On February 9, 2019, Ambassador Stephanie S. Sullivan joined the African American Association of Ghana (AAAG) at the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Center in Accra to launch AAAG Black History Month programming. For its first program, AAAG highlighted excellent presentations on the theme “Black Migration: Exploring Our Roots and Beyond.”
During the launch, Ambassador Sullivan spoke about the 115th U.S. Congress Commission Act commemorating “400 Years of African-American History” signifying the anniversary of the forced arrival of Africans to Virginia in 1619.
She commended President Akufo-Addo for designating 2019 the “Year of Return” inviting people of African descent from the Americas to Ghana and Africa. The Ambassador also underscored the long relationship and strong ties between both our nations, as well as the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, AAAG, and the Ghanaian community. “I want to offer the African American community present today as well as all those living, working, and studying throughout Ghana my deep respect and appreciation for all that you do each day serving as ambassadors of goodwill. I look forward to working with you during my tenure here, and thank you for your continued partnership and for the invitation to launch this year’s Black History Month,” she said.
Several dignitaries spoke including the Director of Diaspora Affairs from the Office of the President who talked about the importance of Ghanaian Americans and diasporas worldwide of Ghanaian heritage returning to Ghana and contributing to intellectual and financial investment in the country. The CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority spoke about the Year of Return Committee who is partnering on programs and events throughout the year with public and private institutions. The launch concluded with a business expo highlighting small and medium businesses lead by the diaspora community.
