I have some exciting news to share β my first event is finally happening! It’s been months of planning, dreaming, and collaborating with my lovely community. I am thrilled to invite you to join me for a day that’s all about connection, inspiration, and celebrating the journey we are on together. Whether you have been with me from the beginning or you are just discovering my brand, we are ready to make memories and take this next step together.
Make sure you are ready and here in Accra on March 22nd. It’s going to be fabulous. Get your tickets now here.
Ok. Let’s get into the details.
I am co-organizing the Burgundy experience with Adrenaline 360. You already know how much I love culture, art, fashion, music, and time travel. So it only makes sense to create an experience that showcases these things.
Step into an unforgettable evening of luxury, style, and culture at Burgundy, an exclusive event that blends sophistication with the vibrant energy of Afro-Latin influences. Designed for a discerning audience who appreciates the finest in life, this celebration is set against an island-inspired, tropical backdrop.
The evening will begin with decadent canapes, curated by a renowned guest chef, offering a fusion of exquisite Afro-Latin and island-inspired flavors. Pair your meal with handcrafted cocktails and savor the essence of a tropical escape, as you enjoy fragrance sampling that transports you through the sensory world of exotic aromas.
As the evening progresses, immerse yourself in the world of high fashion and glamour with an exclusive Afrofuturism live mannequin fashion installation, followed by live performances that bring Afro-Latin rhythms to life. From captivating DJ sets to mesmerizing dance acts, the performances promise to set the stage for a night of excitement.
Art and fashion lovers will enjoy a curated auction featuring stunning artwork and one-of-a-kind fashion pieces. As the night unfolds, the atmosphere evolves into a high-energy after-party with tropical beats, allowing guests to dance the night away in true afofuturistic island style.
Burgundy is not just an eventβit’s an experience. From the finest food and drink to the electrifying performances, every detail is crafted to indulge your senses and create memories of a truly elegant and vibrant affair.
Preparing for this event has been a fun adventure. A lot of collaboration and learning. Of course, I will be sharing with you exclusive behind-the-scenes in my newsletter as we countdown to the event. Make sure you subscribe to my newsletter for more details.
This has also continued to be a beautiful experience for me. As the ideas and planning have transformed from notes on a phone to a reality in progress, it has encouraged me to explore more possibilities for myself and Bandele Muse. I find it interesting how brands and businesses continue to grow and evolve in ways you might not have expected when you started. But the mystery makes more sense when you keep going and keep trusting.
Ok. That’s all the details for now.
Burgundy is an experience. This is the debut event. We have more to host and create next for you to enjoy with Burgundy.
What do you think of the concept? Share with me.
There are also opportunities to sponsor. Please contact me if you want to contribute or get involved.
And, do you know someone who you think would love this? Go ahead and share this post with them.
The African Games in Ghana was a big program that provided a spectrum of victories and hiccups. As it was the first time an event like this was hosted in Ghana, I was curious to witness it. I attended the opening ceremony and some of the tennis and net ball games. Let’s recap, shall we?
The 13th edition of the African Games was hosted in Ghana in March 2024. The program was 15 days of sports contests and ceremonies. Reportedly, Ghana hosted 5,000 athletes and coaches from 55 African countries, competing in 29 selected sports codes, plus 3,000 technical officers, journalists, and global celebrities. The African Games were used as an official qualifier for the XXXIII Olympic Games Paris 2024.
I had the pleasure of attending the opening ceremony for the African Games. It was really beautiful to witness all the African countries being represented. The show was also a very nice production. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to experience this.
A theme (or statement) that was repeated by the MC and within multiple speeches was “this is Africa’s time.” Emphasizing that sports and music will continue to unify Africa through these games.
This is lovely, if we are seriously committed. Seeing the NFL and NBA position themselves in Africa makes sense. But I hope we don’t stop there. I trust we don’t settle for entertainment. A unified Africa will also benefit from removal of visa and travel restrictions, exploitation policies, crabs in a bucket, economic hitmen, money laundering investments, genocide allies, and colonizer puppet strings. The money sports and music brings can move some of this. It would be nice to see more of that on the ground, instead of more talk in the air. I’m looking forward to when that does happen.
Apparently, supposedly, and allegedly, the African Games was moved from October 2023 to March 2024 for two reasons:
The sports facility was not ready yet. (A British company got the contract to build it. So, do we blame Ghana Time or something else?)
The marketing revenue or budget was not established yet. (Maybe we can blame Ghana Time for that one)
Now, the games took place in March 2024.
The sports facility was very nice. I hope and trust it is maintained and utilized well after the program.
The marketing for the program was slacking. The information for who was playing and timing was missing or posted on social media after the fact. In spite of this, I was glad to see folks taking the initiative to explore and bring the whole family to a new activity. This was a great a program for people of all ages to enjoy. Ticket were not scanned or checked when I went. Technically, I guess the games were free. I don’t know where my 150ghc went. But I release it as a good effort donation to Ghana’s economy. You’re welcome.
The timing to reschedule this program also made me wonder. Since it includes all African countries, that means some of the athletes would be fasting in March. I felt it was not fair to be fasting and performing in the heat like that. Of course, the athletes are professionals. Those who are supposed to go to the Olympics will get there regardless. But, I feel we could have been more considerate of everyone.
π¨ICYMIπ¬ππΆ: @IamKingPromise performed songs like βPerfect Combi,β βParis,β & βTerminatorβ at the Opening Ceremony of the 13th African Games in Accra, Ghana. – πΉ: @mygtvsports
I commend Ghana for pushing through to host the African Games. It was the first time and not an easy task. Now we know how to do it better next time. I feel a lot of what was reported or shared through mainstream media and WhatsApp groups was heavy on negativity. Yes, that one shoe size was incorrect. Yes, that one ambulance did not have fuel. Yes, some of the signs were printed on regular paper. Yes, ECG thought it was the perfect time to turn off the power at a stadium during a game. Ok. But, I feel none of that weighs as much or overshadows all the good that did occur.
The arrangement to host the African Games was made years in advance. Using projections that possibly were no longer viable at the time of the program. From my understanding, the funding to host the program was not available in one full sum, but dispersed periodically or in smaller amounts. Also, from what I could see, a lot of people were needed to balance this program. Which means, the main organizations in charge needed to use a variety of third parties and vendors. So, could it be possible, that some of the hiccups were not caused by “wow, look at Ghana, who can’t do anything correct,” but, instead, caused by a trickle down disfunction of communication, schedules, or payments. It is not fair to compare your first time doing something to someone else’s 80th time doing something. Even if it is a country, ministry, or corporation.
All of the athletes, teams, reporters, etc. who traveled to Ghana for the African Games were singing Ghana’s praises. They felt safe. They commended the organization. And, of course, they enjoyed Ghana’s infamous hospitality for foreigners. That deserves credit.
During the activities and ceremony I attended, the stands were full. This was not only Ghana’s elite enjoying. A variety of Ghanaians had something to experience and look forward to. Even if it was just a moment away from their daily frustrations, this should count for something.
Maybe this is a mindset thing for me. I’m not saying we should ignore the hiccups or mistakes. But, the comparisons should be inspiration or motivation. For example, the comparison competition looking at how Ivory Coast hosted the African Cup Of Nations a month before should be viewed as inspiration and motivation. There were different nuances, funding, and work ethic at play. Instead, if you need to look at competition, take note if Ghana could have hosted the African Games 10 years ago. Take note if the NFL, NBA, or other mainstream sports organizations would pay attention to Ghana 20 years ago. At the present, we believe we should be further along then we are. I agree with you on that. But, you are not standing in one place. The movement is happening. I just hope and trust we grow more clear on the direction of that movement to be more mutually beneficial.
Overall, I think the African Games in Accra was good. Next time, it will be even better.
Did you attend any of the activities? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments. I always love hearing from you.
Let’s have a different type of Detty December, shall we? I took the time to connect and search to create a schedule of events and programs that resonated with me. From panel discussions, cultural showcases, and community initiatives, I feel the time was worthwhile. As a disclaimer, some of the events were free, some I was invited to with a free ticket, and some I purchased a ticket. Compared to the last time I indulged in Ghana’s December season (in 2019), I am encouraged to see more variety in programs, events, initiatives, and people. This is something a lot of people were commenting on back in 2019 and I’m glad to see more people show up to make that happen.
Now let’s elaborate on the recap
The MoneyHub Business Summit
First, the MoneyHub Business Summit. The event was very well organized. You know how some events can be a lot of talk with no substance. This was the complete opposite. The speakers shared relatable insight and the community was like-minded in networking priorities.
Disclaimer: I was invited with a free ticket.
Here are some gems I picked up from the speakers:
Always keep learning.
For business in Ghana, focus more on private individuals for building and investments, instead of the government.
Build it first. Take your time to grow. The team and collaborations come later. You don’t need an office or aesthetics to be successful.
With your service, product, network, or mentorship: focus on how you contribute to save time and provide a good time to others.
Be vulnerable. Teach someone. Allow someone to teach you.
Journey to Womb Wealth and Wellness
Next, Journey to Womb Wealth and Wellness with Travel Deeper Inc. This session was focused on fibroids. We had insightful and impactful conversations, empowering testimonies, breath work, affirmations, and a delicious meal.
Disclaimer: I purchased my ticket.
Did you know there is advocacy happening here to raise more awareness and resources for fibroids and grow past stigma? Whether its medically, holistically, traditionally, or all the above, people are taking their power back and sharing the knowledge.
I feel really encouraged events and communitites like this are developing and taking more space here. It’s needed.
The Ladies First Hip Hop Brunch with Crescendo Foods was cool. Three lady chefs prepared a 6 course meal inspired by lady hip hop artists. We also got to jam to a lady hip hop playlist. This was a unique experience.
Wood x Watta: Afro-Caribbean Business Brunch & Art Show
This event featured multiple panel discussions, art exhibit, and networking
The main gem I picked up: We now are more knowledgeable of the data and evidence for what we are capable of, what our value is, and the limitless possibilities. We are removing the middle men and obstacles. We are doing all of this slow and steady. I really appreciated the initiative and mindset.
For example, during one of the conversations focused on real estate, I noted how the main customer base developers are relying on are Ghanaians living in the Diaspora. This developer and their team made an intentional effort to create a database for this to understand who to target their marketing and who to build for. I found this interesting because since 2019, most of the rhetoric for selling to and marketing to Diasporans have been for people who are not from Ghana. As in, making the claim that all the rising in buildings, events, and prices are due to African Americans, Caribbeans, or others coming to Ghana. On the ground, I have noted this is not the case when it comes to who is living in these new apartment buildings…even when some of them remain empty for some time. So, it was refreshing to hear developers here be honest about what the market actually is.
Additionally, it was at this event they announced the launch of the Ghanaian Jamaican Chamber of Commerce. Proving there is more being done to bridge the gap in business, culture, travel, etc between these two countries.
This woman-owned business started as a natural hair care line. With this relaunch they are expanding as a lifestyle brand with a new tea product. This event was a combination of a product launch and photography exhibit. The theme focused on self-care in a woman’s sanctuary.
These are some of the gems I picked up:
Celebrate and respect wellness practices, giving credit to the originals who invented them.
Self-care looks different for everyone. In this collaboration, the photos showcase women in their sanctuary. Community activities, like weaving together, cooking together, or dancing together, are considered self-care. or a labor of love. It is very different from meditating alone on a mountain in Narnia.
Give yourself permission to expand in every direction your heart desires. It all connects.
This was one of the most enjoyable experiences for me. It was a spectacular production. I really appreciate the initiative and intention. It was a wholesome event for all ages.
Ok, the plot. The gods request for Kwame Nkrumah to come back to life to save Africa. We see all the freedom fighters in the underworld strategize for this and one by one convince Kwame Nkrumah to accept the request and go. He comes back to life and establishes the United States of Africa. But can a leader who is selfless truly succeed?
Now, this next part does include spoilers for the play. If you don’t want to know what happens in the story yet, skip this next part, please.
Cool, right? The play had history, culture, and comedy. It also planted intentional seeds. I loved how they connected generations and interacted with the audience throughout the play. Kwame Nkrumah had an assistant, who was supposed to also be his bodyguard, who provided most of the comic relief and connected with the audience. He primarily spoke pidgin and would ask Kwame Nkrumah the questions others would feel too embarrased to ask. I thought this was very important because it shows the future and support for Ghana and it’s people is not only restricted to those who speak “big big” english.
They also had a great scene where these two characters were debating which generation had better music. So, they decided to have a competition and the audience must vote. Kwame Nkrumah sang with the band, including songs by Bob Marley and Osibisa. His assistant sang with the band, including afrobeat songs that are being played on the radio now. The audience sang along to all of it, but, of course, voted for the assistant.
Through out the story, we see Kwame Nkrumah surprised or disappointed by what he sees is happening in Ghana today. Once he established the United States of Africa, he hosts a dinner celebration and chooses to invite the Queen of England and a representative from the US. Of course, at this dinner, there is an assassination attempt and his assistant is killed. This causes Kwame Nkrumah to return to the underworld. We see him talking with the other freedom fighters. He is very upset and saddened. Noting that again, he tried to help Africa, and again they tried to kill him. Each of the freedom fighters remind him of why he is the only person out of all of them who can make the difference Africa needs. It is a really powerful and important scene as they each share the history they each contributed to.
In addition to the play, the venue was transformed with exhibits and replicas of African landmarks to take photos with. There were also camels.
For me, this was the highlight of my entire December in Ghana experience. Every detail of this production was intentional, organized, and impactful. I really loved the message. If they end up touring or coming back to Ghana, please make a point to see this and support. It is well worth it. I would see it again.
I, Dagny, DJ
Yes, it is true. I DJ. Actually, I started DJing a while ago, but this is the first time playing publicly and consistently. I share more on that story in the video below. At the moment, I am focusing on Kizomba music. I kind of see this music as another illustration of Pan-Africanism. Music from different parts of the continent and Diaspora.
I’m grateful to the social dance community in Accra who have been open to me playing at their social parties. They have been very encouraging with tips, opportunites, and equipment. It has also been fun creating my signature DJ style and introducing them to new songs, plus witness what people enjoy to dance to.
Just to think, 2 years ago (in 2021) I was introduced to Kizomba dancing in Accra by a stranger. Then, 1 year and a half later (in 2023) I’m traveling to Benin with the Kizomba community to my first dance festival. This year (in 2024), I am DJing at Kizomba parties and my name is on flyers. I’m encouraged to see how this experience continues to blossom.
If you would like to hear some of my mixes, I upload them on mixcloud. I’m also experimenting with posting videos of me practicing with different genres on Instagram (possibly later YouTube). Next, I’m interested in exploring how to produce mashups and remixes.
My final event was a Moroccan Tea Tasting with Aguma Tea. This was my first time at a tea tasting. We learned about the benefits of different herbs and created our own tea. We also sampled different teas from Morocco. It was a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon. I also loved the theme.
Overall, I enjoyed myself. Which was your favorite event? Let me know in the comments. I always love hearing from you.
So, do you want to hear about that one time I became a ninja? A few months ago, I visited China. This was my first time in Asia. The trip was awesome. I felt like I traveled to the future. We packed a lot of adventures in 9 days.
Now, before the person behind you reacts with anti-China propaganda, may I ask you to please be respectful and curious about what I’m sharing with you. Fun fact, I served as the editor for an online publication called Africans on China a few years ago. I learned a lot while editing and posting content, training African university students in editorial writing, and interviewing Africans with experience in China. It gave me a glimpse into how Africa – China relations are evolving beyond government agreements.
This trip added another layer of curiosity for me to see the room for improvement and what can be leveraged to create win-win situations. In this post, I share a recap of my trip and elaborate on my reflections about Africa-China relations.
So, let’s get into it. Shall we?
First, the trip. We started in Shenzhen.
Next, we took a trip to Guilin.
Now, back in Shenzhen.
Overall, I really enjoyed my trip. Thanks to this experience, I am still reflecting on a few things. May I share them with you?
When People Can Tell Their Own Story
I loved how history was documented and showcased in Shenzhen. Every part of their museums, parks, and exhibits are very intentional in maintaining the narrative they want for their people. History, traditions, and stories are beautifully illustrated and celebrated in a variety of story methods. Available all year round for all ages. The majority of the guests in these spaces were Chinese. As in, the focus on this documentation and showcasing is not for the foreign gaze or foreign understanding. Instead, I got the sense that all of this effort was for their own people. To reiterate to themselves what they are capable of, where they come from, what there values are, and where they are headed. I found this to be very inspiring. Like I said in the video, China and Chinese people have a lot to be proud of and excited for. The sleeping dragon is way ahead of the rest of us (if that is appropriate to say, respectfully).
This also got me thinking of how we can use similar methods to document and showcase African history, Ghana history, and Black global history. At the time of writing this, I live in Accra, Ghana. So, my examples are focused on this location to start.
Right now, Africa is navigating an era in presenting itself as a tourist destination, investment destination, and repatriation destination. In Ghana, that navigation has continued through the initiatives Year of Return and Beyond the Return. The layers of success and challenges that these initiatives faced and continue to maintain prove there is a demand for this. So, we have a lot of room to take this further. I don’t mean copy what I saw in Shenzhen. Rather, take note of how much more we can do.
For example, the exhibits I shared with you in the video show four types of methods. First, the room with simulation projection that make the guests feel as if they are walking through an ancient city. Second, the exhibit with mannequins reenacting ceremonies, traditions, and milestones. Third, the amusement park with replicas of historical cites and people dressed to represent different regions. Fourth, the talent park that celebrates talent from the city and reiterates the story and purpose behind building the city. What would something like this look like for Accra?
Possibly a room with a simulation projection that shows what Accra was like before it was named Accra and takes you through how the city changed overtime. Documenting and showcasing the tribes indigenous to this regions, the migration that took place, the ceremonies, the traditions, the colonizers influences, the development, the gentrification, the milestones, etc.
Possibly an exhibit with mannequins reenacting the ceremonies and traditions that represent Accra. This actually reminds me of a play I saw last year at the National Theater in Accra. At the moment I forget the name, but the plot was Anansi as a person traveled to every region of Ghana tricking everyone. In the play, Accra was represented with a boxing match, where Anansi again tricked everyone to win. It was a beautiful display of Ghana’s culture. Could we translate that into an exhibit that is available all year? And add a live show within the exhibit every week? Or everyday as demand grows.
Possibly a talent park or garden that showcases people who contributed to Ghana in all sectors and industries. This reminds me of my visit to the newly renovated Kwame Nkrumah museum. Part of the exhibit there lists all the initiatives, industries, and infrastructure he created during his administration. To give that exhibit more substance…hear me out. Each of those initiatives could include showcasing the people who were involved, the story behind how they got it up and running, and who was responsible for shutting it down and why. In addition, this possible talent park can include statues and plaques reiterating what Ghanaians are capable of, what their values are, and where they are headed, including ancient history and modern history.
I know the amusement park might be a little too far ahead to think of right now, but we should still see it as a possibility.
Again, the intention behind all of these is for the enjoyment and enlightenment for domestic tourism as well as international tourism. Things like this should be available throughout the year for local school field trips, national holidays, etc. This is for Ghanaians to be the expert on their own history and values. This is for those who choose to live in Ghana to be aware of history and values. This is for intercontinental and international tourists to acknowledge history and values. Thus, the “Ghana narrative” is solid.
These are only suggestions. Please adapt and implement what resonates with you.
Where In This Galaxy Can Others Have A Futuristic City Of Their Own
As I mentioned in the video, Shenzhen is about 10 years old. This is a very young city. This is part of why I felt like I had traveled to the future. It was really inspiring to witness how a city can be built to accommodate and account for everyones needs. The level of convenience, security, residential options, commercial options, job opportunities, logistics, transportation, etc. was very impressive.
Actually, this also reminded me of the book The City We Became by N. K. Jemisin. In that book, cities are like living organisms that have an avatar to represent them as they develop. New York City has a new avatar, and all the avatars that represent the different boroughs must help the new one fight against the virus that wants to stop the city from developing. It was a really clever and creative story. If you like fantasy like that, I recommend it. She is one of my favorite authors. Ok, I digress. Keep focused.
Experiencing such a futuristic city got me thinking of where in this galaxy can other people have such a thing of their own. My frame of reference is Afrofuturism, but I also would love to see all groups get to experience this for themselves too. What would a new city look like in Africa, South America, the Middle East, other parts of Asia, the Caribbean, etc? A new city that genuinely serves the needs of the people and is culturally in-tune.
For Black people, I’m not sure if we have that yet. There are populations of Black people living comfortably all over the world, but still balancing nuances that do not always serve them. For a long time, we have been drumming the beat that Africa should be where those new cities should be. Are we truly developing in that direction?
In Ghana’s case, there is room to build a new city. I’m not sure if you can do that with Accra, since you continue to develop without city-planning or zoning. This would also cause too much displacement. For example, Shenzhen was a fishing town. They moved the people who were living there to temporary accommodations and provided incentives to build the new city together. Could we do that in another part of Ghana? I know I am not the first to think this. I am sure others have already designed the blueprint for this. But this new city needs to be a complete city. Not only a residential area for a select few who can afford it. Not only an isolated structure with no good road to get to it. Instead, it would be a city that has no slum, because everyone is served and accounted for. It would be a city with trees that are protected. It would be a city that is clean and safe. It would be a city with maximum wages, because the minimum wage system is obviously disrespectful. Can you imagine how cool that would be?
Then we can make this metro idea a reality. I came across this on Twitter and thought it was fabulous.
This right here! Love it. We are speaking it into existence. ππΎπͺπΎπ https://t.co/OMrK99b977
Again, these are suggestions. The way Shenzhen is set up, their government views these types of things as a priority. In Ghana, there is an interesting dynamic with the government sector, private sector, extractive sector, and exploitive sector. I say this respectfully.
Why Africa-China Relations Need To Develop Beyond Agreements And Propaganda
Finally, in the video I shared examples of the gap I am seeing with the potential within Africa-China relations winning. First, with my very unpleasant experience with my passengers on my Ethiopian Airlines flight from Accra to Addis Abba to Shanghai. Second, with the Galamsey issue in Ghana. With both, I note a stark difference between the people’s behavior and construction methods.
I feel there are possibilities to create a win-win situation for all involved in this. For instance, the way China maintains its autonomy and holds itself as a priority in international interactions is something Ghana and other African countries could implement and benefit from. I’m not going to get too much into what type of government you should follow, but looking at what I experienced on this trip, it seems like you need more than 4 years to get real things done. But that is neither here, nor there, nor everywhere, nor anywhere, nor all at once.
If you do not respect your own country or people, it can be difficult to insist others should do the opposite. It is not enough to point figures at foreigners or push Western anti-China propaganda about this. The issues that Chinese traders and miners face and facilitate in Ghana could be prevented. From undercutting the fish and goods market to destroying the environment through gold mining on one side to being scammed and harmed on the other side. Is it surprising that some Ghanaians view all Chinese people in their country through the prism of illegal activities, mafia affiliations, and the “new colonization”? I’m not endorsing any of these perspectives and I do not mean any harm. We all deserve better.
I believe the way you do anything is the way you do everything. Because the way you do everything is the way you do anything. From what I am seeing, within Africa-China relations, China is very intentional about what their role is. Same in the way they are very intentional about everything. It is very important for African countries to get intentional with their role. This can be equally beneficial. From my perspective, a thriving African country is good business for China. This has not been the case for Western relations with Africa. There are already examples of this with Chinese trade, distribution, and education in Ghana that has been good and beneficial. You already have a growing number of Ghanaians who are fluent in Mandarin, have lived or studied in China, and want to see Ghana do better. You already have Ghanaian banks setting up better systems to facilitate trade between Ghana and China. So, there is no excuse to continue destroying the environment for mining, disrespecting or harming people, or flooding markets with cheap goods. You are already being set up to win. Are you willing to be who you need to be to win? Like I said in the video, I hold both sides responsible for this solution.
Thank you for taking the time to share in this experience with me and be open to my insight. I hope and trust you found this helpful and fun. As always, I love hearing from you. Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Let’s continue the conversation.
Where in the world is Carmen San Diego? Or, in this case, where in the world is Curious and Cultured? As you might know, we live and work away from the country we were raised in. Dagny is in Ghana and Damali is in China. We have had a lot of adventures.
In this episode, we share our experience navigating different cultures, expectations, and life while living abroad.
Let us know what you think of the episode.
Listen on Spotify. Also streaming on Afripods, Apple, Google, and Pocketcast.
A peaceful protest occurred in Accra a few weeks ago. It lasted for 3 days. It went differently then what was expected. Several protests have occurred afterwards by different groups. You may or may not have heard about it. This got me thinking about how we all can show up more for the solution.
The initial peaceful protest was focused on economic hardships in Ghana. Becoming a space for Ghanaians to speak out on their frustrations. It was unfortunately met with disrespect and violence from Ghana’s police following “orders.” The local newspapers did not report on the incident, as if it did not happen.
Please don’t give up. This shows you have a voice. Your concerns are valid. You demonstrated something monumental.
I’m always encouraging you on here to think for yourself. This is a great opportunity to do that. Please know that I do not mean any disrespect or harm. I feel this is a chance to be open to learning and understanding.
To learn more about the demands and progress of the Occupy Julorbi House movement, click here.
I hear some of you. Why protest? What difference did it make? True. This needs to continue to be strategic. The demonstration was a success because you showed up and took up space. Next, to play the next level of this game, you need to understand that pulling heartstrings will not give you the justice you deserve. Complaining that your leaders and elite don’t care is a waste of your energy. Leaders who do not have a solid team and do care about their people are assassinated or silenced. You know this too well.
As funny and sad as the tweets are, it can be tricky to boycott businesses you are not a regular customer for. So, be smarter with your big hearts. I know you already watched House of Cards and read The Spook Who Sat By The Door. In other parts of the world, lobbyists are the next play in this game. How can that be implemented here? Private enterprises hold a lot behind that. Could that sufficiently translate here?
Iβve had people ask me so what next after the protest. And nothing will change after this protest so why waste time. Ghana wonβt get better after one protest or even two. But we have to start from somewhere and let our leaders know theyβre here to serve us and make things better,β¦
I’m aware my community on here is diverse. So, I trust we can cover all angles on this collaboration. Reflect on it. No need to post the blueprint here. This should be part of the reason why so many different people are in and continue to move to Ghana. We all need to be including provisions to this solution in what we are cultivating here.
Not to dismiss anyone’s initiative, but what is the point of all this healing and investing if we are not closing the gap on these discrepancies? What good is all of your real estate potential, tourism attractions, economic summits, trade expos, academic seminars, viral dance videos, and Detty December Citizens if the location is this hostile to the basic well being of its people? What is the point of the wide spectrum of passport privilege, currency privilege, tribal privilege, and family name privilege that exists here, if we are not leveraging it for collective winning?
Ghanaians donβt want hand outs, we simply want an enabling environment to do business, earn an honest living and thrive. Ghanaians want to live and die in dignity. weβre not asking for much #OccupyJulorbiHouse
you should know that many of our diasporan brothers and sisters love that the exchange rate gives them a sense of more wealth in ghana. to feel like they belong to an elite class once home creates a feeling of superiority.
I know these are only words. I know I can’t call the Avengers to help. I did mention this to Wakanda, but they are busy swimming at the moment.
Within a year of moving to Ghana, my beacon of hope for all forms of freedom, Pan-Africanism, Black liberation, World equality, and collective healing evolution faded. Seeing what you did at this initial protest reignited that beacon of hope for me. The way you all committed to your mission for peace and took care of each other. In spite of being so despicably disrespected and hurt. You did not bend down to “their” level. I hope you understand the magnitude of this. You should be proud.
At the moment, neighboring countries have resorted to military coups to voice their frustrations. I’m cheering for their justice too. I hope and trust they have a plan beyond pushing out the bully. I understand Ghana already did this and today some are still questioning whether or not that provided the progress you deserve. These protests show you don’t need to repeat that. You can lead by example with a different method.
At the moment, the only reliable account of the inital protest is this special episode of the Sincerely Accra podcast. Listen well. Also check out their Twitter Space on that day.
To continue to be up to date on conversations and progress, check out Julorbi Radio below.
As always, the question is “what next?” Here is a tool to explore: the Social Change Ecosystem Map. This can help you gain more insight on where your values and gifts can contribute to social change.
So, my fellow diasporans who ask why Ghanaians “are not angry enough.” Do you now see the cards they are dealt? The police were equipped for war against citizens holding placards. The local media under reported or did not report at all. Some people’s jobs were threatened if they participated. The puppet strings are more complex then you may realize.
Now, my fellow Ghanaians, regardless of which bubble you exist in, please don’t give up on Ghana. Be wise, disciplined, and strategic. Be peaceful and responsible. Avoid distractions and detours. You deserve justice. You deserve more.
To everyone who was involved in-person, virtually, and/or in spirit, please take care and be safe.
Dagny Zenovia 