Celebrating Vaughn “Akae Beka” Benjamin: A Monument and Park in the Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands is set to celebrate the enduring legacy of reggae icon Vaughn “Akae Beka” Benjamin by establishing a monument and dedicating a park in his honor, pending the approval of new legislation. The Senate Committee of Government Operations has voted to allocate $45,000 towards the creation of the “Vaughn Benjamin Monument” and to rename a waterfront park west of Marley Homes in Frederiksted as “The Vaughn ‘Akae Beka’ Memorial Park,” under Bill 35-0030.

The initiative, championed by Senator Novelle Francis, aims to recognize Benjamin not only for his musical achievements but for his profound impact as a thinker, writer, and spiritual guide within the Rastafarian community. “Vaughn Benjamin’s legacy transcends his musical accolades; his life was a testament to intellectual curiosity, spiritual leadership, and artistic brilliance,” Francis remarked.

Niani Benjamin, providing testimony to the committee, echoed the sentiment, highlighting her brother’s influence on education and community involvement. Dale Wathey, a close friend of Benjamin, expressed pride in the recognition, affirming the reggae legend’s worthiness of such an honor.

Phil Codrington, representing the Ethiopian World Federation, and Bevan Smith, a reggae aficionado, also lent their voices in support, underlining Benjamin’s unparalleled contribution to music and his humble nature. Smith described Benjamin as “the most distinguished and universally esteemed musician from the Virgin Islands, whose commitment to reggae was unmatched.”

The bill garnered unanimous support from the committee members, with Senators Alma Francis Heyliger and Javan James Sr. openly praising Benjamin’s extraordinary talent and his influence on their lives. The next step for the bill is a review by the Committee on Rules and Judiciary, moving one step closer to immortalizing the reggae legend in the fabric of Virgin Islands culture.