A ceremony to commemorate the 135th anniversary of the birth of Marcus Mosiah Garvey was held at the National Heroes Park in Kingston, on Wednesday morning.

The event consisted of the laying of eight floral tributes by the monument of the national hero, by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, opposition leader Mark Golding, Prime Minister Andrew Holness, among others.

Speaking at the tribute, Culture Minister Olivia Grange said the celebration of the life of Jamaica’s first national hero is a joyous occasion as the country marks it’s 60th year of independence.

Minister Grange said the tribute is important as it marks the life of a man who fought greatly for the liberation of African people and the progression of the nation.

Meanwhile, son of the national hero, Julius Garvey, expressed that the tribute was an emotional one, as he said he remembers the important things his father fought for.