Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is telling his city to get up, stand up and celebrate one of the most iconic musicians of all time by officially proclaiming Feb. 6 'Bob Marley Day.' It also happens to be the day the Jamaican legend was born.
According to the Globe and Mail, the controversial mayor—who has admitted to drug and drinking problems—issued the following text lauding the long-departed musician:
Whereas each year on February 6, we honour the legacy of Robert (Bob) Nesta Marley, an influential musician, advocate for human rights and international ambassador of peace.
His early career began with friends, the legendary Wailers, “Bob Marley and the Wailers.” His music captivated people of all cultures, broke music barriers and helped introduce reggae music to the world.
Bob Marley became one of the greatest ambassadors of peace the world has seen. He used music to tear down the walls of apartheid and promoted African unity, culture and world peace both at home and internationally, with songs like One Love and Africa Unite. Today, his music continues to be loved by many and is instantly recognized around the world.
Now therefore, I, Mayor Rob Ford, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim February 6, 2014 as “Bob Marley Day” in the City of Toronto.
Ford is clearly a huge fan of the reggae icon. Last year he was caught on camera during a City Council meeting dancing and singing along loudly with other members to the hit 'One Love,' which jazz group Douglas and the All-Stars were performing.
Read more at Globe and Mail.