New York, NY – April 6, 2010 – Multi-platinum record artist Wyclef Jean and civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton will be honored with the “Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award” at the 29th International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), Sunday May 2nd at York College Performing Arts Center in New York.

The Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award is the most esteemed award given at the IRAWMA’s, with Haitian-American Jean and Rev. Sharpton, president of National Action Network (NAN) and a tireless civil rights activist, being this year’s worthy recipients. “The Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award is given each year to individuals who exemplify through their work, assistance, and a voice for the disenfranchised and needy.” Said event producer Ephraim Martin, president of Martin’s International, “Reverend Sharpton continues to be a voice for the poor, seeking social justice where it is due and Wyclef has done a remarkable job in his efforts for Haiti.”

In fact, Jean, through his Yéle Haiti organization has reportedly raised over $9 million since the January earthquakes in Haiti. Reverend Sharpton whose organization holds their annual conference next week voices concern daily through his radio show and rallies across the country.

The 29th IRAWMA [http://www.irawma.com] is the longest running reggae and world music event in the country, continuing the trend of celebrating the most popular performing artists in the music genres. Performers and nominees for IRAWMA 2010 include Julian Marley, Dean Fraser, Queen Ifrica, Tarrus Riley, Gramps Morgan, Machel Montano, Barbee, Alison Hinds, Winsome Benjamin, Tony Rebel, Sean Paul, Beenieman and Vybz Kartel among others.

IRAWMA also recognize artists in Gospel, Salsa, Latin, Reggaeton, Calypso, Soca, African, Soukous, Compas, Racine and Hip Hop.  For further information, ticket info, voting and a list of all sponsors (American Airlines, Western Union, MD-TV etc.) visit: http://www.irawma.com/.

About IRAWMA:
In 1981, Jamaican photo-journalist Ephraim Martin staged the “Reggae Awards” in Chicago. Over the last 29 years the annual event has travelled to Miami, Atlanta, Ft. Lauderdale, New Orleans, New York and Jamaica. IRAWMA honors Reggae and World Beat entertainers for their outstanding contribution to the international music community. Reggae and World Music industry experts select the top entertainers for more than 40 categories. Music fans across the globe are then given the opportunity to vote for their favorites, the nominee with the most votes takes home the coveted trophy. IRAWMA has grown into the oldest and longest running annual Reggae and World Music event.