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Salute 25 Years – Rebel Salute Music Festival Bringing Reggae Lovers Together for 25 Years

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BY: ALYSSA MAHADEO

Smooth rhythms, melodic beats, honest lyrics, slow and steady Irie vibes. Everything you could imagine at a reggae festival and more encompassed at one of the Caribbean’s biggest celebrations in the preservation of reggae music.

This January, Rebel Salute celebrated 25 exciting years of wholesome entertainment and is commended as one of the greatest roots reggae shows on this planet. It’s one thing for a person who is a lover of reggae music to attend a reggae festival, and it’s another thing for a person who has limited knowledge of reggae music, it’s vast history and culture to go experience something so enlightening.

The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited by the Jamaica Tourist Board to head down to Jamaica for the weekend to cover this must-see festival, listed in the Billboard Magazine’s top four festivals in the Caribbean. Rebel Salute began as a concert to celebrate the birthday of reggae icon Tony Rebel but has since evolved into a unique Jamaican entertainment brand that has managed to capture the hearts of thousands of reggae lovers at home and around the world.

The Reggae music genre is unique to Jamaica, but it’s roots lie in New Orleans R&B. Reggae’s direct forefather is ska, an uptempo, rhythmic variation based on the New Orleans R&B.

“Jamaican musicians heard broadcasts from the US on their transistor radios. Relying on skittering guitar and syncopated rhythms, ska was their interpretation of R&B and it was quite popular in the early ’60s,” as cited from allmusic.com.

However, during one very hot summer, the weather was too hot to either play or dance ska, so the beat was slowed down and reggae was born. Since then, reggae has proven to be as versatile as the blues, lending itself to a number of interpretations, from the melodic rock steady of Alton Ellis and the rock and folk-influenced songwriting of Bob Marley to the trippy, near-psychedelic soundscapes of dub artists like Lee “Scratch” Perry. It has crossed into the mainstream through the bright, bouncy “Reggae Sunsplash” festivals and pop-oriented bands like UB40, but more adventurous reggae artists, such as Marley and Perry, have influenced countless reggae, folk, rock and dance artists. Their contributions resonate throughout popular music.

Lovers of reggae music travel from near and far to attend Rebel Salute, it’s authentic tribute to good clean and honest music, a testament to the hearts of the people who create it. The lyrics of each song hold a deeper meaning, calling out injustice, discouraging hate, and exploring solutions to issues affecting people and the masses.

Right in line with the preservation of reggae is the Rastafari social movement fighting resistance and calling for social change. A very powerful means of spreading these messages is through reggae music. For a new movement to effectively change the system that is in place, it must realize several goals. The movement must have a clear ideology that is supported by the general population. The message of Rastafarianism has been spread worldwide by reggae artists like Bob Marley, Burning Spear, Peter Tosh, and many others.

January 12th and 13th from dusk until dawn, a range of locally and internationally acclaimed artists provided an exciting lineup of musical entertainment at Grizzly’s Plantation Cove in St. Ann, a vast venue overlooking the Caribbean Sea. “Saluters” or festival patrons were treated to performance after performance and the many delights of the arts village and ital food vendors. 

Back for another year was the Herb Curb implemented in 2016 featuring an array of exhibits, herb practitioners, educators, speakers and medical professionals who explore everything from the sacramental to the medicinal marvels of marijuana – as well as a private smoking lounge.

The curb’s enclosed area displays educational, spiritual, medicinal and recreational products and content which affords patrons the opportunity to unlock the world of marijuana, its uses, applications and numerous byproducts on the cutting edge of organic medicinal exploration are on full display for hands-on experience and sampling.

Rebel Salute served a strictly vegetarian menu of ital food selections complimented by a diet of cultural roots and other provisions as modelled by reggae’s finest. In tandem with this, was the concept of a drug-free, violence-free and non-alcoholic event which serves to further the movement and promote peace.

A little rain and mud were not enough to dampen the spirits of those in attendance, who came to enjoy the full Rebel Salute experience from the music, to the food, lifestyle and culture. Island life is infamous for it’s relaxing and easy-going nature, and on an island like Jamaica rain or shine everything is ‘ALL RIGHT.’

Day one greeted the crowd with a warm-up and included a jam-packed list of headliners with so many names to mention, featuring locally and internationally renowned artists like Chevaughn, Anthony B, Big Youth, Bugle, Charly Black, DaVille, King Sounds, Mighty Mystic Lutan Fyah, Wickerman, Bushman, Jesse Royal, Agent Sasco, Prohgres, Notis Heavyweight Rockaz, Anthony Cruz, Zamunda, and of course the man himself Tony Rebel. Special surprise appearances from various artists also included reggae queen Marcia Griffiths and lovers rock aficionado, Beres Hammond.

Day two continued to deliver with even more explosive performances from the likes of Abatau, Admiral Tibet, Barrington Levy, Bernard Collins of the Abyssinians, Ding Dong, Duane Stephenson, Fantan Mojah, Freddie McGregor, Garnet Silk Jr., Jahmiel, Kenyatta Hill, Leroy Gibbons, Leroy Sibbles, Little Hero, Louie Culture, Luciano, Meleku, Nitty Kutchie, Nkulee Dube, Pablo Moses, Pinchers, Ras Shiloh, Romain Virgo, Rondell Positive,Vanzo finally welcoming the rising sun with appearances by Gyptian, I-Octane, I-Wayne, Capleton, Elephant Man and Sanchez.

Gracing the stage right alongside their brethren were sistren JC Lodge, Glacia Robinson, Althea & Donna, Davianah, Ikaya, Nkulee Dube, and Queen Ifrica, powerful queens, spreading good clean music.

As the night went on more and more people filled the grounds to explore and enjoy the festival. The Prime Minister Andrew Holness made a short guest appearance and the event passed without conflict.

It’s hard to say that even after the sun was high in the sky the next morning that people were even remotely ready to go home. Every artist who took to the stage put on an unforgettable performance, commanding the crowd and leaving them wanting more. With the scent of herb high in the air, horns blared and praises of Jah were heard throughout the venue. It was a reggae music lovers dream, and for someone there for the first time definitely, something words can’t do justice, it’s better off experienced live in person.

The festivals impressive list of partners is what continues to contribute to its success. The unwavering support of the Jamaica Tourist Board, Ministry of Culture Gender Entertainment & Sports, Jamaica Public Service Company Limited (JPS), Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association (JHTA), Television Jamaica (TVJ) and many more local hotels and resorts as well as media outlets have been critical to the success of the festival’s world-class production. With their help, Rebel Salute has been able to secure a steady population – tourists being 38% (the largest for any festival in Jamaica) and locals being 62%.

The islands lifestyle and culture encourage togetherness, comradery, and unity. Their warm hospitality and abundant culture allows for everyone to feel welcome, and their ability to throw a reggae festival cannot be underestimated. Rebel Salute is an annual event where everyone is welcome. Consider heading down to Jamaica just once to experience the music first hand.

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Bill C-63 is the conclusive end to Canadians Freedom of Speech

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

One “wrong” post on the internet, and you’re silenced… forever…

I have to admit; I am genuinely frightened by the federal government’s latest bill and its impact on OUR Freedom of Speech and Expression. This grim reality is something straight out of a science fiction movie, or at the very least, an online censorship law directly imported from an authoritarian regime like: China, Iran, or North Korea. “That can’t be happening here,” you say. Oh yes, it is.

Justin Trudeau’s (In) Justice Minister Arif Virani introduced Canada, and the world, to Bill C-63, the “Online Harms Act.” He is calling for a piece of legislation aiming to reduce online “hate” and “hate speech.” The definitions of “hate” and “hateful speech” are so vague that they could include almost anything: critical opinions, political commentary, even memes.

I get it. This might be in reaction to the fact that he has been at the receiving end of what could be called “hate speech.” An Angus Reid poll showed that the three most used words to describe Trudeau were: “arrogant,” “dishonest,” and “corrupt” with the fourth word being “charismatic,” which still doesn’t actually speak to a positive quality of his character.

Is this why there will be an update to section 318 and 319 of the CCC, that will introduce hate, or hateful speech as anything that “incites violent extremism or terrorism,” “incites violence,” and “foments hatred” (specifically)?

The implications are far-reaching and frightening since this bill will not just force social media and big tech giants to merely terminate your social media account. It’s a social media jail incarnate, where you will pay the physical price for sharing the “wrong” opinions by going to actual jail.

If the Trudeau Liberal government gets away with it, this will be the new normal in Canada. Let’s take a quick look at the proposed amendments:

  1. Update the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC)’s definition of “hate speech” and “hatred” to include ambiguous terms like “incites violent extremism or terrorism,” “incites violence,” and “foments hatred” (specifically section 318 and 319 of the CCC).
  2. Expand the federal bureaucracy by instituting a “Digital Safety Commission” (aka Canada’s very own Ministry of Truth) and a “Digital Safety Ombudsperson” to receive complaints about “hate speech” and enforce speech “standards” on internet platforms (Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, Instagram, Twitch, Rumble, etc.).
  3. Grant even more power to the Canadian Human Rights Commission, allowing them to force content removal and impose fines up to $70,000, with a maximum of $20,000 to the offended anonymous complainants. The same commission that labeled Christmas as “racist” last December.
  4. Raise the maximum punishments for “hate propaganda” to life imprisonment.
  5. Enact “protective measures” enabling a judge to act on anonymous reports of hate crimes by requiring accused individuals to wear an electronic monitoring device, undergo house arrest, be banned from public spaces, or have a restraining order against them.

It’s unclear how these claims of “hate crimes” will be verified, opening the floodgates for anonymous complaints from anyone, anywhere in the world.

If this bill passes, we could see media outlets like the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper lose our right to provide balanced, and transparent information, especially when it comes to what is going on in our world, the information that is quietly circulated behind your backs.

The passage of Bill C-63 could bring the Trudeau Liberals’ vision of turning Canada into a so-called “basic dictatorship,” one step closer to becoming an actual-livable reality, but in this dark time, there is still a glimmer of hope.

We’ve seen the massive public backlash against The Liberal government’s failed attempts to pass similar censorship bills over the last several years. This is why I am asking you to act now. If you don’t, you will lose the ability to openly discuss and debate important issues, first online and then in person.

Only with your help can we successfully defend all Canadians from authoritarianism and preserve OUR fundamental human right to Free Speech and Expression!

We want to help you voice your thoughts, and below I am going to show you how you can do this:

  • Find your MP’s official email address on the official parliamentary website, or their personal website.
  • Clearly state your concerns in a well-written and respectful email. Clearly articulate your concerns and provide your contact details for a follow-up. Include your name, address, and contact information for a more personalized response.
  • Engage with your MP on social media platforms like Twitter or Facebook. Publicly share your concerns and ask for their response or action.
  • Gather with members of the community who have similar concerns and schedule an appointment to meet with your MP at their constituency office. Face-to-face meetings can have a more significant impact as you can use the opportunity to voice your concerns in a public forum.

Remember to be respectful and clearly articulate your concerns when reaching out to your MP. We have to move past emotion and take ACTION. Providing factual information and potential solutions will strengthen your case. Additionally, encouraging others in your community to voice their opinions can contribute to a collective effort in influencing change.

REFERENCES:

Federal Politics: Conservatives open seven-point lead over Liberals as past PPC voters migrate to Poilievre

Liberals’ “online hate” bill contains $70K fines for speech and life imprisonment for hate crimes

https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/online-harms-hate-crime-sentences-1.7128596

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-justice-minister-defends-house-arrest-power-for-people-feared-to/

https://montrealgazette.com/news/national/virani-says-new-measures-meant-to-help-prevent-hate-crimes-will-come-with-safeguards

https://www.theepochtimes.com/world/feds-target-online-content-that-foments-hatred-in-new-bill-seek-steep-penalties-5595412

https://www.rebelnews.com/liberals_table_promised_online_harms_censorship_legislation

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/trudeaus-online-harms-bill-threatens-freedom-of-expression-constitutional-lawyer-warns

https://www.parl.ca/DocumentViewer/en/44-1/bill/C-63/first-reading

https://em.citizengo.org/OTA3LU9EWS0wNTEAAAGRsmcQVWSchhVlH2Ays8BxQcP1xgK9KWmoK10MvOrCKgkK3zxb9g3G_qM7UDTgAByqcmm6YM8=

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Ring roars and adrenaline soars: United Boxing Promotions unveils another year of exciting fights

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Photo Credit: Jeff Lockhart

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

There was a palpable wave of anticipation sweeping through the air like an electric charge. The low hum of the crowd’s conversations intensified, creating a harmonious symphony of excitement. The atmosphere was charged with the promise of raw athleticism and unbridled competition. Spectators, perched on the edge of their seats, exchange animated glances and murmurs, their collective energy reaching a crescendo with every punch.

The scent of anticipation was thick, intermingling with the lingering echoes of bets being placed, and the occasional cheers that escaped from clusters of enthusiastic fans. The rhythmic thud of boxers’ footsteps reverberated through the venue, adding a primal heartbeat to the growing fervor.

As the announcer’s voice boomed over the speakers, introducing the contenders, the tension became almost tangible, creating an exhilarating prelude to the impending clash of skill and strength in the squared circle. The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, usually synonymous with chance and risk, transformed into a cathedral of adrenaline, where every spectator becomes a fervent believer in the unpredictable dance of combat about to unfold.

Once again, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto for a night of incredible fights. When I arrived, the Featherweight fight between Michael Cabato, and Jorge Diaz was nearing its end. Although not privy to the actual fight, I was informed that Michael Cabato had erased the only blemish on his record – an April 2023 draw – with a confident unanimous decision win over Jorge Diaz in a rare rematch.

Thankfully I was just in time for the Cruiserweight fight between Milad Zareian and Edgar Gonzalez. Milad Zareian stopped the overmatched Edgar Gonzalez and moved to 2-0 in the process. Boxing lovers definitely have to keep an eye on the promising newcomer, as he gradually discovers his rhythm and asserts his presence in the ring. The initial nervous energy that I saw in his first fight had transformed into a composed and calculated demeanor, evident in the fluidity of his movements and the precision of their strikes.

His increased comfort is palpable, as he is learning to seamlessly navigate the space, and exhibiting a heightened awareness of his surroundings. This newfound confidence is not only reflected in his technical proficiency, but also in his ability to adapt and strategize.

I stood up and cheered proudly when fellow Jamaican Ricardo ‘Big 12’ Brown caught Rafael Abdala Sanchez flush in the first round, ending their heavyweight clash early. As the dominant presence of Big 12 Brown continues to cast a looming shadow over the heavyweight division, fans are wondering if there exists anyone capable of challenging this formidable force. The relentless dominance of Big 12 has raised concerns about the competitive balance within the division, prompting a collective call to thoroughly assess the landscape, and identify potential contenders who can stand up to the challenge. The future of the division hinges on the strategic decisions made by United Boxing Promotions in their quest to find the next worthy adversary.

In an unfortunate turn of events Natasha ‘The Nightmare’ Spence was unable to showcase her skills in her match that was set against Angelica Flores. Drama ensued when Natasha reached out to Melinda Watpool to step in, as a return favour for her stepping in last year when Melinda’s fight was falling through. Melinda said “No,” stating her reasons, and Natasha was not having that. She was given a chance to speak to her fans in the ring, and she called out Melinda for not returning the favour. I can appreciate her frustration, and I enjoy the fact that there has been a little drama brought to the ring.

The Co-Main Event was an exciting match between Billy Allington, and Mark Smither, IBO International Super Lightweight Championship. British battler Billy Allington won a feisty 10-round road decision over Barrie, Ontario crowd favourite Mark Smither. The win should propel Allington back into the mix for another shot at the British title, and he and his team were full marks for the road victory.

Smither could not find the offensive breakthrough against the veteran Allington over the second half of their championship fight, and there was no protest after the scores were announced. His fight goes to show that it is crucial for a fighter to avoid leaving the outcome of a match to the scorecards.

At 12-1 and still the reigning IBO Americas Champion, Smither has a number of intriguing local, national and international options available — to be considered after a few weeks of reflection with his team and promoter.

Then there was the main event, the beloved Sukhdeep Singh against Gino Godoy, IBF International Junior Middleweight Championship. Sukhdeep ‘Chakria’ Singh legitimized his contender status, stopping Argentine Gino Godoy with an emphatic right in the fourth round to win the IBF International Junior Middleweight Championship.

This emerging young champion is undeniably one to keep a watchful eye on. With each passing challenge, his confidence continues to soar, solidifying his status as a rising star. In a recent triumph, he has added yet another impressive feat to his growing collection of accomplishments. As he navigates his way through various arenas, it becomes increasingly evident that his: determination, skill, and unwavering spirit are propelling him toward greatness. The world eagerly anticipates the next chapters of his journey, recognizing the undeniable potential of this remarkable individual who seems destined for even greater heights in the days to come.

I have some other exciting news for you boxing fans; United Boxing Promotions today announced the company has signed two-time Caribbean Amateur Champion Jerone Ennis to a multi-year promotional contract. Ennis, a product of Denham Town, Kingston, will campaign at light heavyweight and news regarding his professional debut in Canada will be announced shortly.

“This is another step in our efforts to build Jamaican boxing, and sign the best Jamaican talent available,” said United Promotions president Tyler Buxton. “Jerone is an elite boxer and joins a stable full of the best talent the country has to offer.”

The 24-year-old Ennis has big goals in the professional ranks and hopes to follow in the footsteps of Jamaican stablemates Kemahl ‘The Hitman’ Russell and Ricardo ‘Big 12’ Brown. “My goal is to rise through the ranks and hopefully in God’s favour one day become the number-one light heavyweight boxer in the world,” said Ennis, who in addition to his Caribbean titles also won a bronze medal at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games. “Kemahl Russell and Big 12 Brown have always inspired me to become great, and I am happy to now join the United family where we will all push each other to get better.”

Owwwweeee! The start of the boxing year in Toronto has been an electric one; I can’t wait to see what United Boxing Promotions has in store for us next!

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Leverage every opportunity, build a network, and defy the odds; RBC launches their Black Entrepreneur Program

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Photo Credit: Way Home Studio

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“I’m sorry, but we can’t approve your loan application. You lack a substantial credit history.”

“But I have a solid business plan and a clear vision,” you say with despair in your voice. You have worked so hard to put everything together, and once again, you feel shut out from your dreams.

It’s frustrating, I know. You are talented, educated, and motivated, but it feels like the system is working against you.

Starting your own business is a formidable endeavour laden with numerous challenges, especially if you are an African-Caribbean entrepreneur. One of the most formidable hurdles is the arduous task of acquiring the necessary resources, especially the difficulties with securing funding. Traditional sources (financial institutions) are often hesitant to invest in young entrepreneurs, and being African-Caribbean adds another layer of obstacles. This leaves young entrepreneurs grappling with a scarcity of financial backing, making it difficult to fund essential components like product development, marketing, and operational expenses.

Beyond monetary constraints: locating skilled personnel, securing a suitable workspace, and navigating the complex landscape of permits and regulations add additional layers of difficulty. Starting a business is tough for everyone, but as young African-Caribbean entrepreneurs, you must be resilient. This means seeking out community resources, grants, and mentorship programs.

I was impassioned when I received an email from an RBC representative sharing information about the recently launched Black Entrepreneur Program (BEP) committed to helping create opportunity, growth and equity for Black entrepreneurs.

The BEP has provided over $14.5 million in loans to date through the Black Entrepreneur Business Loan (BEBL) and the Black Entrepreneur Startup Program in collaboration with Futurpreneur (BESP). Beyond the loans, the program has facilitated over 8,000 interactions with Black entrepreneurs and clients, providing them with advice, resources and mentorship opportunities through RBC’s partner organizations and local events. Whether you’re a new business owner or a seasoned veteran they can help with advice, connections and banking solutions you need to get a new business started, or to grow your existing business to the next level.

They have a team that will guide you through all the steps to embark on your business journey—from planning to financing to launch. Their program for Black entrepreneurs aged 18-39 provides startup loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, plus access to resources and networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs across Canada.

They have also launched a tailored version of their core Startup Program specifically to help address some of the barriers to success faced by many aspiring Black entrepreneurs. They assist with:

  • Financing from $5,000 to $60,000 in startup loan financing (up to $40,000 of which is delivered by Futurpreneur, funded by RBC; and up to $20,000 loaned by BDC)
  • Up to two years of 1-1 expert mentorship
  • Gaining access to the resources you need to succeed; they provide an interactive Business Plan Writer and Cash Flow Template
  • Engaging with a national network of Black entrepreneurs, leaders and Black-led community organizations at a range of entrepreneurship events
  • The opportunity to apply for up to $40,000 in follow-on financing funded by RBC, based on the first two years of successful business performance.

I went through their programs and found one that I think would be great for young entrepreneurs in our community. “Rock MY BUSINESS; Three-Part Workshop Series Aspiring entrepreneurs: Transform your idea into a thriving business,” creates space for innovative entrepreneurial ideas and finds opportunities to fill gaps in the market with niche products and services.

Are you an entrepreneur looking to transform your idea into a thriving business, or grow your newly launched small business? You can register for the free, virtual, three-part Rock My Business workshop series, presented by Futurpreneur and RBC Future Launch. The series provides entrepreneurs with the tools to: develop your idea, formalize your business plans, and create a viable cashflow—all while connecting you with fellow entrepreneurs across Canada.

The intricate dance of balancing ambition with practicality becomes a constant struggle, requiring a tenacious spirit and resilience to overcome the myriad obstacles that inevitably arise. Despite these hardships, the journey of entrepreneurship is a testament to determination and vision, where the pursuit of one’s passion often fuels the perseverance needed to transform obstacles into steppingstones.

It’s not easy, but you must refuse to be another statistic. Leverage every opportunity, build a network, and defy the odds.

REFERENCES:

https://www.futurpreneur.ca/en/besp-ads?gad_source=1

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