FPC TRANSCRIPT: Reforming the UN Security Council with Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield
FOREIGN PRESS CENTER BRIEFING WITH LINDA THOMAS-GREENFIELD, U.S. AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED NATIONS
Downloadable video and photos of this briefing for use in reporting can be found here:
FOREIGN PRESS CENTER BRIEFING WITH LINDA THOMAS-GREENFIELD, U.S. AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED NATIONS
LINK/TOPIC: REFORMING THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2024, 2:00 P.M. EDT
THE WASHINGTON FOREIGN PRESS CENTER, WASHINGTON, D.C.
MODERATOR: Good afternoon, all, and thank you for joining us here at the Washington Foreign Press Center. My name is Leah Knobel and I’ll be the moderator for today’s briefing. It’s my pleasure to introduce Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, United States Ambassador to the United Nations. A reminder that this briefing is on the record and the transcript, video, and photos will be posted to our website later today.
And with that, I will invite the Ambassador to begin with her opening remarks.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Good afternoon, everyone. One week ago I had the opportunity to deliver a keynote address at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York City. In it I discussed the progress the Biden-Harris administration has made and will continue to make to create a UN that is fit for purpose, ready to meet the challenges and the opportunities of the 21st century. I walked through some of the efforts we’ve championed to reform the multilateral system, from how we finance and deploy peacekeeping operations to how we ensure our humanitarian and our developments efforts are effective and efficient.
And I announced our support for key changes to the composition of the United Nations Security Council. This is a process that began two years ago when President Biden shared that the United States supports expanding the council to include permanent representation for countries from Africa as well as Latin America and the Caribbean. That’s in addition to the countries we’ve long supported for permanent seats: India, Japan, and Germany. In the months following the President’s announcement, I met with dozens of countries in New York in what I like to call a listening tour. I listened to their ideas and their aspirations for a more inclusive, representative Security Council.
And now we head into the final High-Level Week of the Biden-Harris administration with three new commitments for Council reform. First, that the United States supports creating two permanent seats for Africans on the council. Second, that the United States supports creating a new elected seat on the Security Council for Small Island Developing States. And third, the United States is ready to take actions on these reforms and pursue a text-based negotiation; in other words, to put our principles to paper and begin the process of amending the United Nations Charter.
Over the past week, I’ve heard from so many leaders across the United Nations and in fact from across the world and the multilateral system more broadly. One partner called these proposals “seismic” and others have expressed strong support for our announcement. And even those who don’t agree with every aspect of our proposal understand that the United States putting our stake in the ground is a big, big deal. So there’s a sense of genuine excitement that meaningful progress really is possible, and there’s a renewed sense of purpose to make it happen. It’s a testament to the power of the United States’ leadership and it’s a reminder that while diplomacy is hard and diplomacy about diplomacy is even harder, we can do hard things. We can think beyond what has been, push ourselves to create a system that meets this moment and the opportunities of the future.
So with that, I am ready to take a few questions. Thank you.
MODERATOR: Thank you, Ambassador. We’ll now take questions. Please introduce yourself and your outlet when I call on you. We’ll start with Dmytro in front, and also we’re using microphones today, so please wait to ask your question.
QUESTION: Thank you very much, Ambassador. Thank you very much, Foreign Press Center, for organizing this. It’s priceless. Ma’am, on Ukraine if I may. Firstly, the High-Level Week is always about Ukraine. I know it will be the Security Council on the 24th. Yesterday speaking to journalists in New York, you told you do have some hope to make some progress on Ukraine. So can you give us an understanding about the Ukrainian dimension of those days? And secondly if I may, the – Ukraine is asking the United Nations to verify the situation in the areas of Russia’s Kursk region controlled by Kyiv to prove adherence to international humanitarian law. Do you – do you have any comment on this? What is the position of the United States? Thanks so very much.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: On next week, we do intend to focus attention on the situation in Ukraine. We’ve called for the special meeting of the Security Council on the 24th. And as you know, President Zelenskyy will be in town and there will be a number of side meetings on Ukraine. Our goal is to keep Ukraine on the front burner of the agenda. Russia’s unprovoked war on Ukraine continues. They are not making any efforts to end this war. And it’s in their – it’s really in their power to end this war by withdrawing from Ukraine.
So we intend to keep the pressure on Russia during next week’s Security Council. And we do know that Russia is committing violations, and we’ve called upon the UN and others to investigate those violations. I don’t have any additional information on the plans of the United Nations.
MODERATOR: Okay, I’ll go to Diyar – second row, gray jacket.
QUESTION: Thank you so much. Thank you so much, Ambassador, for doing this. My name is Diyar Kurda. I’m working for Rudaw TV; it’s a Kurdish TV. The first question, speaking of the Middle East and recent incidents in Lebanon: While the U.S. are trying to minimize and also trying to calm down the situation and reaching a ceasefire deal, but on the other side we see these incidents that we saw yesterday in Lebanon and today as well, which a dozen people killed and also a dozen other – dozen peoples were injured. Do you have any fear that this will jeopardize the U.S.’s position in the Middle East and also jeopardize all the efforts that have been taken to calm down the situation? And I have another question.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Well, certainly we are not trying to minimize the situation that occurred in Lebanon. We know that the situation is still under investigation, but in no way are we minimizing that. And as the Secretary said in his remarks yesterday, we discourage any escalation of the situation on the ground. We want both sides to try to keep us from moving into another conflict, spreading this conflict beyond the – beyond where it is now. And we’re still working on trying to get through the negotiations on the cessation of hostilities in Gaza. We want the hostages released. We want calm in Gaza so additional humanitarian assistance can be delivered to the suffering people in Gaza.
QUESTION: And second question: Talking about the threats coming from terrorism, especially ISIS, we saw in the recent days and weeks they increased their attacks in Syria, in Kurdistan, and also in Iraq. But while we see these incidents, we see the U.S. and Iraq are talking about ending the coalition forces in Iraq, and the Iraqi Government – which the Iraqi prime minister said that we are going to announce by the end of this month. Does the U.S. support the end of the coalition forces in Iraq and the U.S. withdrawal in the current situation that we see ISIS still poses a threat on your interests and also on your allies and also on your friends in the region?
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Look, discussions are still taking place with the Iraqi Government on that issue in particular, but we will always continue to defend our interests until we’re – we’ve pulled out of Iraq. And so the attacks that we are experiencing will be a source of concern for us, and certainly we will respond.
MODERATOR: We have limited time with the ambassador today, so please keep your questions brief and only ask one question. We’ll go to this side of the room now – white buttoned-up shirt. Thank you.
QUESTION: Hi. Thank you, Ambassador. My name is Johanna Roth. I’m with Zeit Online from Germany. You just spoke of the potential for escalation in that conflict, and what do you make of the recent statement by the Israeli administration that this is a new era, quote/unquote, “new era” of this conflict focusing more on the north, and how might that affect the meeting next week in --
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: I mean, I think I have to refer you to the Israelis to explain what they meant by that statement. But certainly over the course of next week, we will be engaging on intense discussions with all of our allies, our partners, as well as others on how to de-escalate and bring an end to this conflict.
MODERATOR: Okay, we’ll go to Alex in the front.
QUESTION: Thank you so much, Ambassador. Alex Raufoglu from news agency Turan. Two very quick questions. Let me get your fresh reaction to Finland’s request to remove Russia from UN Security Council? And --
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: I’m sorry, whose?
QUESTION: Finland requested to remove Russia from UN Security Council and to take away Russia’s voting right. Your fresh reaction to that?
And second question: Given this – the fact that this is going to be the last UNGA for this administration, and given the fact that you have been championing democracy summits, how much democracy – decline in democracy in Eastern Europe and some other regions will be a part of this summit? Georgia is in my mind, but just (inaudible) other countries as well.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Well, I hadn’t heard, to be honest, about Finland’s request to have Russia removed from the Security Council. This is a subject that the Ukrainians have brought up on a regular basis as well. Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council who has attacked its neighbor and really attacked all the values of the UN Charter. So having committed those actions, I could see why countries might question why Russia should be on the Security Council.
And I’m not sure I understood your question on democracy, the democracy summit.
QUESTION: (Off-mike.)
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Well, I mean, I think for us democracy anywhere is going to be a part of any discussions we have in the summit. We think the Summit of* Democracy has been extraordinarily successful. We want to continue to encourage those countries who are still standing strong as democracies and build – help boost those countries where we start to see backsliding. And there are some countries that we have seen backsliding.
MODERATOR: Okay. We’ll go to David Smith.
QUESTION: Hi, David Smith of the Guardian. Just wondered if you could talk a bit about the proposal for two African seats on the UN Security Council. Is it possible sometimes those would be non-democratic countries, and does that concern you?
And then a second question: Just generally interested in your reflections on the U.S.’s relationship with African countries, and is there still a perceived struggle there with China for influence?
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Look, Africa – the Africans will choose their two seats on the Security Council. It’s not for us to make that choice. And then they have to be voted on in the General Assembly and supported by – broadly by the Security Council. We have countries on the Security Council that are sometimes not democracies, but I would hope that in making its choices for the Security Council that African countries will choose countries that will be able to represent their – broadly their interest.
And I’m sorry, the second question?
QUESTION: Just your reflections more generally on U.S. influence in Africa, and many people talk about a big competition there with China.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Look, I have been working on Africa for almost 40 years. I served as the assistant secretary for Africa during the Obama administration. And our relationships across Africa are good. And while there’s always this sense that we’re competing with China on Africa, we have been actively working with Africans on the continent since the beginning. We were one of the first countries to – I think we were even the first country to recognize Ghana. And we continue to have close relationships across the board with African countries. We’re not telling African countries that they can’t choose to have relations with China. That’s a choice that they have to make. What we have to do is be able to give them a choice.
MODERATOR: We’re going to do fourth row, gray jacket, white shirt. Okay.
QUESTION: Thank you. Aziz Rami for the Moroccan press agency. I want to go back to the U.S. relations with African countries. Recently you and the Kingdom of Morocco have co-sponsored a resolution on AI for development. We see today that AI is being used for entertainment, but also for lethal goals. Do you – can you just tell us where your – this – the implementation of this resolution is, and do you think that really AI can – and how can it be used for sustainable development? Thank you.
MODERATOR: Did you introduce yourself?
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Thank you so much for asking that question, because AI is really a very high priority for us. We will be doing several events over the course of High-Level Week and leading up to our presidency in the Security Council in December. We co-sponsored – in fact, drafted a resolution on AI that got wide support across the board in the General Assembly. Our goal is for AI to be used for good, is for AI to support the Sustainable Development Goals, and we think that AI can support those goals. And we want to work to bridge the digital divide so that the technology around AI can be used to support countries that are not as developed as others, so that people across the world can use and benefit from the use of AI.
MODERATOR: We’re going to take one more question in the room. We’ll go up front here, the striped tie.
QUESTION: Thank you so very much, Ambassador. Deeply appreciate it. And thank you so very much, Foreign Press Center, for this opportunity. My name is Aref Yaqubi from Afghanistan International. As you may know, today the Security Council had a meeting on Afghanistan. And it seems that the permanent members of Security Council, including United States, has deep and serious differences or disagreements with China and Russia over Afghanistan. And the situation in Afghanistan is quite dire, as you know much better. So what are the main challenges? And when the permanent members of Security Council may agree upon some things that had promised before, like introducing a special representative for Afghanistan, and the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan? Thank you.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Well, you basically laid out the differences – one, the last comment you made on the treatment of women and girls. We have seen the situation for women and girls in Afghanistan continue to worsen under the Taliban. And we think we need to do more to hold them accountable, but also to push them to change. They cannot continue to live in a world where women are being sidelined in society, 50 percent of their population not contributing to their countries. And this is certainly a huge difference that we have with China and Russia, raising issues of human rights before we recognize a Taliban government.
And then the issue of the special envoy, we are very supportive of there being a special envoy, and we have encouraged the UN to move forward in appointing that person so that there is direct engagement inside of Afghanistan with the powers that need to encourage them to move in the direction that they can be accepted by the rest of the world. And at this point, they’re not there.
MODERATOR: Thank you. We’re going to take one question online before ending today. Andrés Fidanza, can you please unmute yourself, turn on your microphone, and introduce yourself and your question?
QUESTION: Hi, thank you very much. I’m Andrés Fidanza from El Observador, an outlet from Argentina and Uruguay. My question is about Venezuela. I want a reflection about the crisis there that seems paralyzed – it’s like the sanction on the Maduro government – and if the issue is going to be discussed at the summit and what are your expectation about it? Thank you very much.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Thank you so much for that question. You may be aware that a little over a week ago, we stood at the podium with the foreign minister of Panama to support their expression – and in fact there were probably 30 or 40 countries, if not more, standing there with him – our concerns about the situation in Venezuela: what is happening with the opposition; the fact that Maduro stole the election from the opposition, and that is the view that is held across the board. And we do want to engage on this in New York during High-Level Week, and I know that there are countries who will be raising this as a concern, and we will have meetings related to that.
MODERATOR: Thank you. This concludes our briefing today. Thank you, Madam Ambassador, and to you all for joining us. Thank you.
AMBASSADOR THOMAS-GREENFIELD: Thank you very much.
For more information or to find more FPC programs, visit our website. Follow us on Twitter/X @ForeignPressCtr
Washington Foreign Press Center
National Press Building
Phone: (202) 504-6301
African Consuls General Meet in New York
The meeting welcomed new members and discussed past and upcoming activities with focus on creating ways to engage their various communities.
Africa-Related, New York
The African Consuls General Group Recently Met at the Africa Union Permanent Observer Office in New York
Hosted by the Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco in New York under the leadership of Hon. Mohammed Benabdeljalil, the meeting welcomed new members and discussed past and upcoming activities with focus on creating ways to engage their various communities.
A presentation on the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York was delivered by the Consul General of Malaysia HE Amir Farid Abu Hassan.
Mr Simon Ibe of Global Patriot Newspapers and Mrs. Oyiza Adaba of Africa-Related Inc. both spoke on the need for the group to engage the African Diaspora media outlets in order to reach their nationals. Ice informed the group that the gap in how the media operates in the West and how it operates among people of African descent, is the basis for a webinar that will will be held on September 20th 2024 from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm (EST), during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Week, and is part of the UN Summit of the Future..
Ms. Busi Matsiko, President of the newly instituted New York Chamber of Commerce also addressed the group, harping on the powerful location New York City offers, and on the economic viability of engaging with Wall Street and other financial institutions that encourage and support Diasporta Africans. She cited that six African designers participated in the the recently concluded New York Fashion Week.
The Media of the Future:
The Media of the Future: Bridging the gap between west and people of African descent.
Global Patriot Newspapers GPN is inviting you to a Dialogue on:
The Media of the Future: Bridging the gap between west and people of African descent.
Time: Sep 20, 2024 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Meeting Link
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87435712414?pwd=OjVBNZ8jKOe2owdIbEGY2DDdPa95W.1
Meeting ID: 874 3571 2414
Passcode: guest
NUC Resource Verification Team Visits Lux Terra
A team of experts from the National Universities Commission (NUC), led by the Ag Executive Secretary, Dr Chris Maiyaki, was on Friday September 6, 2024, hosted by the management staff of the Psycho-Spiritual Institute of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation,
A team of experts from the National Universities Commission (NUC), led by the Ag Executive Secretary, Dr Chris Maiyaki, was on Friday September 6, 2024, hosted by the management staff of the Psycho-Spiritual Institute of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, and representatives of the Veritas University, Abuja, Senate, in what was the final stage in the due diligence processes of the agency, towards the legal recognition and approval of the offering in Nigeria, of the two postgraduate programmes of the Institute.
These are: the Postgraduate diploma in Psycho-Spiritual Trauma Healing, and the Master of Art's degree in Psycho-Spiritual Therapy. Earlier in April, 2024, an affiliation agreement was signed by the Institute with Veritas University, Abuja, for the award of the degrees in Nigeria.
It will be recalled that the first campus of the Psycho-Spiritual Institute was established in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2013, and it was affiliated to the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) in 2014. The Psycho-Spiritual Therapy programme was subsequently accredited by the Kenyan Commission for University Education (CUE). In the 11 years of its existence, the Institute has trained over 150 experts from up to 27 different African countries, in Psycho-Spiritual Therapy.
It is hoped that with this new development, the campus in Abuja will join the Nairobi campus in training and equipping many professionals in the humanitarian services, as well as religious leaders and sundry volunteers, who will help facilitate integral healing, wholeness, growth and transformation, in the many individuals, families and groups across the continent of Africa, who are today suffering from psycho-trauma, depression, confusion, burn-out, midlife crisis, family dysfunction, grieving disorders, addictive disorders, including addiction to alcohol and psycho-active substances, and suicide ideation.
Graduates of the Psycho-Spiritual Therapy programme will be equipped to work as counsellors and chaplains, in formation houses, hospitals, hospices, drug rehabilitation centres, correctional centres, as well as schools, colleges and universities.
The Psycho-Spiritual Institute is the pioneering initiative of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, which is aimed at the wholesome integration of the tools and approaches of modern Psychological Sciences, with the rich resources of the Soul Care tradition of our religions, in the training of experts and volunteers for mental health care, within the African socio-cultural and religious context. Admission is now open for the pioneering students of the Abuja campus of the Institute.
See pictures below...
###
U.S. Department of State Daily Digest Bulletin
U.S. and Ghana Nuclear Firms Sign Landmark Commercial Agreement for Small Modular Reactor Project in Ghana.
U.S. and Ghana Nuclear Firms Sign Landmark Commercial Agreement for Small Modular Reactor Project in Ghana
08/29/2024
You are subscribed to Africa for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
U.S. and Ghana Nuclear Firms Sign Landmark Commercial Agreement for Small Modular Reactor Project in Ghana
08/29/2024 09:02 AM EDT
Office of the Spokesperson
At the U.S.-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit in Nairobi, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Jenkins, joined by U.S. Department of Energy Deputy Assistant Secretary Aleshia Duncan, Ghana Deputy Minister of Energy Collins Adomako-Mensah, and Ghana Ministry of Energy Chief Director Wilhelmina Asamoah, observed a significant milestone in civil nuclear cooperation between U.S. and Ghanaian nuclear industries — the signing of a commercial agreement between Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG) and Regnum Technology Group, the U.S. developer for a small modular reactor (SMR) project using NuScale Power technology.
This commercial agreement between NPG and Regnum represents a pivotal advancement in collaboration between U.S. and Ghanaian civil nuclear industries and is testament of the commitment by both nations to advancing clean and sustainable energy solutions. The SMR project is anticipated to be a cornerstone of Ghana’s efforts to enhance its energy infrastructure and lead the way on SMR deployments in the region. This initiative will help Ghana achieve its energy goals and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, setting a precedent for future energy projects in the region.
The NPG-Regnum agreement builds on existing U.S.-Ghana civil nuclear cooperation, including under the U.S. Foundational Infrastructure for the Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Program that is helping Ghana to establish itself as a SMR Regional Hub and center of excellence. In addition to technical training, advisory services, and study tours, the FIRST Program is providing a NuScale Energy Exploration (E2) Center SMR control room simulator to serve as a regional training center for nuclear power technicians and operators and is establishing a welding certification program to support jobs and supply chain development for the region. Through this dedicated workforce development focus, Ghana will be positioned to establish a skilled nuclear workforce consistent with the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation.
The United States is committed to supporting the use of innovative clean nuclear energy to power global decarbonization efforts and provide energy security to partners around the world.
share this story
'DELA' Interview: Remembering Tam Fiofori
'DELA' Interview: Remembering Tam Fiofori - Filmmaker Visionary Historian Critic This interview was conducted in June 2021 for the biographical documentary DELA: The Making of El Anatsui, directed by Oyiza Adaba.
By Oyiza Adaba
UNCLE TAM
1942-2024
Filmmaker Visionary Historian Critic
This interview was conducted in June 2021 for the biographical documentary DELA: The Making of El Anatsui, directed by Oyiza Adaba
The legendary Tam Fiofori, during his interview for ‘DELA’.
“I’ll be a bit rude and say that the Nigerian Elite is yet to be civilized in terms of the arts. We must be quite blunt. Look at our political leaders, our so called, big rich men. Go to their houses. How many artworks Do you see? How many books do you see?”
Rest In Peace
From all of us
Africa-Related & DELA! Team
“... we don’t have beauty in our society, and it manifests in the way we behave, because it’s become a dog-eat-dog society, a rat race where the drive is to acquire money and wealth.”
Follow the Film
“We must be a bit careful about The Western world defining and grading our creative people in all genres, from music to literature to the arts. EL ANATSUI is one of Africa’s greatest artists, that’s the way I’ll describe him. In terms of contemporary art. He is very outstanding. He’s a huge figure, and he’s a great credit to art from Africa.”
share this story
Black Public Media 2024 Open Call to offer $175,000 in funding for Black stories
NEW YORK (August 20, 2024) — Black Public Media (BPM)
has issued its 2024 open call for projects that center Black culture, characters, communities and concerns. A total of $175,000 will be awarded this year to U.S. documentary projects currently in pre-production, production or post-production, and intended for public media distribution. The 2024 submission portal (
https://blackpublicmedia.org/for-media-makers/bpm-open-call/
) goes live on Tuesday, September 3, and closes on Monday, September 30 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Since its inception, BPM has invested more than $17 million toward iconic documentaries and emerging media projects about the global Black experience.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BLACK PUBLIC MEDIA ISSUES OPEN CALL FOR BLACK STORIES
BPM to award a total of $175,000 in current round of funding
NEW YORK (August 20, 2024) — Black Public Media (BPM) has issued its 2024 open call for projects that center Black culture, characters, communities and concerns. A total of $175,000 will be awarded this year to U.S. documentary projects currently in pre-production, production or post-production, and intended for public media distribution. The 2024 submission portal (https://blackpublicmedia.org/for-media-makers/bpm-open-call/) goes live on Tuesday, September 3, and closes on Monday, September 30 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Since its inception, BPM has invested more than $17 million toward iconic documentaries and emerging media projects about the global Black experience.
This year BPM — a Harlem-based national media arts nonprofit that trains talented storytellers and funds and distributes their works — welcomes feature-length documentary projects in a range of formats, styles, subject matter and genres, including those that target specific viewers such as children and teen audiences. The projects should be compelling, nuanced stories that add the point of view, experiences and concerns of the Black communities to the larger public discourse.
Applicants must be the producer or director of the project with at least three years of professional producing and/or directing experience (or must have a senior producer attached to the project). The applicant must be able to complete the project within 18 months. Additional requirements can be found at: https://blackpublicmedia.org/for-media-makers/bpm-open-call/.
This fall, a panel of media professionals across the industry will evaluate the proposals in a two-tier review process that assesses the project idea and story, production readiness, production team, project budget and work sample. And in December, BPM will announce the five applicants who will receive a $5,000 stipend, an invitation to its talent development program and the opportunity to participate in PitchBLACK, the largest pitch competition for independent filmmakers and creative technologists developing new projects about the global Black experience. One of these projects will win a $150,000 PitchBLACK Award for a broadcast-length or feature project.
“Each year we are amazed to see the myriad, layered stories which are bubbling up from all corners of this country from such gifted creatives,” said BPM Executive Director Leslie Fields-Cruz. “We look forward to helping these makers bring their important work to American viewers.”
Prospective applicants may register to attend BPM’s virtual information session on Tuesday, August 27, at 6 p.m. EST at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_j6eYTqC9Q_qyHMWGIr0v7A.
BPM’s 2024 Open Call is supported by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, Netflix, the MacArthur Foundation, the Tarver Walls Foundation, Paramount+, the New York Community Trust, the Jerome Foundation, the Tides Foundation, Acton Family Giving and Gimlet.
For more information on Black Public Media, visit www.blackpublicmedia.org, or follow it on X (@BLKPublicMedia),
Facebook (@BlackPublicMedia), Instagram (@blackpublicmedia) or TikTok (@black-public-media).
ABOUT BLACK PUBLIC MEDIA:
Black Public Media (BPM) supports the development of visionary content creators and distributes stories about the global Black experience to inspire a more equitable and inclusive future. For 45 years, BPM has addressed the needs of unserved and underserved audiences. BPM-supported programs have won five Emmys, 10 Peabodys, three Anthem Awards, 14 Emmy nominations and an Oscar nomination. BPM continues to address historical, contemporary, and systemic challenges that traditionally impede the development and distribution of Black stories. For more information, visit blackpublicmedia.org and follow BPM on Instagram and Facebook and @BLKPublicMedia on X.
# # #
For interview and media inquiries, contact:
Cheryl L. Duncan
Cheryl Duncan & Company Inc.
201-552-9239 (O)
share this story
Elections 2024: Day 1 Videos/Photos at the DNC
The Democratic National Convention (DNC) is ongoing in Chicago, where Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to accept the nomination for President of the United States. Here are some images and Briefings from Day 1
Monday, August 19, 2024
The Democratic National Convention (DNC) is ongoing in Chicago, where Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to accept the nomination for President of the United States. Here are some images and Briefings from Day 1
All photos and videos are courtesy of The Foreign Press Center.
BRIEFERS
Richard Gamble of Choose Chicago and Christy George of 2024 DNC Chicago Host Committee
Suzi LeVine, former United States Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein-
Patrick Iber, Editor of Dissent Magazine and Associate Professor of History, University of Wisconsin–Madison-
share this story
Central Park Zoo: A History In New York Conservatory
An opportunity for a self-tour of the iconic Central Park Zoo to capture images deepens a chance to increase visibility to the importance of wildlife, conservation, and the natural world.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
An opportunity for a self-tour of the iconic Central Park Zoo to capture images deepens a chance to increase visibility to the importance of wildlife, conservation, and the natural world.
Images at Central Park Zoo
The Arsenal Building on 5th Ave and 64 Street was where a premier global organization based in New York City, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) briefed members of the foreign press. The briefing centered on their current strategies to contribute to regional and global conservation.
WCS manages the world’s largest field-conservation effort in more than 50 countries with a portfolio of Nature’s Strongholds covering more than 16 million hectares. Topics discussed include work to declare the Hudson Canyon, 100 miles off the coast of New York a National Marine Sanctuary; legislation in the U,S. Congress that would lead to more funding of conservation projects around the world; and WCS’s role in advancing 30x30.
Globally recognized days for conservation include World Wildlife Day in March and Environmental / Earth Awareness Month in April.
PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED
Press Release - Nigerian Center Announces Collaboration with AfricanAncestry.com
WASHINGTON DC, August 12, 2024 – The Nigerian Center is pleased to announce a new
partnership with African Ancestry (AfricanAncestry.com), the pioneers of single lineage genetic ancestry tracing for people of African descent. This collaboration offers language classes specifically designed for African Ancestry testers, fostering a deeper connection to cultural roots and heritages in Africa.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nigerian Center Announces Collaboration with AfricanAncestry.com to Connect African Americans to Their Nigerian Ancestry Through Language Classes
WASHINGTON DC, August 12, 2024 – The Nigerian Center is pleased to announce a new partnership with African Ancestry (AfricanAncestry.com), the pioneers of single lineage genetic ancestry tracing for people of African descent. This collaboration offers language classes specifically designed for African Ancestry testers, fostering a deeper connection to cultural roots and heritages in Africa.
Starting fall 2024 the Nigerian Center will provide a variety of language classes, including Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa languages exclusively for African Ancestry customers. The classes are tailored to meet the needs and interests of members who have traced their ancestry to Nigeria using the MatriClan DNA Test Kit and/or the PatriClan DNA Test Kit.
"We are thrilled to partner with African Ancestry to offer these language classes, especially as we see a growing number of Americans with Nigerian ancestry and a rising curiosity about Nigerian culture in America. This collaboration is not just about learning a new language; it's about reconnecting with one's heritage and strengthening cultural identity. We believe that understanding the language of your ancestors can provide a profound sense of empowerment." Gbenga Ogunjimi, Executive Director, Nigerian Center.
“We continually seek out ways to deepen and enhance connections to Africa through testing, education, and experiences,” said Dr. Gina Paige, president and co-founder of AfricanAncestry.com. “This unprecedented partnership underscores that commitment through the expertise and offerings of the Nigerian Center,” said Dr. Paige.
The language classes will be open for registration starting August 2024.
To arrange an interview or learn more, please contact Adejumoke Ojo at info@nigeriancenter.org or call 202-330-0352. For more information about the Nigerian Center language program, please visit www.nigeriancenter.org/languageclasses
About Nigerian Center:
The Nigerian Center Inc. (501c3) is the first immigrant and cultural center for the Nigerian diaspora in the United States. The Nigerian Center's mission is to offer financial inclusion and social justice opportunities for members of the African immigrant community. We educate, empower, uplift, and assist all immigrant families in acclimating to life in the United States through policy advocacy, cultural, legal aid services, entrepreneurship, and homeownership opportunities. The Nigerian Center is dedicated to promoting and preserving Nigerian culture and providing access to all things Nigerian in the United States.
About African Ancestry:
Founded in 2003 by Dr. Rick Kittles and Dr. Gina Paige, African Ancestry is the world leader in tracing maternal and paternal lineages of African descent. With the industry’s largest and most comprehensive database of indigenous African DNA samples, African Ancestry determines specific countries and ethnic groups of origin with an unrivaled level of detail, accuracy, and confidence. African Ancestry is committed to providing a unique service to the black community by working daily to improve the cultural, emotional, physical, spiritual, and economic wellbeing.
###
share this story
Studio Visit with Yifat Bezalel
Oyiza Adaba stops by artist Yifat Bezalel’s studio in Manhattan during her residency program in New York.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
Oyiza Adaba visits artist from Israel Yifat Bezalel, at her Manhattan studio during her residency program in New York. The soft-spoken Bezalel is trained as a classical and academic artist, and over the years she has established her unique technique. In her work process she superimposes semi transparent pencil layers of figurative and realistic images creating surreal realms. Her works have often been described as having an ethereal quality to them.
Yifat Bezalel, a classically trained artist with her unique technique of superimposing semi transparent pencil layers. (Photo: Africa-Related)
PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED
PHOTOS: THE DAILY NEWS BUILDING, New York
Oyiza Adaba captures a glimpse of the ground floor of the historic Daily News Building in midtown Manhattan.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
The Daily News Building, also known as The News Building, is a skyscraper at 220 East 42nd Street in the Turtle Bay neighborhood of Midtown Manhattan in New York City. The original building was designed by architects Raymond Hood and John Mead Howells in the Art Deco style, and was erected between 1928 and 1930.Wikipedia. Oyiza Adaba captures a glimpse of the ground floor of the historic Daily News Building in midtown Manhattan.
FACTSHEET
Address: 220 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Floors: 36
Architects: Raymond Hood, John Mead Howells
Height: 476′
Opened: July 23, 1930
Source: Wikipedia
PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED
SUDAN'S TWO WARLORDS: The Worst Displacement And Humanitarian Crisis Yet
Amidst the ongoing war in the Middle East and Ukraine, the rise of anti-government protests, mass migration and general global tensions, there is a "forgotten" war that is yet to garner as much media coverage. Two strategic events took place in the U.S. this week, to bring the much needed attention to the ongoing war in Sudan.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
Amidst the ongoing war in the Middle East and Ukraine, the rise of anti-government protests, mass migration and general global tensions, there is a "forgotten" war that is yet to garner as much media coverage. Two strategic events took place in the U.S. this week, to bring the much needed attention to the ongoing war in Sudan
Stock Photo: Tom Rogers @tomtookaphoto
Rival factions fighting in Sudan's two-year war that started on 15 April 2023, have brought the central African country to its knees in one of the worst displacement and humanitarian crises ever seen. The Sudanese Armed Forces under Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces under the Janjaweed leader, Hemedti are complicit in causing mass migration that has triggered famine in some parts of the country.
Screenshot: Washington Post Live
On July 30th, U.S. media giant, Washington Post hosted a live conversation on Sudan's current situation. The forum enabled top diplomats and humanitarian experts to come together and proffer solutions to a crisis, "forgotten". At this gathering, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, together with top global experts like Comfort Ero, President & CEO, International Crisis Group, participated in the discussion.
World Vision CEO, Edgar Sandoval Sr. has described it as "the largest humanitarian and hunger crisis in the world", because the warring factions continue to block humanitarian aid, have weaponized food and play the blame game with each other.
In a separate development on July 31, 2024, the Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA) held a press briefing with members of the foreign press, to drive home some hard-hitting, first-hand facts about the ongoing conflict.
Dr. Yasir Elamin, a Sudanese/American is an assistant professor in the Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, at the University of Texas MD Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, and president of SAPA. He and his colleagues conducts regular medical missions to the region, with his last trip being June 2024. His words paint a grim and desperate picture.
“The health care system in Sudan has been devastated. Almost 70 percent of healthcare facilities are damaged or non-operational, often targeted in attacks. Tragically, at least 30 healthcare professionals have lost their lives since the conflict began. Access to aid and information is frequently obstructed, compounding the crisis.”
Ms. Razan Zaroug, a planning, monitoring & evaluation specialist with the Sudanese American Physicians Association based in Sudan reiterated Elamin’s points, highlighting the immediate danger for the mission's ground team which creates strategic and operational plans, monitors and evaluates implementation and impact.
With the backdrop of a potentially expanded war or a negotiated peace, 4 million Sudanese children are acutely malnourished, parts of the country are on the brink of famine and up to 25.6 million people are facing food insecurity.
According to the U.S Department of State, the total U.S. humanitarian assistance for the Sudan emergency response was nearly $710 million in Fiscal Year 2023.
In January 2024, The United States. brought sanctions on funding sources fueling the conflict. Clearly, more needs to be done. How Sudan continues to fall under the world's radar in the shadow of other topical news items like the Middle East and Ukraine, is best summed by Amb. Greenfield…
“It’s Africa and people don’t pay as much attention to Africa as they pay to other parts of the world.”
Inside CONSUMER REPORTS America
How well are you protected as a consumer, given the vast array of products we consume everyday? In this special report, Oyiza Adaba, examines Consumer Reports America, an 87 year-old non-profit institution that has been championing consumer rights - from food to flying cars.
By Oyiza Adaba, New York
How well are you protected as a consumer, given the vast array of products you consume everyday? In this special report, Oyiza Adaba, examines Consumer Reports America, an 87 year-old non-profit institution that has been championing consumer rights - from food to flying cars.
Copies of yearly consumer reports by over an 87-year period. (Photo: Africa-Related)
Yonkers, New York is approximately 30 minutes from Midtown Manhattan. It is the hometown of Denzel Washington and Consumer Reports, an 87-year old independent non-profit organization in the United States that has a long history of working to advance truth, transparency, and fairness in the marketplace. With its independent, evidence-based research and testing, Consumer Reports empowers and informs consumers, incentivizes corporations to act responsibly, and helps policymakers prioritize the rights and interests of consumers in order to shape a consumer-driven marketplace.
This exclusive opportunity was for Foreign Press members to be briefed by Marta L. Tellado, President & CEO, Consumer Reports, and discussed consumer behaviors and how Consumer Reports informs consumer decisions. Ms. Tellado who has led America’s foremost consumer organization since 2014 and also explained how Consumer Reports is working to ensure a consumer-first approach to AI and the advocacy programs that help consumers can feel transparency, accuracy, and fairness
Other briefers were Lilian Kayizzi, Vice President of Research, Testing and Insights, Consumer Reports, who explained the depth of research by the organization. Jake Fisher, a Senior Director, Auto Test Center, gave insights to the Connecticut Testing 327-acre site, which is the largest independent automotive test site devoted to consumer interests.
The Briefers
The TOUR
Visiting journalists got an opportunity to tour CR’s consumer product and service testing center that houses over 60 state-of-the-art labs with over 130 researchers, scientists, engineers, and testing experts. In the coming fiscal year, CR expects to spend more than $30 million to test, rate, and review 9,000+ products and services. The tour included the following stops:
Auto Demonstration: A first-hand look at what drivers can and cannot see behind the wheel in some of America's most popular SUVs and trucks. Being 5.1, I proved the perfect candidate for this demo
Robotic Vacuum Lab: How well robotic vacuums perform at simple tasks like cleaning carpets and floors, and the data the machines collect about your home.
Rec Lab: Bike helmets are supposed to protect your head, but we'll show you how not all are created equal. Plus, experience the CR-invented machine that tests how long treadmills are supposed to last.
Inside the Rec Lab at Consumer Reports with the testing team. (Photo by Africa-Related)
My colleagues and I spent some time quizzing the team at the video doorbell lab where CR uncovered that popular video doorbells could be hacked by a young child.
In an era where fake products have flooded global trade, the agency continues to operate alongside global counterparts across various exchange platforms to ensure uniformity of vision.. The question now is, how does your country's consumer protection agency function? Do they live up to their name and objective of 'protecting the consumer'?
Video Report: By Africa-Related
PHOTOS BY AFRICA-RELATED
RELATED STORIES: Consumer Reports Part II: Rec Lab Team - A Candid Conversation
The #endbadgovernance Protest in New York
The #endbadgovernance protest in front of Nigeria House on 2nd Avenue New York, where only a handful of protesters showed up. They however made their demands clear under the watchful eye of the NYPD.
New York, NY
August 1, 2024
The #endbadgovernance
protest in front of Nigeria House on 2nd Avenue New York, where only a handful of protesters showed up. They however made their demands clear under the watchful eye of the NYPD. Their demands include a review of the country's 1999 constitution.
SHARE THIS STORY
CARIBBEAN FIESTA 2024 IN LAGOS
The long-anticipated Caribbean Tropical Fiesta 2024 hosted by Nigerian West Indian Association took place on Saturday the 20th of July at the Whitesands School in Lekki Lagos, Nigeria. The venue was colorful and the ambiance was nothing short of breathtaking.
By Patricia Igho - Lagos, Nigeria
The long-anticipated Caribbean Tropical Fiesta 2024 hosted by Nigerian West Indian Association took place on Saturday the 20th of July at the Whitesands School in Lekki Lagos, Nigeria. The venue was colorful and the ambiance was nothing short of breathtaking.
The bustling scenes took me down memory lane sometime in the early 1990s, when we would have yearly carnivals with different zones in Lagos, competing to win 'best costume' etc. Back then we had super talented 'aunties' who would make the glamorous costumes from scratch.
These gatherings organised by Caribbean wives of Nigerian men living in Nigeria, formed some of the most memorable times in my life. We would dance to calypso music all the way from our different zones at Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island. Big brands like Coca-cola were consistent with their sponsorship.
Carnival as we knew it, came to an abrupt end in ‘92 due to some political issues in Nigeria I'd rather not revisit. It is a sad time when a culture is allowed to diminish or die.
Mini fiestas however continued to hold at every opportunity during private meetings and gatherings of friends and family, weddings, funerals, birthdays, and who can forget the bazaars organised by our special ‘Aunties’. The aroma of delicious snacks and food filling the air. Many Island cultures are represented here in Lagos. Escovitch fish was my personal favorite.
Fast forward to 2024. After three decades and much deliberation, the Nigerian West Indian Association is considering bringing back the Carnival. A lot has happened in that time, some families have relocated, a lot of 'aunties' have lost their husbands and moved back to their Caribbean home countries. That's not to say that there's a scarcity of able hands. The next generation of children and grandchildren are getting the idea for continuation. This is not a culture we would like to be forgotten.
The fiesta was an opportunity for people to have a taste of West Indian culture. The venue was decorated with real colorful flowers. There were stalls all across the hall, with displays of food, clothing and spices to name a few. The venue buzzed with activities, dance, games, a raffle draw, as the sound of Soca music filled the air. I took note of a few veterans of Lagos, as they beamed with nostalgia.
The full day event slowly wound down as evening came. It was a success and plans are underway for another event later in the year.
Recommended Read
The NigerWives of Nigeria by Pat Oyelola is a book that documents the history, activities, experiences and lives of a group of foreign women who are married to Nigerian men and came together under the umbrella of their association, Nigerwives. Nigerwives was formed as an association to facilitate the smooth integration of foreign wives of Nigerians into Nigerian society, to provide friendship and support for one another, and to establish or assist in social projects that would benefit the Nigerian community.
Patricia Igho is of Nigeria/St. Vincent & The Grenadines parentage, and lives in Lagos.
Photos by Uzo Agafie
Port Authority and JFK Millenium Partners
QUEENS, N.Y., July 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), the company selected to build and operate the highly anticipated $4.2 billion Terminal 6 (T6) at John F. Kennedy International Airport, today announced that 18 artists have been selected to debut new public art commissions when the terminal opens to passengers in 2026. The art program is led by Public Art Fund, the independent nonprofit organization dedicated to art in public spaces.
Port Authority and JFK Millenium Partners Announce Selection of Acclaimed Artists to Create Permanent Commissions at John F. Kennedy International Airport’s New Terminal 6
18 Inspirational Art Installations Will Feature Artists from New York and Beyond, Supporting Port Authority and JFK Millennium Partners' Vision to Transform the Passenger Experience at JFK
Sculptures, Suspended Installations, Wall Works, and Glass Mosaic Floor Medallions will Create a Unique New York Sense of Place
Curated by Public Art Fund, Artists Selected by Committee from Port Authority, JFK Millennium Partners, and Arts Community
Photos of the Artists are Available Here; Construction Photos and Renderings of the New Terminal 6 are Available Here
QUEENS, N.Y., July 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), the company selected to build and operate the highly anticipated $4.2 billion Terminal 6 (T6) at John F. Kennedy International Airport, today announced that 18 artists have been selected to debut new public art commissions when the terminal opens to passengers in 2026. The art program is led by Public Art Fund, the independent nonprofit organization dedicated to art in public spaces. The featured artists, including 10 from New York City, will capture the spirit of New York with a diverse range of artworks that will be seamlessly integrated into the terminal. Sculptures, suspended installations, wall works, and glass mosaic floor medallions will create a unique New York sense of place.
The project supports the Port Authority's vision to create a world-class passenger experience at JFK, as it has done at the award-winning, internationally recognized terminals at the new LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport's Terminal A, through inspirational public art, operational excellence, 21st century technology and world-class functionality.
The new Terminal 6 is a key component of the Port Authority's $19 billion transformation of JFK into a world-class gateway, with two new terminals; two expanded and modernized terminals; a new ground transportation center; and an entirely new simplified roadway network.
"Public art that is inspiring and evocative of our region is an essential part of the Port Authority's strategy to create world-class airports that are becoming destinations in their own right," said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. "Just as we have done at LaGuardia and at Newark-Liberty's Terminal A, the public art at JFK's new Terminal 6 will dazzle travelers and help create a sense of place unique to New York."
"These remarkable artists will bring the unique spirit of our region to the new JFK Terminal 6, welcoming international visitors and locals alike," said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O'Toole. "We applaud the creative vision of these talented artists and look forward to seeing their creative works transform the terminal."
"Art brings visitors from across the world to New York City, and our new international gateway at JFK will be an art destination in and of itself," said George Casey, chair of the board of JFK Millennium Partners and chair and CEO of Vantage Group. "Stepping into the new Terminal 6, visitors will instantly feel the vibrancy of the city's cultural life reflected in this captivating range of artworks."
"Art takes a starring role at the new Terminal 6. Walls, floors, ceilings and volumes will all be enriched with architecturally integrated, site-specific commissions by some of the most extraordinary artists of our time," said Nicholas Baume, artistic & executive director of Public Art Fund. "Like Terminal 6 and New York itself, the reach of the art program is global, featuring artists from near and far, from groundbreaking, emerging voices to senior, celebrated figures."
Remarks by President Biden
THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon. Last night, I spoke with Donald Trump. I’m sincerely grateful that he’s doing well and recovering. And we had a short but good conversation.
Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers.
We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed. He was a father. He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired, and he lost his life. God love him.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2024
REMARKS BY PRESIDENT BIDEN
Roosevelt Room
2:05 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon. Last night, I spoke with Donald Trump. I’m sincerely grateful that he’s doing well and recovering. And we had a short but good conversation.
Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers.
We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed. He was a father. He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired, and he lost his life. God love him.
We’re also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured. And we’re grateful to the Secret Service agents and other law enforcement agencies who -- and individuals who risked their lives, literally, for our nation.
As I said last night, there is no place in America for this kind of violence or for any violence for that matter.
An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a na- -- as a nation. Everything. It’s not who we are as a nation. It’s not America, and we cannot allow this to happen.
Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is important than that right now -- unity.
We’ll debate, and we’ll disagree. That’s not -- that’s not going to change. But it’s going to -- we’re going to not lose sight of the fact of who we are as Americans.
Look, Vice President Harris and I were just briefed in the Situation Room by my homeland security team, including the director of the FBI, the secretary of Homeland Security, the attorney general, the director of the Secret Service, my homeland security advisor, the national security advisor. And we’re going to continue to be briefed.
The FBI is leading this investigation, which is still in its early stages. We don’t yet have any information about the motive of the shooter. We know who he is. I urge everyone -- everyone, please, don’t make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations.
Let the FBI do their job, and their partner agencies do their job. I’ve instructed that this investigation be thorough and swift. And the investigators will have every resource they need to get this done.
Look, as this investigation continues, here’s what we’re going to do.
First, Mr. Trump, as a former president and nominee of the Republican Party already receives a heightened level of security, and I have been consistent in my direction to the Secret Service to provide him with every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety.
Second, I’ve directed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures for the -- all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which is scheduled to start tomorrow.
And third, I’ve directed an independent review of the national security at yesterday’s rally to assess exactly what happened. And we’ll share the results of that independent review with the American people as well.
And, finally, I’ll be speaking more about this tonight at greater length from the Oval Office: We must unite as one nation. We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are.
And so, may God bless you all. And may God protect our troops.
Thank you very much.
2:08 P.M. EDT
SHARE THIS STORY
2024 Trafficking in Persons Report
BACKGROUND: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken released the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report (TIP Report) on Monday, June 24 with Cindy Dyer, Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. On Tuesday, Ambassador Dyer will brief FPC journalists on the report, which represents the world’s most comprehensive resource of anti-trafficking efforts around the globe.
2024 Trafficking in Persons Report
The film and series Òlòtūré directed by Kevin Gyang focuses on human trafficking, migration etc. It is now showing on Netflix.
WHAT: Washington Foreign Press Center On-The-Record Hybrid Briefing
TOPIC: 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report
BRIEFER: Cindy Dyer, Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons
WHEN: Tuesday, June 25, 10:00 a.m. ET
WHERE: National Press Building, 529 14th Street, NW, Suite 800 and Zoom
RSVP: Sign Up. Priority given to in-person attendees.
BACKGROUND: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken released the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report (TIP Report) on Monday, June 24 with Cindy Dyer, Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. On Tuesday, Ambassador Dyer will brief FPC journalists on the report, which represents the world’s most comprehensive resource of anti-trafficking efforts around the globe. The Report is mandated by the Trafficking Victims Protection Act and exemplifies the United States’ longstanding bipartisan commitment to combating human trafficking. This year’s Report, the 24th edition, includes narratives for 188 countries and territories, including the United States. The 2024 TIP Report describes key issues in the Western Hemisphere region and focuses on the anti-trafficking efforts of governments and other stakeholders. The Report also documents several emerging global trends including the continual growth of forced labor in online scam operations.
Cindy Dyer serves as the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. Ambassador Dyer is a human rights advocate with three decades of experience at the local, national, and international levels to address human trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic violence. In 2021, she served on the Independent Review Commission on Sexual Assault in the Military. For 12 years, she was the Vice President for Human Rights at Vital Voices. She previously served as the Director of the Office on Violence Against Women at the U.S. Department of Justice. She began her career as a specialized domestic and sexual violence prosecutor in Dallas, Texas for more than 13 years where she was also a weekly hotline volunteer at a local women’s shelter.
FOREIGN BROADCASTERS: Download a digital copy of the video for all on-camera FPC events at the DVIDS website.
Washington Foreign Press Center
National Press Building
529 14th Street, NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20045
Phone: (202) 504-6301
SHARE THIS STORY
LEAH SHARIBU 21st BIRTHDAY: SETTING CAPTIVES FREE AND RECORDS STRAIGHT
On her 21st birthday, we were concerned to read media reports about captive Christian heroine schoolgirl Leah Sharibu. While most of the facts reported in the story is old news, including our world exclusive report on her birth of a second child in captivity, we’re troubled by the claim that Leah converted to Islam and was married, “According to a "repentant" terrorist, Sharibu first married Abdulrahman after converting to Islam and had a son with him.”
By Emmanuel Ogebe
US Nigeria Law Group Washington
How Leah exercised her legal rights in captivity
On her 21st birthday, we were concerned to read media reports about captive Christian heroine schoolgirl Leah Sharibu. While most of the facts reported in the story is old news, including our world exclusive report on her birth of a second child in captivity, we’re troubled by the claim that Leah converted to Islam and was married, “According to a "repentant" terrorist, Sharibu first married Abdulrahman after converting to Islam and had a son with him.”
Our sources which include women who were fellow captives with Leah however said
“When she first arrived their camp, they gave her out to a certain commander who took her as his slave, but later on went ahead to free her and marry her.
After taking in for him, she asked for a divorce, because she was always fighting with his wives
She then married her second husband had a baby girl for him in May 2021.
But heard he passed sometime last year Abu Farahi Aka Ali Abdallah.”
The fact of the matter is that Leah was enslaved due to her refusal to convert to Islam and served a particular commander.
He was so impressed with her that he on his own volition decided to emancipate her from serfdom and then married her.
However bitter conflict arose between her and his other wives who still looked down on her as an infidel even if she was now supposed to be their co-wife. Just like the biblical story of Joseph who found favor as a slave in Pharaoh’s commander’s house but got into trouble with his wife, Leah had a similar predicament.
Seizing on her coequal status as a wife and her matrimonial rights under the law, Leah who is a highly intelligent girl applied for divorce and therefore escaped from that toxic environment.
It was a short lived victory because she was immediately taken by a high ranking commander as his wife in view of her status as a high value captive but at least her circumstances changed dramatically henceforth.
The military recently rescued Chibok girl Lydia Simon with three children after 10 years in captivity. it is feasible that the military can rescue this global Nigerian icon too. We commend the military for their gallantry.
In addition to seeking her release by the Tinubu regime to show greater concern for Leah Sharibu, we ask for protection and relocation for her birth mother and siblings who were recently displaced during Easter by terror attacks near Sambisa.
We call on FGN to reunite all rescued Chibok girls to their families and to provide full details of and access to information on total numbers of those rescued to resolve the needless and scandalous controversy of figures of those still missing.
We call on Kano state government to release the Du Merci orphans kidnapped over four years ago by the APC government who have still not been released till date despite full and total exoneration of the wrongfully persecuted humanitarian professor Solomon Tarfa.
Kano state cannot afford to be a running mate to Boko Haram terrorists in kidnapping schoolchildren like its predecessor.
We call on Nigeria to clear the air on false narratives that the CIA rescued 30 Chibok girls as published in a recent book “The Sisterhood: The Secret History of Women at the CIA” by Liza Mundy (Crown Books, October 2023).
Emmanuel Ogebe
US Nigeria Law Group
Washington