Louise Bennett Coverly is a cultural icon who is sure to remain in the minds and hearts of Jamaicans for years to come. The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) is doing its part to ensure that this remains so. The JCDC will culminate a series of celebratory events in various parishes this month with a tour and celebration in St Andrew.

"The JCDC and the community felt it was necessary to have a grand culmination in Gordon Town where she resided," said Nahemia Blackwood-Lusan, cultural organiser, Kingston and St Andrew JCDC.

Slated for September 26, the day's events will consist of The Walk Good Tour from Gordon Town Square to Miss Lou's house. Persons will be guided through the house by a member of the Gordon Town Police Youth Club and will be treated to a glass of lemonade before leaving. They will be redirected to the square where a host of activities and booths will be available for individuals to visit. There will be a poetry contest, pop and variety competitions and an open mic - where individuals who have a story to tell about Miss Lou can do so briefly.

There will also be maypole dancing and the ceremonial cutting of a cake for the icon's birthday, September 7.

There will be a fashion show with local designers and concert with entrants from the JCDC Festival of the Performing Arts, along with others.

Entry

Entrance is free but food and rides come at a cost. Individuals who would like to make a contribution are encouraged to do so. The master of ceremony will be Joan Andrea Hutchinson.

Blackwood-Lusan said Miss Lou was a trailblazer. The fact that she was not afraid, is what inspires her most about the folklorist. The depth of her work and her contribution to the respect that is given to Jamaican patois are two other reasons.

"I'm now able to tell my daughter, yes, you can express in your language but you can also do it in English," she said.