Guterres pays tribute to Harry Belafonte ‘inspiring civil rights activist

Anjali Sharma

GG News Bureau

UNITED NATIONS, 26th April. UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday paid tribute to the legendary singer, entertainer, and civil rights activist, Harry Belafonte, who has died, aged 9, according to a statement issued by UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric in New York.

The statement said “At this moment of sorrow, let us be inspired by his example and strive to defend the dignity and rights of every human being, everywhere,”.

Guterres said “Beyond touching millions with his inimitable charm and charisma in music, film, and theatre, Mr. Belafonte devoted his life fighting for human rights and against injustice in all its forms”.

“He was a fearless campaigner for civil rights and a powerful voice in the struggle against apartheid, the fight against AIDS, and the quest to eradicate poverty.”

Belafonte was born in 1927 in Harlem, New York.

He was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the UNICEF in 1987. He set new standards for public advocacy on behalf of the world’s children, Mr. Dujarric added.

The statement noted that with unrelenting dedication and boundless generosity, he engaged presidents, parliamentarians, and civil society to advocate for children.

UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell, said that during Mr. Belafonte’s 36 years as Goodwill Ambassador, his dedication and generosity of spirit helped set a high standard for the role meeting with world leaders to rally support for the agency and the issues that impact children’s lives.

“We mourn the loss of Harry Belafonte, one of the world’s greatest actors, singers, producers, and champions of human rights – especially children,” she said. “His legacy includes advocating for primary healthcare, treatment for HIV/AIDS, and free access to education for all.”

Ms. Russell said that he was an eloquent campaigner for the world’s children, he understood the power of focusing the world’s attention on its most needy, including, among other things, giving the iconic UNICEF School-in-a-Box its name, and organizing the Grammy winning and quadruple platinum single, We are the World, to raise money for African famine relief.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the Belafonte family, and join his many fans, friends and admirers from across the globe in celebrating his life, his work, and his steadfast commitment to children,” she added.