JAMAICA-COMMEMORATION-Al Sharpton to address Jamaican civil rights commemoration.

KINGSTON -- American civil rights activist, Reverend Al Sharpton, is slated to be the guest speaker the 158th anniversary commemoration of the Morant Bay Rebellion.

Councillor Hubert Williams, Mayor of Morant Bay, made the disclosure during a press conference to launch the activities for this year's remembrance of the historic events of 1865.

'We are going to be blessed by the presence of one of the world's most renowned civil rights leaders, and I must say this, Rev Al was so happy to visit the people of St Thomas, the daughters and sons of Paul Bogle, that he gave us a gift by paying his air fare for himself and his entire entourage,' Councillor Williams disclosed.

Paul Bogle was a preacher in the 1860s who led a protest in Morant Bay against injustice and widespread poverty and was later arrested and charged with inciting to riot.

During the protest, several people were killed and protesters burned the courthouse and nearby buildings.

Bogle is officially recognised as one of Jamaica's national heroes.

The Memorial Service of this rebellion will take place on October 24 at the Paul Bogle Square in Morant Bay, beginning at 6:00pm and will feature a candlelight vigil.

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