This week has been incredibly busy, and I want to begin by extending my deepest gratitude and heartfelt *Boku Tenki* (“Many Thanks” in Krio) for all the unwavering support we’ve received. We truly could not accomplish our mission without each and every one of you. 🙏🏿 ♥️🙏🏿
Just hours ago, we returned from the Drums of Mosiah event, where we honored the life and legacy of the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey on the occasion of his 137th birthday. This celebration took place in collaboration with devoted Garveyites and divisions from across the world, including Sierra Leone, Ghana, the United States (Philadelphia, PA, Buffalo, NY, and my hometown of Chicago, Illinois), and the United Kingdom. The parent body is hosting this year’s convention in Chicago, and the collective effort behind this global acknowledgment of Garvey’s enduring influence was remarkable.
Though I’m feeling the effects of exhaustion 😩—having stayed up late and risen early for the event over the past two days—I can confidently say that the experience was well worth it.
Event Reflections
The Drums of Mosiah Event exceeded expectations. Given that we are in the midst of the rainy season here in Sierra Leone, I was apprehensive about attendance. August often brings heavy and unrelenting rainfall, and despite our extensive promotional efforts, I wasn’t certain if people would come. Thankfully, we had a wonderful turnout. While the event began with a few empty seats, soon after, the room filled with beautiful faces, reflecting the vibrant diversity of Africa. As many of us know, “CP Time” (or *Black Man Time*) operates no matter where we are in the world, and this occasion was no different.
The entire atmosphere was electric, and I had the special honor of reconnecting with Elder Baba Charles Lloyd, our Gullah Geechee Garveyite and a repatriate to Sierra Leone, whom I hadn’t seen in years. Baba Lloyd traveled all the way from Bo City to present a symbolic gift from the Parent Body in Washington, D.C., to our newly appointed 3rd Assistant President General, Mansa Foday Ajamu. This beautiful RBG (Red, Black, and Green) sash, intricately woven in Ghana 🇬🇭, was a poignant gesture of unity and respect for Garvey’s vision.
Event Highlights
The event featured the powerful rhythms of the 12 Tribes of Israel, who drummed, sang, and chanted in celebration. A young girl delivered a moving poem, followed by an inspiring performance by respected Elder Rasta Iola. These moments, along with the speeches honoring Marcus Garvey on his 137th birthday, truly uplifted the spirit of the occasion and reaffirmed the importance of his legacy in Africa.
The gathering of conscious Garveyites was not only a privilege at the high table but also a source of valuable discourse among the audience. Together, we explored ideas on how to move beyond our differences and work collaboratively to further Garvey’s principles of self-sufficiency, collective economics, and the empowerment of youth. The energy throughout the event was tangible, and during my closing remarks, I found myself nearly moved to tears as I reflected on the profound significance of Garvey’s contributions to African people worldwide.
Looking Ahead
As we continue this vital work, I am filled with hope and determination for the future of Garveyism. The path ahead may be challenging, but with unity and purpose, we will carry Garvey’s legacy forward.
#OneGod #OneAim #OneDestiny #OneAfrica
#GarveyLives #RaceFirst
♥️🖤💚