"Bob Marley Day" declared in Toronto by Mayor Rob Ford

Toronto Mayor Rob Ford has declared Thursday, Feb. 6, as Bob Marley Day.

The embattled mayor made the announcement on what would have been the music icon’s 69th birthday.

"WHEREAS each year on February 6, we honor the legacy of Robert (Bob) Nesta Marley, an influential musician, advocate for human rights and international ambassador of peace," the proclamation reads. "His early career began with friends, the legendary Wailers, 'Bob Marley and the Wailers.' His music captivated people of all cultures, broke music barriers and helped introduce reggae music to the world."

It continues, "Bob Marley became one of the greatest ambassadors of peace the world has seen. He used music to tear down the walls of apartheid and promoted African unity, culture and world peace both at home and internationally, with songs like One Love and Africa Unite. Today, his music continues to be loved by many and is instantly recognized around the world.”

"NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Rob Ford, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim February 6, 2014 as 'Bob Marley Day’ in the City of Toronto," the proclamation concludes.

Marley died in 1981 at the age of 36.

This isn't the first time Ford -- who is running for office again despite repeated calls that he step down following revelations of drug use and other erratic behavior -- has expressed an affinity for Marley. In December he was caught on video dancing to the song "One Love" during a city council meeting (watch it in the video above).