Sizzla’s Concert Makes Historic Milestone with Sign Language Inclusion

The Jamaica Association for the Deaf partnered with the organizers of Sizzla’s Rise to the Occasion concert to bring Jamaican Sign Language to the stage, marking a groundbreaking step toward inclusivity in entertainment

One of the interpreters from the night, Mandy Cowan (Photo: Jamar Cleary)

The Jamaica Association for the Deaf (JAD) joined forces with the organizers of Sizzla’s Rise to the Occasion concert to introduce Jamaican Sign Language interpreters live on stage, marking the first time a major stage show in Jamaica has taken such a historic step toward inclusivity.

This historic collaboration provided genuine access for members of the Deaf community, allowing them to fully experience and enjoy the performances. A team of three interpreters skillfully engaged with each act, turning the concert into a visually immersive celebration of culture, unity, and accessibility for all.

“We at the Jamaica Association for the Deaf commend the vision and intention of the event organizers who made this bold move to ensure accessibility for a population who oftentimes don’t have the opportunity to engage with Jamaican culture in the same way as the hearing population,” said Kimberley Marriott-Blake, Executive Director of JAD.

“Interpreters have long supported private and public sector events in a formal setting, but as we encourage the public to see Deaf persons as having vibrant and diverse interests, we know there are members of the community who have longed for greater access in leisure, entertainment, and culture.”

Dancehall icon Bounty Killer shared a post on Instagram with one of the interpreters from the night, Mandy Cowan, who wrote, “Bless up to the legacy for recognizing the importance of having us on stage!”.

Marriott-Blake added, “This is the kind of history we love to see made, where accessibility is not just spoken about but put into action. We encourage other promoters and event organizers to see this as an example worth following as we ensure accessibility at entertainment and cultural events across Jamaica.”

Members of the Deaf community who attended described the experience as deeply meaningful, praising both the quality of the production and the powerful performances that celebrated the life and legacy of Sizzla Kalonji - an artist long regarded as a voice for the voiceless, and now, symbolically, a true ally of the Deaf community.