“We must emancipate ourselves from mental slavery, because while others might free the body, none but ourselves can free the mind”

Words made popular by the legendary Bob Marley in his hit song “Redemption Song“, but it was Marcus Mosiah Garvey, who created these famous words in 1937.

Garvey stressed the philosophy of “African Fundamentalism” in which he called for a new “Negro Spirit“, for the building of a common experience of black people as the foundation of a strong and healthy nation.

If we as a people are to emancipate ourselves from mental slavery, we must first establish a new sense of self and engage in a critical transformation of the mind.

Emancipation Day should be an opportunity to evaluate, how far we have come since our forefathers were freed from of slavery 168 years ago. But most importantly, this is the time for us to consider how far we have to go as a people – from slavery to complete freedom.

Now is the time for us “emancipate ourselves from mental slavery” and realize that “none but ourselves can free our minds“.

Happy African Liberation Day 2009

Here is a short clip from the African Liberation March through the streets of Roseau, Dominica.

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Every 25th May marks the celebration of African Liberation day around the world. Just as every year the Rastafarian community has scheduled events and activities to honor all the African leaders and political activists who attended the first Conference of Independent African States. It was attended by representatives of the governments of Ethiopia, Ghana, Liberia, Libya, Morocco, Sudan, Tunisia, The United Arab Republic (which was the federation of Egypt and Syria) and representatives of the National Liberation Front of Algeria and the Union of Cameroonian Peoples.

This conference was significant in that it represented the first Pan-African Conference held on African soil. It was also significant in that it represented the collective expression of African People’s disgust with the system of colonialism and imperialism, which brought so much suffering to African People. Further, it represented the collective will to see the system of colonialism permanently done away with.

One of the many Activities organized is the annual African Liberation March through the streets of Roseau and will conclude at the Harlem Plaza with a closing ceremony. One of the other activities to mark the week leading up to African Liberation Day is an art exhibition, where a few of the local Dominican Artists display their work alongside African literature, heroes, and traditions. Below are some highlight photos taken from the exhibition…Enjoy ❗

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• Rastas Call For Total Liberation
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