The Institute of Caribbean Studies at the University of the West Indies, Mona will host a Symposium on the Social Impact of Jamaican Popular Music on Saturday, February 26 at 10 am in the Social Sciences Lecture Theatre (SSLT), UWI, Mona. The presenters at the Symposium will include academics from UWI  Dr. Donna Hope Marquis, Senior Lecturer, Institute of Caribbean Studies and Dr. Fredrick Hickling, Professor of Psychiatry. Other panelists are Dr. Marcia Forbes, Director Phase 3 and Mr. Cordel Green, Executive Director of the Broadcasting Commission. Talk-show host and folk philosopher, Robin “Bongo Jerry” Small, and entertainment consultant Clyde McKenzie will lead a discussion on the presentations

The Symposium will explore several topical issues in the Jamaican music landscape such as the impact of music on adolescent sexuality, music and violence and the implications of dancehall lyrics on Caribbean youth. It is designed to encourage dialogue among researchers, music stakeholders and the public on critical issues in the Jamaican popular music. This event marks the culmination of Reggae month activities staged by the Institute of Caribbean Studies at UWI, Mona.  On February 11 the Institute also hosted the annual Bob Marley Lecture and Dr. Donna Hope Marquis launched her book, Man Vibes: Masculinities in the Jamaican Dancehall on February 17.

All are invited to attend. Admission is free.