[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 99 (Thursday, June 11, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E568]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RECOGNIZING GARTH FAGAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JOSEPH D. MORELLE

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 11, 2026

  Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American 
Heritage Month to recognize a gifted creative from Rochester, New York: 
Garth Fagan.
  Born in Jamaica, Garth Fagan developed an early passion for dance and 
a deep appreciation for the rich rhythms, movement traditions, and 
cultural heritage of the Caribbean. After immigrating to the United 
States, he settled in Rochester in 1970 and founded what would become 
Garth Fagan Dance, a company that has earned international acclaim and 
helped establish Rochester as a center for artistic excellence. Through 
his work, he brought Caribbean influences to audiences around the world 
while strengthening the cultural fabric of our community.
  Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Fagan has pioneered a unique 
dance technique that blends modern dance and ballet with Afro-Caribbean 
movement, rhythm, and energy. His innovative choreography has expanded 
the boundaries of contemporary dance and elevated Caribbean artistic 
traditions within American performing arts. His creative vision reached 
a global audience through his celebrated choreography for Broadway's 
The Lion King, earning him a Tony Award and cementing his place among 
the most influential choreographers of his generation.
  Beyond his accomplishments on stage, Garth Fagan has dedicated 
himself to mentoring young artists and cultivating the next generation 
of performers. As a teacher and community leader, he has inspired 
countless dancers to pursue excellence while embracing creativity, 
discipline, and cultural pride. His work has served as a bridge between 
Caribbean and American artistic traditions, fostering greater 
understanding and appreciation through the universal language of dance.
  It is my distinct honor to recognize Garth Fagan during Caribbean 
American Heritage Month. His extraordinary artistry, leadership, and 
commitment to cultural expression have enriched Rochester, strengthened 
the performing arts, and showcased the enduring contributions of 
Caribbean Americans to our Nation. I thank him for his remarkable 
achievements and for the inspiration he continues to provide to 
communities in Rochester and beyond.

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