Eric Weng’s Post

Western civilization on African societies and the need for a return to #Afrocentrism. Dot Bekker's insights highlight a critical issue: the disconnection from land and nature, which has historically been a cornerstone of many African cultures. This disconnection has been exacerbated by the allure of material wealth and urban living, often seen as markers of success in a capitalist framework. #Matrix The idea that cities function as "concentration camps" for material aspiration is a powerful metaphor. It underscores how urbanization and the pursuit of material wealth can lead to a loss of cultural identity and a disconnection from the land, which is vital for sustainable living and spiritual well-being. #Ubuntu Historically, African civilizations have indeed placed a strong emphasis on the land, not just as a resource for survival but as a sacred trust to be nurtured and protected. The communal distribution of land ensured that families could sustain themselves and maintain a connection to their heritage and environment. This contrasts sharply with the individualistic and often exploitative nature of land use in capitalist societies. The call for #Afrocentric education is crucial. It aims to reframe African history, culture, and values from an African perspective, rather than through the lens of colonialism. This educational shift can help restore pride in African heritage and promote sustainable practices that are in harmony with nature. The notion of being "negropean" versus African speaks to the internalized colonial mindset that values Western norms and achievements over indigenous ones. Reclaiming an #Afrocentric identity involves recognizing and valuing the wisdom and practices that have sustained African societies for generations. In summary, Dot Bekker's message is a call to action for Africans to reconnect with their roots, value their land, and embrace an education system that reflects their history and values. By doing so, there is potential to foster a more sustainable and spiritually fulfilling way of life that honors the legacy of African ancestors and the natural world. None Africans know who we are, But Africans don't know who they are. May be it will take a none indigenous African to drive the message home. #Oladelesthoughts #Africa #Alkebulan #Afrocentrism #Africadiaspora #MindsetMatters #Theafricawewant #MindsetChangers #AlkebulanAwakening #AlkebulanRenaissance

I would think that a "Billionaire" such as Tony Elumelu would be more educated on History than this. Especially the history of colonization. What an offensive and ignorant statement: "America was colonized too and look at where they are'". It is very problematic for several reasons: 1. Misinterpretation of 'Colonization': The title erroneously equates the European settlement of North America with the colonization of Africa. In North America, European settlers invaded and displaced Indigenous peoples, establishing settler colonies. In contrast, Africa was colonized by external powers who subjugated existing populations. 2. Overlooking Historical Atrocities: The European conquest of the Americas involved systematic genocide and displacement of Indigenous peoples. This history is distinct from African colonization, where European powers sought to dominate and exploit existing populations rather than replace them entirely. 3. Ignoring Power Dynamics: The phrase "look at where they are" misleadingly implies that the outcomes of European settlement in North America are comparable to those of African colonization. This overlooks how the success of settler-colonial states like the United States was built on the destruction of Indigenous societies and exploitation of enslaved Africans, while African nations were systematically underdeveloped by colonial powers. 4. Misunderstanding Historical Consequences: The title fails to acknowledge the long-term impacts of different forms of colonization. African colonization disrupted social structures and imposed foreign governance systems, leading to lasting negative impacts. In North America, European settlers established systems benefiting themselves at the expense of Indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans. 5. Ethical Concerns: It's ethically questionable to suggest the United States, built on the near-destruction of Indigenous peoples, as a model for African development. This ignores the moral cost of such a trajectory and disregards Africa's right to develop in ways that honor its own cultures and histories. This article title is both historically inaccurate and insensitive. It conflates distinct historical processes and implies a false equivalence between settler colonialism in North America and the exploitation of Africa. A more balanced and better informed approach would recognize the unique challenges and histories of different regions, avoiding simplistic comparisons. #HistoryMatters #RespectIndigenousPeoples #Colonialism #AfricanHistory #IndigenousRights #HistoricalContext #Decolonization #SocialJustice #CulturalSensitivity #EthicalNarratives

Indigenous Liberation Day: A Global Reflection Today we honor Indigenous Liberation Day, a moment to reflect on the first inhabitants of our world—not just in North and South America, but across continents. Indigenous people are the carriers of ancient knowledge, deeply connected to the land long before the world knew of borders or conquest. It is here that Africa, the cradle of humankind, takes the lead in the human journey. The African continent gave birth to the explosion of human migration, an expansion of life that spread across the world. Africans were not just "first" in this migratory sense but were the bearers of life itself, lighting the torch for humanity’s collective journey. In this light, the word "indigenous" transforms into something far deeper—an ancient heritage woven into the very soil of the earth. Yet, colonialism would strip all indigenous peoples of their lands, cultures, and autonomy. Columbus’ arrival in 1492 marked the beginning of the trans-Atlantic human trade, but the exploitation of Africans had already begun in Spain and Portugal after the defeat of the Moors. (Africans with Islamic heritage) Indigenous communities worldwide have since endured centuries of erasure, yet they stand resilient. To be indigenous today is to embody the legacy of survival and the fight for liberation. These people are not just symbols of the past—they hold the wisdom needed for our future. Their ways of living in harmony with nature and community are vital lessons that modern society must embrace. This day reminds us that colonial and imperialistic structures continue to affect us all, but it is the indigenous peoples who carry the deepest scars. True liberation will only come when we dismantle these systems and honor the dignity of all. Let us listen, let us learn, and let us join in the ongoing fight for justice. Below a video of Suriname, a country I am native too, as well as once transported to, as I am the living proof of my #ANKHCESTORY (stories of our ankhcestors ☥)

Imagine stepping into a world where history whispers from every corner. A Kenyan parliamentary delegation did just that at the Cambridge University Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. Their eyes set on a treasure trove of nearly eighteen hundred Kenyan artefacts, each telling a story of heritage, power, and resilience. From the digital archives showcasing the rich cultures of Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, to the tangible legacies of Easter Island, snatched by Captain Cook himself, this journey is more than a simple visit. It's a deep dive into a past where treasures were taken, not shared, and a stark reminder of the journeys our ancestors embarked upon. Among these, a Maasai garment made from cheetah skin stands out – a testament to strength, speed, and stealth. Yet, it represents more. It symbolises the complex narratives of cultural identity, colonial history, and the ongoing conversations around restitution and respect. Let's reflect on the significance of preserving and honouring our global heritage. How do we navigate the ethical considerations of artefact repatriation? Share your thoughts below. #BandungAfrica #GADF #AfricanDiaspora #SocialJustice #Empowerment #PanAfricanism #GlobalImpact #StrategicLitigation #Reparations #SystemicChange #Advocacy #Leadership #CommunityBuilding #SustainableDevelopment #EconomicJustice #Equality #Inclusion #Activism #ThoughtLeadership #EventPromotion @yetundeasika @donaldpeterherbert @theimperativefund @mr.adeoguntoye

Reclaiming Identity: The Necessity of Renaming African Nations In today's world, the names of many African countries still reflect their colonial pasts, serving as lingering reminders of a time when their cultures and identities were overshadowed by foreign domination. It's time for a change. Countries like Nigeria and Niger, with names given by colonial powers, should consider renaming themselves to reflect their true heritage and identity. Changing these names is not just a symbolic act; it is a powerful statement of self-determination and cultural pride. For instance, nations like Ghana (formerly the Gold Coast) and Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) have successfully shed their colonial names, embracing titles that resonate with their indigenous histories and cultural significance. This movement towards decolonization through renaming can foster a renewed sense of national pride and unity. It represents a break from the past and an embrace of a future where African countries define themselves on their own terms. #ReclaimIdentity #DecolonizeNow #AfricanPride #NewBeginnings #UnitedAfrica #CulturalRevival #HistoricalJustice #RenameNigeria #RenameNiger

A Call to Healing and Unity for The African Diaspora: Are We in the Midst of a Great Exodus? (Part 3) 🌍 Are we in the midst of a Great Exodus? 🌍 The war against the system of oppression has raged for centuries, and it’s no wonder that many in the newer generations have chosen different narratives for themselves. 🔮 Some of our ancestral bloodlines may wish for nothing more than to rest and heal from the trauma of centuries of subjugation. But even so, many of us are rising up with renewed vigor and resilience to break the chains that still bind us. In this new age, what can we do to dismantle the architecture of oppression? 💡 We can begin by recognizing the power of unity—across borders, cultures, and languages. The divide-and-conquer tactics employed by colonial powers still reverberate today, but collective healing is possible when we rise together as one. ✊🏾 💡 We can work toward economic independence by supporting African businesses, entrepreneurs, and creatives—both on the continent and throughout the diaspora. 🌍 💡 We can continue the spiritual and cultural reclamation that has already begun, reconnecting with indigenous knowledge and practices that restore our self-worth and remind us of our divine origins. 🌿 💡 We can focus on educating the next generation, ensuring that they know the true history of Africa and are equipped to challenge the narratives that seek to diminish our greatness. 📚 📢 The Great Exodus may not be a physical departure, but it’s a spiritual journey toward liberation. The time for healing is now. The time for unity is now. 🌍✨ Let’s keep this conversation alive—what does liberation look like to you? Comment below! ⬇️ #AfricanUnity #GreatExodus #SpiritualHealing #EconomicIndependence #DecolonizeEducation #AfricanExcellence #BlackLiberation #GlobalAfrica #CulturalReclamation #CollectiveHealing #LiberationNow

The Hidden Legacy of Africa: Unveiling the Truth About Our Shared Origins The narrative of human history has long been shaped by those who hold power, often obscuring the rich and vital contributions of Africa to humanity. One of the most significant truths that has been suppressed is that all of mankind originated from Africa. This is not just a theory but a scientific fact supported by extensive evidence of human migration patterns. Despite this, the contributions of African civilizations, outside of Egypt, have been systematically downplayed or erased from history, a legacy of colonialism and imperialism. For example, the Kingdom of Benin, a highly advanced society in what is now Nigeria, constructed the Walls of Benin—a series of earthworks that were over 16,000 kilometers long, making them four times longer than the Great Wall of China. These walls were an extraordinary feat of engineering, involving an estimated 150 million hours of human labor, and served as a formidable defense system for the kingdom. The city of Benin itself was highly sophisticated, with a complex urban design, including a network of streets, underground drainage systems, and impressive architecture, all planned according to advanced mathematical principles like fractal design. Despite these incredible achievements, the history of Benin and other African civilizations is largely ignored in mainstream history. The destruction of the Benin Empire by British forces in 1897 further contributed to the erasure of this rich history. The sacking of Benin not only destroyed the physical structures but also looted countless artifacts that now reside in museums far from their place of origin, depriving future generations of their cultural heritage. The suppression of African history serves a broader agenda of maintaining a narrative that portrays Africa as a “dark continent,” devoid of civilization and irrelevant to the development of human culture. This narrative supports a supremacist worldview that continues to marginalize African contributions and denies the shared origins of all human beings. It’s time to challenge this narrative and recognize that Africa’s history is not only central to the story of mankind but is also a source of pride for all of humanity. We are all Africans, whether we acknowledge it or not, and the achievements of African civilizations like Benin should take their rightful place in the annals of world history. #AfricanHistory #HumanOrigins #BeninWalls #Colonialism #HiddenHistory #AllAreAfricans #MankindFromAfrica #AfricanCivilizations #BeninCity #SupremacyMyth

Dr Dzavid Haveric, an #Australian #Muslim #scholar at Charles Sturt University, has published a new book chronicling the extent of Muslim Australians' service in the Australian defence forces during the biggest wars in the country's history, including in the Sudan and Boer wars through to the first and second World Wars. "The book is a Muslim narrative of a broader #ANZAC story and the interfaith dimension of the wars that brought together Muslim and non-Muslim Australians" - Dr Haveric. We can think of at least two major reasons why this groundbreaking piece of research by Dr Haveric and Charles Sturt University can be appreciated as an important national contribution. Firstly, it is a reminder to all Australians that Muslims in Australia have a long, rich, and proud history in helping to shape the social fabric of our country. Secondly, it demonstrates the place of #multiculturalism in Australian society, which harms the whole of our nation when it is forgotten, undermined, or taken for granted. Thank you Dr Haveric for your remarkable scholarly work. We hope it will inspire new generations to actively seek platforms and opportunities for their diverse voices to continually shape Australia's national narrative. To read more or to purchase the book, click the link https://lnkd.in/gADxT5Wh.

Many people in Africa who were affected by colonialism spend more time thinking about the past instead of focusing on the present and future. There is so much that we can research and learn about our ancestors. They were intelligent with a lot of wisdom. They were concerned about the community and not individuals. I come from the Kikuyu community where ancestors had a strong stand on many things. They passed their knowledge through storytelling, songs, proverbs, etc because of the rich oral traditions. These were then passed down from generation to generation with moral lessons and cultural values. They encouraged every generation to listen to their elders and learn from their experiences unlike in present times when people disregard those growing old. Elders were respected and decisions were made collectively and not by one person dictating others. Our people were very connected to the land and nature because of the beliefs that our ancestors’ spirits resided in the forests and mountains. This is why we respect and look at Mt Kenya or Mt Kirinyaga as a sacred mountain. It has played a central role in Kikuyu spirituality and identity. There was a major emphasis on community and family in Kikuyu culture as they were seen as important factors. Everyone had a role to play and it was all to support and uplift the community and not an individual. One who pursued own interests alone was perceived as a selfish person. We had strong cultural practices and traditions which were demonstrated through rites of passage such as circumcision ceremonies for boys, initiation for girls, marriage, customs, agricultural techniques, etc. These were all designed as valuable aspects of our society which gave responsibility and a sense of belonging to every member of the community. Kikuyu people were resilient and adaptable. They showed resilience in many ways through some historical challenges. For example, during colonialism, they were on the forefront of resistance movements to the oppression of the colonizers. They took up their arms and went into the forest to fight for the liberation of the country. This is a testament to the strength and wisdom that future generations need to learn about. Future generations need to know our history, strength, wisdom, intelligence so that they would not look down upon themselves as inferior people from primitive backgrounds, but use this knowledge and understanding to propel themselves to the next level as global citizens. #Generations #GlobalCitizen #Resilience