MIAMI-DADE—Franz N. Hall, Jamaica’s newly appointed Consul General to Miami, was introduced to the South Florida landscape Thursday, Oct. 10 during a welcome reception and the opening of the exhibition Bob Marley Messenger at HistoryMiami Museum. He will be responsible for consular affairs in 13 States of the Southern United States, as well as Bahamas and the Cayman Islands.
In his first official public appearance, Hall congratulated HistoryMiami for its vision in mounting the three-month exhibition which shows Robert Nesta Marley as man, musician, father and friend.
Describing the work of the late international icon, Hall said that Marley continues to impact globally as his message still bears relevance today as when they were first written, more than 30 years ago. “A true messenger, he was not only writing for his time, but for all times,” said Hall.
The Consul General also spoke of Marley’s link with South Florida throughout his life and career, which he said reflected the story of so many Jamaicans, who, although not achieving the same level of fame as Marley, have contributed to the development and cultural enrichment of the city of Miami and its environs.
“It is therefore fitting that the exhibition should be mounted in Miami,” said Hall.
The three-month travelling exhibition will run through January as its last stop before moving to its permanent home in Jamaica.
In addition to the large collection of displays including posters, memorabilia, photographs, and recordings, visitors to the event saw a live performance from Kymani Marley, recording artist and son of the late international icon who entertained with selections from the Bob Marley collection.
HistoryMiami’s President and Chief Executive Officer Ramiro Ortiz, and Museum Director and Chief Operating Officer Stuart Chase welcomed the hundred patrons who joined in the nightlong Jamaican cultural experience through music, food and entertainment.
Hall succeeds Sandra Grant Griffiths who has been appointed Ambassador designate to the United Mexican States. He assumed his position on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013 at the Consulate in downtown Miami.
A career diplomat, Hall has more than 20 years experience in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, having served in Jamaican missions in Geneva, New York and Washington, D.C.
As he prepares himself to undertake his responsibilities, Hall has expressed an interest in continuing engagement in all areas relevant to Jamaica’s national interest and economic development.
In addition, he intends to continue working with, and in support of, efforts that would be beneficial to the development of the Diaspora, which he called “a vital community of support for their families in Jamaica.” With an avid interest in the arts, Hall spoke of Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage “imbued with unmatched creativity, talent and skill,” while, at the same time, calling on nationals to bring these attributes to bear on the challenges now facing Jamaica.
Working in the spirit of unity, Hall pointed out that “we can achieve the ideals embodied in the words —Jamaica, the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business.”
*Pictured above is Franz N. Hall.
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