The Brooklyn Caribbean Literary Festival (BCLF), a beacon for Caribbean voices since 2019, honoured Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, with its prestigious award. New York Mayor Eric Adams presented the accolade, lauding Beckles’ “outstanding contributions” as a writer, educator, and historian who has shaped the cultural landscape.

During the festival’s “Rebel Islands” segment at the Weeksville Heritage Centre, Vice-Chancellor Beckles captivated the audience, delving into the Caribbean’s rich history and his unwavering commitment to education. Accepting his honour, he credited The UWI’s mission: “We have an eternal duty to provide literary and intellectual responses to the challenges we face.”