Moment with Africans
Kerr Consulting • Sep 23, 2019
On Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, Ethleen Peacock hosted, Moment with Africans, an event celebrating African culture and a discussion led by Dr. Abera Gelan and Fessahaye Mebrahtu. Even though it was humid and rainy outside, the No Studios Gallery was filled with love, joy, reconnection, and excellent air conditioning. African inspired beaded necklaces, leather bracelets, and various vibrant pieces of clothing were up for sale. Not to mention an overflowing but fulfilling variety of African food. After thirty minutes of mingling, everyone gathered in the theater.
Dr. Abera Gelan, an Associate Professor at UWM who teaches African and African Diaspora Studies that focuses on economics and social development. Fessahaye Mebrahtu, the first Director of Black Catholic and Ethnic Ministries for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. Both delivered deeply resonating lectures. "Africa is going through an identity and language crisis because of colonialism...Superiority in African culture doesn't exist because of the intermingling of other communities and cultures..." stated Fessahaye. One would think or imagine Africa as a vast place stricken with poverty as a third world continent since the beginning of time, this is neither true or false. According to Dr. Gelan, Africa was very progressive and robust from 1960-
1975 because it was independent. "In the early 1980s, development ceased due to bad governments, geography, and dependence on natural commodities such as diamonds," stated Gelan. It's easy not to recognize that Africa is comprised of individual countries that have very different needs. The right thing to do would involve creating private sectors and restructuring the educational system, suggested Gelan.
After a substantial but insightful discussion, the energy felt uplifting as people began to leave.
Peacock was very proud of the turnout and anticipated a long relaxing evening.
