"We are delighted to appoint ETANA (the Strong one) as Musical Ambassador for 2014. From my first meeting with her when she was just starting out some years ago at one of her early performances at the Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, I have been impressed by her wisdom and wit. Speaking to her then, it was clear to me that she wanted to make music that is conscious and positive. Knowing how hard it is for women to succeed in the business when they present themselves as more than sexy bodies, makes me extremely proud of her. We really are delighted that we will have this opportunity to work together" Dr. Claire Nelson, Founder, Institute of Caribbean Studies.

As NCAHM Musical Ambassador, Etana will engage a younger audience to bring awareness that June is Caribbean American Heritage Month. Etana will also continue to be a role model to her generation of young Caribbean musicians and performers.

The NCAHM Musical Ambassador Program is once again being managed through RedCarpetShelley.com who has signed on as a National Media Partner. To book Etana for your NCAHM events or for interviews and appearances, please contact us at icsdcorg@gmail.com or media@redcarpetshelley.com.

ABOUT INSTITUTE OF CARIBBEAN STUDIES

The Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) is a non-partisan, non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization established in 1993 dedicated to education, advocacy and action on issues that impact on Caribbean Americans. The purpose of the Institute is to provide a forum for the public and private sector, the non-government organization community, scholars and others interested in promoting a dialogue and to assist in the execution of actions that result from that dialogue.

ICS has become leading community think-do tank in the Caribbean diaspora in the US. ICS is the architect and campaign chair of National Caribbean American Heritage Month, executive producer of the National Caribbean American Heritage Awards since 1994, Convener of the Invest Caribbean Business Leaders Dialogue since 1999, and the Caribbean Futures Initiative established in 2007. For more information on Dr. Nelson and the Institute of Caribbean Studies, visit www.icsdc.org.