Threads of Unity: Igbo-American Intercultural

09/24/2023

This Continent Shall rise again. After the rain comes the son

09/24/2023

This union will forever be

09/24/2023

Nature always find a way to teach us that no matter the circumstances once two people remain committed to each other for a single purpose, They will still blossom like a tree planted by the river side....

Everyone

09/16/2023

The African diaspora has played a vital role in restoring liberation in Africa, both during the colonial era and in the years since independence.

Colonial era

During the colonial era, the African diaspora was instrumental in raising awareness of the atrocities being committed in Africa and mobilizing support for the independence movement. African diaspora activists and organizations lobbied governments, published newspapers and magazines, and organized protests and demonstrations. They also provided financial and material support to African liberation movements.

Some of the most prominent African diaspora activists of the colonial era include:

Marcus Garvey (Jamaica): Garvey was a Pan-Africanist leader who founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914. The UNIA was a mass movement that advocated for the return of Africans in the diaspora to their homeland. Garvey also provided financial and material support to African liberation movements.

Kwame Nkrumah (Ghana): Nkrumah was a Ghanaian independence leader who became the first prime minister and president of Ghana. Nkrumah was educated in the United States, where he was involved in the Pan-African movement. He returned to Ghana in 1947 and led the country to independence in 1957. Nkrumah was a strong supporter of African unity and liberation, and he provided support to African liberation movements throughout the continent.

W.E.B. Du Bois (United States): Du Bois was an American sociologist, historian, civil rights activist, Pan-Africanist, author, and editor. He was one of the founders of the NAACP in 1909 and served as its director of research for 25 years. Du Bois was a prolific writer and speaker on race and civil rights. He was also a strong supporter of African liberation, and he wrote extensively on the subject.

Post-colonial era

In the years since independence, the African diaspora has continued to play an important role in supporting African development and liberation. African diaspora organizations have provided financial and material support to African countries, invested in businesses, and supported social and economic development projects. African diaspora activists have also continued to advocate for African unity and liberation.

Ways African Diasporas can Assist:

Investing in education and skills development: The African diaspora can invest in education and skills development in Africa by providing scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial assistance to African students. The diaspora can also support the development of vocational training programs and other initiatives that will help Africans develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.

Promoting entrepreneurship and innovation: The African diaspora can promote entrepreneurship and innovation in Africa by investing in businesses and startups. The diaspora can also support the development of entrepreneurial ecosystems and mentorship programs.

Advocating for good governance and democracy: The African diaspora can advocate for good governance and democracy in Africa by speaking out against corruption, human rights abuses, and other injustices. The diaspora can also support the development of civil society organizations and other institutions that promote democracy and accountability.

Promoting African unity and solidarity: The African diaspora can promote African unity and solidarity by working together to support African development and liberation. The diaspora can also work to build bridges between different African communities and to promote a sense of shared identity and purpose.

In addition to these specific ways, the African diaspora can also support future liberation in Africa simply by being a positive and supportive force in the lives of Africans. The diaspora can provide mentorship, guidance, and encouragement to Africans on the continent. The diaspora can also help to promote African culture and heritage, and to build a sense of pride and confidence in Africans.

Investing in businesses: The African diaspora is a significant source of foreign direct investment in Africa. African diaspora investors are starting businesses, creating jobs, and helping to grow the African economy.

Supporting social and economic development projects: African diaspora organizations are supporting a wide range of social and economic development projects in Africa, including education, healthcare, and agriculture.

Advocating for African unity and liberation: African diaspora activists continue to advocate for African unity and liberation. They are working to raise awareness of the challenges facing Africa and to promote policies that will help Africa develop and thrive.

The African diaspora is a vital asset to Africa. African diaspora members have the skills, knowledge, and resources to help Africa achieve its full potential. The African diaspora is also a powerful voice for African unity and liberation.

During the South African anti-apartheid struggle, the African diaspora played a critical role in raising awareness of the apartheid regime's abuses and mobilizing international support for the movement. The African National Congress (ANC) had offices in many countries around the world, and the African diaspora worked tirelessly to support the ANC and its mission.

In recent years, the African diaspora has been involved in supporting democratic reforms and civil society development in Africa. The African diaspora has also been involved in promoting human rights and conflict resolution on the continent.

The African diaspora is a diverse community, and there is a wide range of views on how to best support liberation in Africa. However, there is a strong consensus among the African diaspora that Africa must be free and independent in order to achieve its full potential. The African diaspora is committed to working with Africans on the continent to build a better future for Africa.

09/16/2023

09/14/2023

Duality/Duet

Divine polarity is the concept that the divine is expressed through the interplay of opposites, such as masculine and feminine, light and dark, active and receptive. This principle can be seen in many different spiritual traditions, including Igbo Mysticism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and many more.

In Hinduism, the divine is often depicted as a union of Shiva and Shakti, the masculine and feminine principles. Shiva represents the stillness and emptiness of pure consciousness, while Shakti represents the dynamic and creative energy of the universe. Their union is said to be the source of all creation.

In Buddhism, the concept of polarity is expressed in the yin and yang symbol. Yin represents the feminine principle, which is associated with darkness, receptivity, and intuition. Yang represents the masculine principle, which is associated with light, activity, and reason. The two principles are interdependent and complementary, and their interplay is said to be the source of all phenomena.

In Taoism, the concept of polarity is expressed in the concept of the Tao. The Tao is the underlying reality of the universe, and it is said to be both the source and the sum of all opposites. The Tao is often depicted as a spiral, which represents the continuous flow of energy between the opposites.

In Igbo mysticism, the concept of divine polarity is expressed in the concept of CHINEKE. Where CHI is the divine masculine energy of light. EKE is the divine feminine creative principle from whom every creation emanated. The two principles as CHI N' EKE becoming interdependent and inseparable. Their harmonious interplay becomes the source and continuity of all phenomena.

The principle of divine polarity can also be seen in the human experience. We all have both masculine and feminine qualities, and the interplay of these qualities is what gives us our unique personality and perspective. When we embrace our polarity, we become more whole and balanced individuals.

In relationships, polarity is essential for creating a sense of excitement and intimacy. When two people are opposites, they can learn from each other and grow together. However, it is important to find a balance between polarity and harmony. Too much polarity can lead to conflict, while too much harmony can lead to boredom.

The principle of divine polarity is a powerful reminder that the world is not black and white. There is no such thing as good or evil, right or wrong. Everything is a matter of perspective, and the interplay of opposites is what creates the richness and complexity of life.

Be aware of the opposites within yourself.
What are your masculine and feminine qualities?
How do they manifest in your life?
Find a balance between polarity and harmony in your relationships. Allow yourself to be challenged by your partner, but also find ways to connect with them on a deep level.
Explore the different spiritual traditions that incorporate the concept of polarity. This can help you to deepen your understanding of the divine and your own place in the world.
Be open to the idea that there is no one right way to live. The world is full of different perspectives, and each one has something to offer.
The principle of divine polarity can be a powerful tool for personal growth and spiritual development. By embracing our polarity, we can become more whole and balanced individuals, and we can create more fulfilling and meaningful relationships.

09/11/2023

THE LEGEND OF "IBO LANDING"

Igbo Landing is a historic site at Dunbar Creek on St. Simons Island, Georgia. It was the setting of a mass su***de in 1803 by captive Igbo people who had taken control of their slave ship and refused to submit to slavery in the United States. The event's moral value as a story of resistance towards slavery has symbolic importance in African American folklore as the flying Africans legend, and in literary history.

The Igbo people were an ethnic group from what is now Nigeria. They were known for their strong resistance to slavery, and many Igbo people were killed or committed su***de rather than be enslaved.

In 1803, a group of Igbo people were captured by slave traders and taken to the United States. They were taken to Savannah, Georgia, and then transported to St. Simons Island.

On the way to St. Simons Island, the Igbo people mutinied and took control of the slave ship. They killed the crew and sailed the ship to Dunbar Creek.

When the Igbo people reached Dunbar Creek, they refused to disembark. They believed that it was better to die than to be enslaved. They waded into the water and drowned themselves.

The event at Igbo Landing is a powerful symbol of resistance to slavery. It is a reminder of the strength and courage of the Igbo people, and it continues to inspire people today.

The story of Igbo Landing has been passed down through oral tradition for generations. It has been told in songs, poems, and stories. The story has also been featured in books and films.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the story of Igbo Landing. This is due in part to the Black Lives Matter movement, which has brought attention to the history of slavery and racism in the United States.

The story of Igbo Landing is a reminder of the horrors of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a story that needs to be told and retold so that we never forget the sacrifices that were made for freedom.

09/11/2023

Colonialism is the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically. In the case of Africa, colonialism began in the 15th century with the Portuguese exploration of the continent. Over the next few centuries, other European powers, including the British, French, Belgians, Germans, Spanish, and Italians, also came in and colonized the lands and people Africa.

The colonial powers justified their domination of Africa on a number of grounds, including the need to "civilize" the Africans and to bring them the benefits of European culture and technology. However, the reality of colonialism was often very different. The colonial powers exploited Africa's resources for their own benefit, and they often treated the Africans with cruelty and oppression.

The African continent was divided up into colonies by the colonial powers, and each colony was ruled by a different European power. This created a patchwork of different cultures and languages, which made it difficult for Africans to unite and resist colonialism.

The colonial powers also suppressed African culture and religion. They forced Africans to convert to Christianity, and they banned traditional African practices. This led to a loss of identity and a sense of alienation among many Africans.

Colonialism had a profound impact on Africa. It led to the exploitation of Africa's resources, the suppression of African culture and religion, and the division of the continent into different colonies.
The end of colonialism began in the mid-20th century, with the independence of Ghana in 1957. Over the next few decades, most of the other African colonies also gained their independence. However, the legacy of colonialism continues to be felt in Africa today, and many African countries are still struggling to overcome the challenges of poverty, corruption, and political instability that were created by colonialism.

Effects of colonialism in Africa includes:

Economic exploitation: The colonial powers extracted Africa's resources for their own benefit, leaving many African countries impoverished.
Political instability: The arbitrary borders drawn by the colonial powers often divided ethnic groups and contributed to political instability in many African countries.
Social problems: Colonialism led to the breakdown of traditional African societies and the rise of new social problems, such as poverty, crime, and HIV/AIDS.
Cultural loss: Colonialism led to the suppression of African culture and religion, and many African languages are now endangered.
The effects of colonialism are still being felt in Africa today. Many African countries are still struggling to overcome the challenges of poverty, corruption, and political instability that were created by colonialism. However, there is also a growing movement of African people who are working to reclaim their culture and identity and to build a better future for their continent.

09/09/2023

Once upon a time, there was a great kingdom that stood for centuries. It was ruled by wise and just kings and queens, and its people were prosperous and happy.

But one day, a new king came to power. He was a cruel and arrogant man, and he quickly made life miserable for the people. He taxed them heavily, and he forced them to work long hours in his mines and factories.

The people were unhappy, but they were afraid to speak out against the king. They knew that he would punish them if they did.

One day, a young man named Ikenga decided that he had had enough. He gathered a group of other young men, and they rebelled against the king.

The king's army was much larger than Ikenga's, but Ikenga and his men were fighting for a just cause. They were fighting for the freedom of their people.

After a long and bloody battle, Ikenga and his men were victorious. The king was overthrown, and the people were free.

The new government was led by Ikenga, who ruled wisely and justly. The kingdom was once again prosperous and happy.

But even the best of kingdoms eventually fall. After many years, Ikenga's descendants became corrupt and greedy. They taxed the people heavily, and they forced them to work long hours in their mines and factories.

The people were once again unhappy, and they began to rebel. The kingdom was overthrown, and a new government was established.

This cycle of rise and fall repeated itself many times over the centuries. Each time, the kingdom would rise to greatness, only to fall into decline.

But even though the kingdom fell, the people never forgot the lessons of the past. They knew that every kingdom rises and falls, but that the human spirit is eternal.

The story of the kingdom is a reminder that nothing lasts forever. Empires rise and fall, but the human spirit "Ikenga" endures. We may not always be victorious, but we will never give up hope.

09/08/2023

The young athlete was exhausted. He had been training for months for this race, and now it was finally here. He lined up at the starting line, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew that this was his chance to make it to the Olympics, but he also knew that it would be a tough race.

The gun went off, and the runners took off. The young athlete was in the middle of the pack, but he quickly started to fall behind. The other runners were just too fast for him. He started to doubt himself. Maybe he wasn't good enough after all.

But then he remembered the words of his coach. "When it becomes tougher, the glory day is near," the coach had said. The young athlete knew that he had to keep going, no matter how hard it got.

He dug deep and found the strength to keep running. He passed one runner, then another. He was gaining ground. With every step, he felt more confident. He knew that he could do this.

The finish line was in sight. The young athlete gave it everything he had. He crossed the finish line in third place, qualifying for the Olympics. He had done it!

The young athlete's story is a reminder that when things get tough, we should never give up. The glory day is often just around the corner. If we keep going, we can achieve anything we set our minds to.

09/08/2023

What do you call a zombie apocalypse that happens on a Monday?

A bore-a-lypse

09/08/2023

Why is marriage like a bank robbery?

Because you give up all your cash and hope to get some interest back.🤓🤓🤓

09/02/2023

Today In History September 1st
In 1969

Qaddafi leads coup in Libya

Muammar al-Qaddafi, a 27-year-old Libyan army captain, leads a successful military coup against King Idris I of Libya. Idris was deposed and Qaddafi was named chairman of Libya’s new governing body, the Revolutionary Command Council.

Qaddafi was born in a tent in the Libyan desert in 1942, the son of a Bedouin farmer. A gifted student, he graduated from the University of Libya in 1963 and the Libyan military academy at Banghazi in 1965. An ardent Arab nationalist, he plotted with a group of fellow officers to overthrow King Idris, who was viewed as overly conservative and indifferent to the movement for greater political unity among Arab countries. By the time Qaddafi attained the rank of captain, in 1969, the revolutionaries were ready to strike. They waited until King Idris was out of the country, being treated for a leg ailment at a Turkish spa, and then toppled his government in a bloodless coup. The monarchy was abolished, and Idris traveled from Turkey to Greece before finding asylum in Egypt. He died there in Cairo in 1983.

Blending Islamic orthodoxy, revolutionary socialism and Arab nationalism, Qaddafi established a fervently anti-Western dictatorship in Libya. In 1970, he removed U.S. and British military bases and expelled Italian and Jewish Libyans. In 1973, he took control of foreign-owned oil fields. He reinstated traditional Islamic laws, such as prohibition of alcoholic beverages and gambling, but liberated women and launched social programs that improved the standard of living in Libya. As part of his stated ambition to unite the Arab world, he sought closer relations with his Arab neighbors, especially Egypt. However, when Egypt and then other Arab nations began a peace process with Israel, Libya became increasingly isolated.

Qaddafi’s government financed a wide variety of terrorist groups worldwide, from Palestinian guerrillas and Philippine Muslim rebels to the Irish Republican Army. During the 1980s, the West blamed him for numerous terrorist attacks in Europe, and in April 1986 U.S. war planes bombed Tripoli in retaliation for a bombing of a West German dance hall. Qaddafi was reportedly injured and his infant daughter killed in the U.S. attack.

In the late 1990s, Qaddafi sought to lead Libya out of its long international isolation by turning over to the West two suspects wanted for the 1988 explosion of an airliner over Lockerbie, Scotland. In response, the United Nations lifted sanctions against Libya. The United States removed its own embargo in September 2004. After years of rejection in the Arab world, Qaddafi also sought to forge stronger relations with non-Islamic African nations such as South Africa, remodeling himself as an elder African statesman.

In February 2011, as unrest spread through much of the Arab world, massive political protests against the Qaddafi regime sparked a civil war between revolutionaries and loyalists. In March, an international coalition began conducting airstrikes against Qaddafi strongholds under the auspices of a U.N. Security Council resolution. On October 20, Libya’s interim government announced that Qaddafi had died after being captured near his hometown of Sirte.

https://youtu.be/5mrY67lSmTQ

09/02/2023

09/01/2023

https://youtu.be/5mrY67lSmTQ

When Africa Rises, Blacks all over the world will rise