NATIONAL BLACK UNITED FRONT HOSTS AFRIKAN LIBERATION DAY

May 22, 2010 Milwaukee, WI – The Milwaukee Chapter of the National Black United Front (NBUF) hosted its annual Afrikan Liberation Day (ALD) celebration. The program was opened up with the pouring of libation, to all the known and unknown people that have sacrificed their lives on behalf of Afrikan people by Brother Oshi Adelabu, the chairperson of the Milwaukee Chapter. As the program continued, standing strong and proud, the audience recited powerfully the United Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) pledge to the Black Liberation Flag and Colors, the Red, the Black and the Green. Next the celebrations participants collectively sang a beautiful rendition of the Black National Anthem “Lift Every Voice & Sing.”

Presented by Brother Leander Burks, who was accompanied by his daughter and niece, a brief history of ALD was read. Brother Salim Adofo, Vice Chairperson of Organizing and Training of NBUF, read an ALD solidarity statement by Political Prisoner of War Sundiata Acoli. Brother Sundiata, thanked his NBUF comrades for all their support through writing the NJ parole board, requesting his release for over 36 of false imprisonment. Brother Sundiata stated that Afrikan people must still continue to organize to gain control of the land that rightfully belongs to Afrikan people.

A very insightful and educational part of the celebration, was the student panel titled “From Malcolm X to Jay-Z: Black Nationalism & the Hip Hop Generation.” Facilitated by Brother Salim Adofo, participants on the panel included Anton House, President of the Black Student Union of the University of Wisconsin (Park Side), Lavette Love of the organization Hip Hop Scholars. Jewell Carter of the organization Urban Deversion and Brother Oshi Adelabu were on the panel as well. Touching on many

topics the intergenerational audience and panel came to a consensus that in order for Afrikan people to move forward, Afrikan people must build and control their own institutions. A second point that was agreed upon was that Hip Hop when used properly, can be a tool of liberation for Afrikan people. However, for that to happen, the Hip Hop generation needs consistent mentorship from the leadership of the Black Nationalist community.

The program concluded with an exciting and energetic ALD Hip Hop Showcase hosted by the “Firey Phoenix” LaShandra Vernon. Through dance, spoken word & rap, local artists such as Viva Fidel, Urban Deversion, University of Wisconsin student Ashley Moore and others provided “edutainment” (educational entertainment), that kept the crowd motivated and focused on the liberation of Afrikan people.

Brother Salim Adofo

Vice Chairperson Organizing & Training

National Black United Front (NBUF)