Watch Diaspora Rising, a short film from the co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement
At the beginning of the year, Opal Tometi - one of the three inspirational founders of the Black Lives Matter movement - travelled from NYC to Accra to celebrate the Year of Return, where she shot the short film Diaspora Rising: Beyond African Liberation Day. Directed by Wael Gozly, it was due to be released on African Liberation Day (25 May), but following the murder of George Floyd and subsequent urgent action, Tometi has chosen to release this important work now.
“The concept of Diaspora Rising is to equip Africans who are newer to the diaspora – say first or second generation - with information about the social issues of our day. And more than just the information, it’s packaged in a way that is actionable,” Tometi states. “When we have knowledge, we have a responsibility to act, and so my hope was to support a community of Africans who are growing in their consciousness about their Black identity and our global connections and power.”
The film sees Tometi move through Ghana’s capital while asking us to channel the spirit of our freedom fighting forebears to create change. “May we never forget that the same power and ingenuity that compelled our ancestors to seek freedom from colonialism lies within us. May we be reminded of the sacrifices of our forebears and the sacrifices of thousands of human rights activists who are rising up now.”
“Freedom and justice are not inevitable or guaranteed but it’s what our people are owed”
The Nigerian American advocate, strategist and writer became the executive director of BAJI (Black Alliance for Just Immigration) aged just 27, has been integral to shaping Black Lives Matter since 2013, and also works as a racial justice communications consultant. Her many accolades include being counted among Forbes’ 50 Most Influential Leaders and being awarded the 2020 Freedom or the Flame Award.
As protests continue around the world, calling for social justice, equality and an end to structural and institutional racism, the heartfelt messages contained within this short film could not be more pertinent. “Freedom and justice are not inevitable or guaranteed but it’s what our people are owed,” she adds. “It’s on days like this that I’m reminded, our destinies are intertwined and there is much to be hopeful about.”