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In the heart of Montgomery County, a remarkable tradition continues to thrive, celebrating the vibrant African community and its journey towards equity, liberty, and justice for all. The Montgomery County African Affairs Advisory Group (AAAG) has been at the forefront of fostering connections and advocating for the needs and concerns of African immigrants living and working in the county. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the African Heritage Month Proclamation, a milestone that underscores the county’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and community empowerment. Let’s delve into the details of this significant event and the insightful panel discussion that took place during the celebration.
African Heritage Month Proclamation Celebration
Every year, the AAAG hosts the African Heritage Month proclamation celebration and related activities. This year, the community came together to commemorate the 15th anniversary of this important occasion. Montgomery County holds the distinction of being the first in the nation to proclaim September as African Heritage Month. The event, scheduled for Tuesday, September 5, 2023, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM, took place at the Civic Center in Silver Spring.
The celebration brought together members of the African community and allies from across Montgomery County. These individuals share a common goal: supporting the mission of the advisory group, promoting diversity within the county, and advancing economic growth and opportunities for the African community and diaspora. The proclamation serves as the opening ceremony for a month of festivities and celebrations throughout September.
The Transformative Panel Discussion
A highlight of this year’s African Heritage Month Proclamation Celebration was a thought-provoking panel discussion. The panel featured a diverse mix of original members of the advisory group and young adults from Montgomery County. Their collective purpose was to illuminate the transformation of the African community in Montgomery County, drawing on the insights of the original advisory group members and capturing the perspectives of the youth and young adults.
The panel discussion was divided into several subcategories, including introduction, economic development, health, education, community service/civic engagement, and looking towards the future. These topics allowed panelists to reflect on the progress made by the African community in Montgomery County, the challenges faced, and the vision for the next five to ten years. It provided a platform for both generations to engage in meaningful dialogue and share their aspirations for the future.
Diverse Panelists with Inspiring Insights
The panel discussion featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, each bringing a unique perspective and valuable insights to the conversation:
- Remi Duyile: Founder, Legacy Premier Foundation, Principal, Image Consulting Group, and Original Member of AAAG.
- Ivo Tasong: Co-founder of AttivaSoft and Original Member of AAAG.
- Jewru Bandeh: Regional Director of the Montgomery County Eastern Regional Office, serving as the County’s representative and liaison, connecting residents, businesses, and County Government in the region.
- Kadmiel Van Der Puije: CEO, Voice of Africa, who added a global perspective to the discussion.
- Keyna Aniyam: Board Member, Board of Elections, and Community Engagement Manager with Reading Partners, providing valuable insights into community engagement.
- Yoseph Zerihun: Senior at Springbrook High School, MCPS, and 2023 SMOB Candidate, representing the youth’s voice and aspirations.
Influential Figures in Attendance
The African Heritage Month Proclamation Celebration saw the participation of key figures who have been instrumental in supporting the African community in Montgomery County. Marc Elrich, Executive of Montgomery County, Maryland, was in attendance, demonstrating the county’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. U.S. Representative David Trone from Maryland and Councilmember Will Jawando also graced the occasion, further underscoring their support for the community’s mission.
Looking Forward
As the 15th anniversary of the African Heritage Month Proclamation celebration unfolded, it was a testament to the resilience and achievements of the African community in Montgomery County. The event not only celebrated the past but also looked towards a future of continued growth, progress, and empowerment.
Panelist questions were provided to the participants in advance, allowing them to reflect on their responses ahead of the event. The insights shared during this discussion will undoubtedly contribute to shaping the future of the African community in Montgomery County.
Conclusion
The African Heritage Month Proclamation celebration in Montgomery County is more than just an event; it’s a symbol of unity, progress, and the pursuit of a brighter future. It highlights the remarkable contributions of the African community and provides a platform for intergenerational dialogue and empowerment. As the celebrations continue throughout September, Montgomery County stands as a shining example of how diversity and unity can lead to equity, liberty, and justice for all.
