets,” a claim that sparked outrage within the Haitian community.

Haitian American Rapper Kodak Black (C) poses with a fan during a rally for former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in Uniondale, New York, on September 18, 2024. (Photo by David Dee Delgado / AFP) (Photo by DAVID DEE DELGADO/AFP via Getty Images)

Trump, who is currently campaigning for re-election, claimed that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were “eating the dogs” and “eating the cats” of local residents. His potential vice president, JD Vance, echoed similar sentiments, tweeting about reports of pets being “abducted and eaten” by undocumented immigrants.

Kodak Black’s Response

Kodak Black, who has roots in Haiti, quickly took to social media to defend Haitian immigrants and address Trump’s comments. “I ain’t taking no Haitian slander,” the rapper said, expressing frustration at the accusations.

“If I wanted to eat a cat, that’s what I’m a eat,” he quipped, adding, “I was Haitian before it was cool to be Haitian.”

Black emphasized his love for all cultures and stressed that he’s not prejudiced. “I love Israel, I love all countries. I love everybody – because I’m a warrior of Christ.”

He also questioned the claims, asking incredulously, “When y’all saw a n**** eat a cat? Even if you saw someone eat a motherf***ing cat – so what?”

Standing Up for Haitians

Kodak Black urged Haitians not to support any political figure who disrespects them, highlighting the progress the Haitian community has made. “We ain’t taking no Haitian slander,” he said, comparing Trump’s comments to calling all white people with blue eyes “the Devil” – a statement he described as prejudiced.

Kodak Black’s Complex Relationship with Trump

Despite his criticism, Kodak Black still made headlines by attending a Trump rally in Uniondale, New York, on September 18, 2024. He also featured Trump on his and Fivio Foreign’s recent track, ‘ONBOA47RD.’

Born Dieuson Octave to Haitian immigrant Marcelene Octave, Kodak Black legally changed his name to Bill Kahan Kapri. Raised in Pompano Beach, Florida, in the Golden Acres housing project, the rapper has become a prominent figure with ties to his Haitian heritage and an evolving relationship with Trump.

News Americas, New York, NY, September 16, 2024: Haitian-born celebrities have joined in denouncing Donald Trump and his MAGA Republicans over racist and false claims that Haitians in Springfield, Ohio, are “eating pets,” including cats and dogs. These baseless accusations have sparked outrage among Haitian-American public figures, who are using their platforms to combat this dangerous rhetoric.

Haitian born actress Garcelle Beauvais is among those slamming Donald Trump on his racist, fake claims about Haitians in Springfield, Ohio. (Photo by Kayla Oaddams/Getty Images)

Haitian-born rapper and musician Wyclef Jean took to social media to express his thoughts on Trump’s claims, urging his fans to ignore the lies. “I will be forever grateful for my family’s life, for having a fair chance to live what is called the ‘American Dream,’” said Jean. Having immigrated to New York City at age 9, Jean emphasized the value of the immigrant community in America. “Haitian-Americans are good neighbors and good people,” he added.

Haitian musician and philanthropist Wyclef Jean has also slammed the racist claims. (Photo by PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP via Getty Images)

“On behalf of Haitian Americans, I ask that we stop these racist messages and accusations. Put our hands out in peace and say thanks for being my neighbor,” Jean continued. “We need to respect one another and vote based on policies and facts, not crazy talk. And we need to shake hands with one another and be thankful we are part of an America for all.” Jean, a member of the Fugees, has long been vocal against Trump’s racist rhetoric, even releasing a 2015 freestyle criticizing Trump’s comments about Mexicans. He also condemned Trump’s plan to deport nearly 60,000 Haitians who received temporary protected status after Haiti’s 2010 earthquake.

Haitian-born actress Garcelle Beauvais, best known for her role on Bravo’s Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, also spoke out against the claims. In a video posted to her social media, Beauvais condemned the false narratives targeting her community, saying, “This madness has got to stop.”

“Staying silent in the face of racism and hate is something that I refuse to do,” Beauvais said. “This past week, the lies that have been spewed about the Haitian community — about my community — have been disgusting, deeply hurtful, and dangerous.” Beauvais, who moved to the U.S. from Saint-Marc, Haiti, at age 7, emphasized that this issue transcends politics, stating, “We must condemn this kind of hatred, this kind of racism, for anyone.”

The false claims about Haitian immigrants were amplified by Trump and his 2024 running mate, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance. During the September 10 debate with Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump falsely claimed that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were eating pets. Despite the moderators and local officials debunking these statements, Vance continued to spread the conspiracy theory, further stoking fear in the community.

Beauvais, who has faced personal attacks on the Real Housewives franchise, spoke out as these conspiracy theories led to bomb threats and a growing sense of fear among immigrants in Springfield. “I have always been a proud Haitian immigrant. Coming to America, working hard, that’s what we do,” she said. “And I will not sit by and let people talk about my community in any way they want for their own gain.”

Melissa Chataigne, a first-generation Haitian-American stylist, also condemned Trump’s rhetoric, calling his comments “ignorant” and harmful. “It’s so ignorant, and I don’t understand why Haiti, which has been through so much, always seems to be this punching bag for American politics,” Chataigne told PEOPLE. “Enough is enough.”

The Haitian immigrant community in Springfield, Ohio, has been targeted by these conspiracy theories, leading to heightened tension. Bomb threats have been reported, schools are receiving threats, and businesses are closing early due to fears for safety. Springfield, a predominantly white city, has seen an influx of Haitian immigrants in recent years, drawn by the area’s economic revival.

These Haitian-American celebrities continue to stand against the harmful rhetoric, using their platforms to promote truth, unity, and respect.

News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. September 13, 2024: Trinidadian musical collective Critical Mas, made up of formerly incarcerated artists, is set to release its debut single “Born a Criminal” on September 20, 2024.

The song, written by group member Friday while incarcerated in Trinidad’s youth prison, is a powerful collaboration with renowned jazz musician Etienne Charles. It blends dancehall, Afrobeats, and an ominous jazz riff, with lyrics that highlight how poverty and inequality can turn citizens into criminals.

Critical Mas: Friday, Nicholas Khan, Cherese Washington, Marvin Alexander, Romel Lezama. (PHOTO: COLIN WILLIAMS)

A listening event for “Born a Criminal” took place on September 12th at Doux Nightclub in New York City, ahead of another event on September 21 at The Burg in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The track is produced by Rheon Elbourne, the creator of the “Trinibad” genre, and was originally written in 2010 when Friday won a People’s Choice Award for the song while incarcerated.

Critical Mas is the first group of formerly incarcerated individuals in Trinidad and Tobago to use their artistic platform to push for justice reform in a country with one of the highest homicide rates globally. Trinidad faces rampant gun violence and drug trafficking, and a deeply flawed justice system, where the average wait for trial is six years, leaving thousands imprisoned without due process.

Group member Nicholas Khan, who spent 11 years in prison waiting for trial, found solace in poetry and now brings his spoken-word talent to Critical Mas. Romel Lezama, another member, spent a decade in Trinidad’s Youth Training and Rehabilitation Centre (YTRC) and became the first incarcerated individual to qualify for a National Calypso Monarch semi-final. Lezama’s song “Prison to Palace” will be the group’s next release.

Critical Mas is supported by the Incarceration Nations Network, a global prison reform organization led by Dr. Baz Dreisinger, who co-founded the group with Etienne Charles. The project began in 2024 with arts workshops for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals in Trinidad, which grew into the formation of Critical Mas. The name reflects the group’s mission to reach a critical mass of voices advocating for change, while paying homage to Trinidad’s cultural symbol of Carnival, or mas.

The group debuted at Charles’ Road March show at Queen’s Hall Performing Arts Center in February 2024, followed by another performance in Port of Spain in April. They are now preparing for a Carnival season tour that will bring them to schools, concerts, and community spaces across Trinidad, using art to promote discussions on justice reform, particularly with youth.

By combining art and personal experience, Critical Mas is part of a growing movement, similar to those in the U.S., that seeks to use culture as a catalyst for justice reform. This approach has proven effective in shifting public opinion on issues like mass incarceration in the U.S. and is now being implemented in Trinidad and Tobago.