"Not by the color of the skin but by the content of the character"
African of the Millenium?
West Africa is full of variety. On its northern edge we find the earth's hottest desert while on its southern coast we find the world wettest capital Monrovia, where over 180 inches of rain fall every year.
West Africa might be considered the homeland of the Negroes. Black Africa largest population, that of Nigeria sits nestled with one of its most sparsely populated nations, Mauritania. Its is a society with strong tribal ties with the major tribal groups including the Yoruba, Ibo, Hausa, Ashanti, Kru, and Mandingo.
West Africa sits in the middle of the tropics and therefore has sunny beaches, huge savannas and dense jungles. Among its unique fauna and flora we find Funtumia elastica, the wild rubber plant of West Africa's jungle and Cheoropsis liberiensis, the pygmy hippopotamus found only in the Liberian jungle.
West Africa is also home to great sporting genuises including George Weah, the only African to be voted World Best Footballer; Abedi Pele, the Ghanian legend who was Africa Best footballer on several occasions; and Austin Jay-Jay Okocha who led Nigeria to Olympic football gold. I am unable to mention others due to space.
It is a nice place to visit and even a better place to live.
-PHIL
A relevant necessity
Of all the countries of the world, Liberia is perhaps the one for which Black History Month has the greatest significance. In 1862, Liberia became the first African republic to have its independence recognized by the United States. Fifteen years before, Liberia had become independent and based its flag, constitution and even its Declaration of Independence on those of the United States. In addition, African-Americans who desired to start a new life in a nation of their own played a pivotal role in the establishment of Liberia. Thus the African American experience is a shared one for all Liberians. And like any other experience, it must be understood fully if its benefits and lessons are to be duly recognized.
Some years back, the noted Negro Historian, Carter G. Woodson proposed that a week in February be set aside for the study and appreciation of the African-American experience. His intention was not merely to have another activity, but rather to bring to light the contributions that African-Americans have made to the society of the United States and the world at large.
Today, it has been recognized that single week does no justice to the achievements and poignancy of Black History. It is now a month. It is a month of appreciation, a month of reflection, and a month of inspiration. Yet it is not limited to that time frame. The recognition of the inherent dignity of man, regardless of his origins or situation is something that deserves a permanent place in our lives.
For this reason, it is not just expected that you observe Black History Month. It is anticipated that you make each day of the rest of your existence a living monument to the human spirit and its unyielding desire for freedom, fellowship, and fulfillment. Going beyond observation and entering into action is the most appropriate commemoration.
-by Phil Dixon
Advocacy