Nigeria recently marked its 63rd Independence Day from the UK on 01/10/2023. While this day is always celebrated as a national holiday, the celebrations were rather muted among Nigerians in the diaspora. This is in stark contrast to the often elaborate large-scale events of the past filled with traditional music, dance, and food.
How do other African immigrants celebrate their independence days in the diaspora? This is a question that has intrigued me for a long time, as I have observed the different ways that people from various African countries mark the anniversary of their liberation from colonial rule. These celebrations were seen as a way for them to connect with their roots and show pride in their heritage.
However, over time, there has been a noticeable shift in tradition. As African immigrant communities become more integrated into their adopted countries, the way they celebrate Independence Day has evolved. One of the main trends that I have noticed is that there is a generational gap in how African immigrants view and celebrate their independence days. The older generation tends to have a stronger sense of attachment and pride to their national identity and history.
On the other hand, the younger generation tends to be more open-minded and cosmopolitan in their outlook. This younger generation, who were either born or raised in the diaspora, tend to have a more ambivalent or indifferent attitude towards their independence days. They may not feel a strong connection or loyalty to their ancestral countries, especially if they have never visited or lived there.
Furthermore, many African immigrants have adopted a more global perspective and are less concerned with nationalist sentiments. They may see Independence Day as a symbolic occasion that celebrates the achievements of their people, rather than marking an individual’s national identity. They may also perceive their independence days as irrelevant or outdated, given the current political and economic challenges that many African countries face.
Another trend that I have observed is that there is a diversity of perspectives and experiences among African immigrants from different countries and regions. This often leads to different forms of expression and representation of their national identity and culture in the diaspora. Some countries, such as Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, or Ethiopia, have more established and visible diaspora communities than others, and thus have more resources and opportunities to organize and celebrate their independence days.
Some countries, such as South Africa, Rwanda, or Eritrea, have more recent or complex histories of independence than others, and thus have more nuanced or contested meanings and memories of their independence days. Some countries, such as Somalia, Sudan, or Libya, have ongoing conflicts or crises that affect their independence days and their diaspora communities. Nonetheless, Independence Day celebrations provide an opportunity for immigrants to showcase their culture, heritage, and identity in their host countries, generate income, and promote their businesses, products, and services.
Immigrants can profit from organizing cultural festivals or fairs that highlight the diversity and richness of their homeland, create and sell merchandise featuring their national symbols, and offer educational sessions that teach about their history, politics, culture, and language. They can also provide professional services catering to the needs and preferences of fellow immigrants or the local community, such as consulting, coaching, mentoring, tutoring, translation, and interpretation.
Collaborating with other immigrant entrepreneurs or organizations that share their vision and values can also be beneficial, as they can create networks, alliances, and coalitions that support each other’s goals and interests. This can lead to the creation of networks, alliances, and co-hosting or co-sponsoring events, projects, and campaigns that benefit both parties.
In conclusion, I have found that the attitude of African immigrants towards Independence Day celebrations in the diaspora has changed over the years, depending on various factors such as generation, country of origin, and current context. I have also found that these celebrations are not only a way of honouring the past, but also a way of shaping the present and future of the African diaspora community. They are an opportunity to celebrate diversity, foster unity, promote dialogue, and create awareness among ourselves and others.
How did you celebrate your Independence Day? Share your thoughts below.