Photo source: Twitter/ @AAPRP
For many, May 25 is just another date on the calendar, but for millions of people across Africa and the diaspora, it is a day that holds great significance – African Liberation Day (ALD). On this day, many African countries and communities around the world celebrate the hard-fought achievement of their freedom from European colonial powers.
African Liberation Day traces its roots back to 1958, when Kwame Nkrumah convened the First Conference of Independent States held in Accra, Ghana. It was attended by eight leaders of newly independent African nations.
When it convened in 1958, the Congress called for the founding of an annual ‘African Freedom Day’ in order to “…mark each year the onward progress of the liberation movement, and to symbolize the determination of the people of Africa to free themselves from foreign domination and exploitation”.
April 15 was declared Africa Freedom Day. Between 1958 and 1963, the nation/class struggle intensified in Africa and the world. Seventeen African countries won their independence, and 1960 was proclaimed the Year of Africa.
The movement gained momentum, leading to the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, which later evolved into today’s African Union (AU). The Charter of the Organization of African Unity was signed on May 25, 1963, when thirty-one African heads of state convened in Ethiopia for the Summit Conference of the Independent African States. They agreed to rename African Freedom Day African Liberation Day and changed the annual celebration date to May 25th.
ALD has spurred coordinated efforts among the Organization of African Unity’s member states to fund, strengthen, and intensify liberation movements across the African continent. The goal is to end the exploitation and oppression of Africans at home and abroad by finding peaceful solutions through deliberations and open communication among the nations that are involved.
Each year, the AU adopts a theme to highlight a particular problem the continent faces and work together towards a solution. The theme for the year 2025 is Africa for Africans: Revolutionary Pan-Africanist Unity Across Borders in the Battle for Socialism Against Imperialism.
This theme underscores the fact that we have not obtained our freedom, and more work needs to be done to liberate and unify Africa.
How African Liberation Day is Celebrated
Many African communities around the world celebrate ALD. The day is observed on different continents, from the Caribbean to Europe, South America, and North America.
Photo source: Facebook/ All-African People’s Revolutionary Party (AAPRP)
On this day, African people focus on what they share, such as their common past, problems, and future. It is also an opportunity to think about the plight of their African brothers who are under foreign rule and are seeking to win their freedom and fundamental human rights.
ALD is usually marked with one or two-day events, which can feature:
- A symposium of international speakers
- Street marches and rallies
- Formal gatherings with panel discussions
- Culturally relevant vendors
- Edutainment (education through cultural entertainment)
Why African Liberation Day Still Matters Today
Sixty-seven years after the start of the celebration of Africa Day in 1958, the struggle for freedom continues. The chains may look different now, but they still exist in different forms.
Black people worldwide still deal with systemic economic inequalities, political instability, systemic racism, and cultural erasure. All these are clear signs that the struggle for African Liberation is not over and will not stop until victory is achieved.
From Accra to the US, Kenya to Jamaica, African Liberation Day remains relevant, and here’s why:
A reminder of our shared history: For Black people around the world, African Liberation Day is an annual reminder of historical injustices we have faced and the victories achieved through collective resistance. We are reminded of our shared roots and global future, and that our collective struggles are connected.
A platform for education and awareness: This annual event is an opportunity to educate younger generations on the history of African liberation and the persistent challenges.
Celebrating African identity and culture: In a world where African contributions have often been minimized or distorted, African Liberation Day is an opportunity to showcase African culture, traditional fashion, and languages, many of which have been suppressed by centuries of colonization and Western dominance.
For many in the diaspora facing challenges in reconnecting with their African heritage, ALD plays an important role in reviving African culture. Honoring our roots gives us a deep understanding of our identity, which in turn strengthens our liberation movements.
Honoring our ancestors and celebrating Black resilience: On this special day, we get to remember the labors of our heroes past and honor the brave men and women like Kwame Nkrumah and Patrice Lumumba, who fought for the right to self-determination. Remembering their bravery strengthens our resolve to continue pushing for liberation today. It’s also a moment to celebrate the enduring spirit of Black people worldwide.
Resistance against systemic oppression: Black people have consistently fought against oppression in every conceivable form throughout history. On this special occasion, we are reminded that the struggle is far from over.
That same spirit of liberation from the anti-colonial era continues to motivate Black communities globally in their ongoing pursuit of racial justice, economic empowerment, and social change. ALD is an annual call to action for Black activists, organizations, and everyone in general who believes in true freedom to continue to fight for justice.
A call to action for the next generation: African Liberation Day still matters as it is not just about remembrance, but about taking action. It is an opportunity for the young generation to get informed, get involved, and build the future we deserve.
The Future of Black Liberation
Social media’s influence on African Liberation Day is undeniable. Each year, hashtags like #AfricanLiberationDay and #PanAfricanUnity trend brings millions into conversations about global Black identity.
As we mark this year’s African Liberation Day, we must shift our focus from mere remembrance to actively engaging and dedicating ourselves to the continuing work of liberation. We can do this by:
- Supporting Black-owned businesses and initiatives.
- Advocating for policies that promote racial and economic justice.
- Amplifying Black voices and narratives in education, media, and culture.
- Building stronger connections and collaborations within the global Black community.
- Challenging all forms of oppression and exploitation that continue to impact Black lives.
