…As Manitoba Government Marks Black History Month
A 13-year old Nigerian-Canadian, Olufisayo Bakenne has joined his fellow youths in calling on the world leaders to utilise part of the Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which proclaims that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and that everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set out therein, without distinction of any kind, in particular as to race, colour or national origin.
The UN should also consider that all human beings are equal before the law and are entitled to equal protection of the law against any discrimination whatsoever and against any incitement to discrimination.
Bakenne joined other speakers at a Black History Month event held at the Rotunda of the Manitoba Legislative Building, Canada expressing hope that young people like him should be free from all forms of discrimination and agitated for equality of man irrespective of race, colour, sex, language or religion.
Several people participated in the NDP government-organised event, which featured lectures and dance by prominent Black leaders in the Province, including the Minister of Economic Development, Jamie Moses, Health Minister, Uzoma Asagwara and Winnipeg Councillor, Markus Chambers.
‘‘As a 13 year-old African youth, I’ve observed racism displayed around me. But wouldn’t it be great if the next generation of Black youth in Winnipeg didn’t ever experience racism and discrimination in their lives?
I hope we can all live happily together and express ourselves as valuable members of this community that make a positive impact in our world. We can all surely work together to make that change’’, said Bakenne who is a youth leader in Manitoba.
The Black History Month in Manitoba, which started as a mere a mere events in 2007 has metamorphosed into a robust calendar of over 40 events throughout the year by the Black History Manitoba.
Established in 1981, this organisation has persistently broadened its objective to illuminate the contributions, challenges and accomplishments of African Americans in Manitoba and other regions.
Bakenne added that ‘‘It’s not just a month to recognise and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black people throughout history, but also to educate the current and next generation about Black History.
I want to remind everyone that while we celebrate it in February, Black History is something we should reflect on all year round. It’s very important to educate others about the failures and celebrate past victories as well’’.
The optimism articulated by youthful orators such as Olufisayo Bakenne serves as a guiding light towards a society that is both equal and introspective, as long as Manitoba persists in celebrating its variety.
