The Jamaica National Heritage Trust pays tribute to Professor Ralston 'Rex' Nettleford, OM
February 9, 2010
The Jamaica National Heritage Trust pays tribute to a cultural icon, the Hon. Ralston 'Rex' Nettleford, Vice Chancellor Emeritus of the University of the West Indies, who died on February 2, 2010.
Through his work spanning many decades, Professor Nettleford has left his indelible mark on the cultural life of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. He was a brilliant man who demonstrated consummate courage and great conviction in his work. He used his great scholarship to explore issues of Caribbean identity in a post colonial society and his large body of work left behind, will continue to provide a valuable resource for generations to come.
As founder, artistic director and principal choreographer of the internationally acclaimed National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC), he incorporated many of our traditional dances in the company's routines, thus promoting them on the local and international stage.
The Jamaica National Heritage Trust will miss his great mind and willing support. At the 2007 unveiling of the St. James Freedom Monument, erected in honour of those who died in the 1831-32 fight for freedom, Professor Nettleford spoke to Jamaicans about saluting and appreciating those who gave of themselves, 'so we could become conscious of the need to hang together in hope and not to be hanged separately in despair."
Professor Rex Nettleford certainly gave of himself to Jamaica and to the world. He was indeed a living legend and the Jamaica National Heritage Trust is fully dedicated to keeping the name of this iconic Jamaican alive so that generations to come may benefit from his wisdom. May his soul rest in peace.
From the Trustees and Staff
Jamaica National Heritage Trust
