Great Queens of Afraka, like Nefertari, Hatshepsut, Makeda, the Candaces, Nzingha, Al-Kahina, Yaa Asantewa and many others set examples, paths and shoulders of strength as matriarchs of both patrilineal and matrilineal lineage structures for generations to come. For women and men of the Virgin Islands, Afraka and our global communities, the examples of strength, endurance, loyalty, security and spirited- intentions have continued to impact the development and maintenance of ancestral Afrakan and world civilizations for millennia. The work, contributions and actions for social change initiated by our Queens of the Virgin Islands as embodied by Queen Breffu, Queen Mary and Queen Coziah are a powerful and multi-dimensional extension of these ancestral forces and sources of strength, power, freedom and determination.
The Queens of the Virgins presented in the innerattaining & cultural education presentation produced by Per Ankh, Inc. as part of the VI Humanities Council "We The People" initiative as the first Virgin Islands Chautauqua in June 2006 included presentations of and by:
Queen Breffu, who has been recognized for her strategic leadership role in the revolution and intended independent nation of enslaved Afrakans of St. John in 1733 to 1734-Commemorated annually on November 23rd;
Queen Mary who has been recognized for her activism and social upheaval during the Great Fireburn of 1878 on St. Croix-Commemorated annually on October 1st; and
Queen Coziah who has been recognized as a forerunner of the non-violence movement for her short-lived yet powerful leadership in the Coal Worker’s Strike of 1892 on St. Thomas-Commemorated annually on September 12th.
It is important to note that the biased versions of “documentation” provided by most 18th -21st scholars has been cautiously integrated to insure that the integrity of the historical accuracy of these women may be maintained while more intensive research is still being uncovered to present a more truthful and balanced portrayal of these Queens of the Virgin Islands who represent Afrakan women as mothers, royal & common leaders, military strategists, planners, workers & laborers and more.
Queen Breffu, Queen Mary and Queen Coziah represent the ancestral, traditional, customary and contemporary essence that lies dormant amongst many women in our society and is often shunned or ostracized in our women who reflect these great women’s pioneering and championship causes for life, inspiration, freedom and education—LIFE. These women are a reflection and life-strengthened examples of RAevolutionary Afrakan Wombmyn-RAW!
Email perankh@gmail.com and visit www.perankhu.org to request a link for the film trailer of "Queens of the Virgins" and to reserve your copy of the upcoming film being released in 2011.
Excerpts reprinted with permission from Per Ankh, Inc. of from “Queens of the Virgins” © 2006- a culturally historic ethno-documentary production and forthcoming film on the 18th and 19th century freedom queens, women and cultural history of the former Danish West Indies and contemporary Virgin Islands.
Showing posts with label liberation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label liberation. Show all posts
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Saturday, December 25, 2010
International Year for People of African Descent-WGEPAD Report from April 2010
Hotep:
This is an overview of the positions, perspectives and analysis for action from the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent [WGEPAD]. At some point, the composition and ideological frames of reference of the members of this august body will share the implementation plans and action programmes that are in effect for more input from our family nation.
This document has been prepared by the Secretariat of the WGEPAD.
Shem Hotep
******************
WORKING GROUP OF EXPERTS ON PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT
IX Session, 12 – 16 April 2010
WORKING GROUP’S PROPOSALS
FOR THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR FOR PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT
“People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development”
I. Organisational proposals:
1. That the International Year for People of African Descent be accompanied by the title “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development” in order to bring attention on the critical thematic focus for the International Year
2. That the International Year for People of African Descent be observed with the full involvement of all relevant UN bodies, programmes, and specialized agencies, in particular UNESCO, ILO, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP and UNFPA.
3. That cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations be ensured in the context of the observance of the International Year at the regional level.
4. That the relevant UN authority establishes a voluntary fund, including an initial contribution from the UN regular budget, for the International Year and invites contributions from Member States and all relevant donors, so as to provide additional funding for the implementation of the activities relating to the International Year, as well as follow-up activities, and to facilitate the participation of NGOs dealing with issues of People of African descent in such activities.
5. That the UN Secretary-General appoints High Commissioner for Human Rights as the Coordinator of the activities related to the International Year for People of African Descent.
6. That the Office of the High Commissioner ensure adequate media coverage of the International Year, including by way of materials such as a logo, posters, brochures, etcetera, and the establishment of a dedicated web space for the International Year.
7. That a linkage between the International Year for People of African Descent and the 10th anniversary of the DDPA be formally established.
8. That national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights be invited, through the International Coordinating Committee (ICC), to actively participate in the Year, including by initiating relevant activities at the national level.
9. That the International Year be opened by way of an Opening Day ceremony to be held at the 65th session of the General Assembly on 10 December 2010.
II. Substantive proposals:
1. That the International Year for People of African Descent be observed formally at the High Level Segment of the 16th session of the Human Rights Council by way of organizing a Panel Discussion.
2. That an International Day for People of African Descent be declared after wide consultation with people of African descent; but that the date chosen be connected with an important date in Haitian history in recognition of Haiti’s fundamental role in exposing discrimination against people of African descent and centering concepts of human dignity and right to freedom and justice for people of African decent locally, regionally and globally from 1791-1804 and beyond.
3. That the Human Rights Council be invited to launch the process for the formulation of a Declaration on People of African Descent and give a mandate to the Working Group of People of African Descent to develop a draft text in this respect.
4. That a high level international conference on People of African descent be organised, under the auspices of the General Assembly, on the theme “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development” with the participation of Member States and all relevant specialized agencies, human rights treaty bodies, special procedures and other stakeholders.
5. That regional conferences be held in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America, on topics related to the situation of People of African descent.
6. That OHCHR organizes side events on the situation of People of African Descent during the regular sessions of the Human Rights Council in 2011.
7. That a publication on the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent be produced in the series “Fact sheets” including a compilation of the recommendations by the Working Group.
8. That participation be encouraged by the largest number of civil society in activities organized for the International Year for People of African Descent and that an international network be created which is devoted to exchanging information among the various sections of NGOs representing people of African descent.
9. That arrival point sites of memory be established in all countries where Africans were relocated and in all countries that benefited from the Transatlantic Trade in Africans.
10. That governments be encouraged to include in their education activities awareness-raising events relating to the observance of the International Year for People of African Descent, including, inter alia, through art competitions, cultural events, awards, academic events, films and documentaries with a view to the restoration of the dignity of people of African descent.
11. That States, UN agencies, and regional organizations encourage cultural links between the African Diaspora and the African continent.
For more information visit:
http://www2.ohchr.org/english/issues/racism/groups/african/4african.htm
This is an overview of the positions, perspectives and analysis for action from the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent [WGEPAD]. At some point, the composition and ideological frames of reference of the members of this august body will share the implementation plans and action programmes that are in effect for more input from our family nation.
This document has been prepared by the Secretariat of the WGEPAD.
Shem Hotep
******************
WORKING GROUP OF EXPERTS ON PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT
IX Session, 12 – 16 April 2010
WORKING GROUP’S PROPOSALS
FOR THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR FOR PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT
“People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development”
I. Organisational proposals:
1. That the International Year for People of African Descent be accompanied by the title “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development” in order to bring attention on the critical thematic focus for the International Year
2. That the International Year for People of African Descent be observed with the full involvement of all relevant UN bodies, programmes, and specialized agencies, in particular UNESCO, ILO, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP and UNFPA.
3. That cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations be ensured in the context of the observance of the International Year at the regional level.
4. That the relevant UN authority establishes a voluntary fund, including an initial contribution from the UN regular budget, for the International Year and invites contributions from Member States and all relevant donors, so as to provide additional funding for the implementation of the activities relating to the International Year, as well as follow-up activities, and to facilitate the participation of NGOs dealing with issues of People of African descent in such activities.
5. That the UN Secretary-General appoints High Commissioner for Human Rights as the Coordinator of the activities related to the International Year for People of African Descent.
6. That the Office of the High Commissioner ensure adequate media coverage of the International Year, including by way of materials such as a logo, posters, brochures, etcetera, and the establishment of a dedicated web space for the International Year.
7. That a linkage between the International Year for People of African Descent and the 10th anniversary of the DDPA be formally established.
8. That national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights be invited, through the International Coordinating Committee (ICC), to actively participate in the Year, including by initiating relevant activities at the national level.
9. That the International Year be opened by way of an Opening Day ceremony to be held at the 65th session of the General Assembly on 10 December 2010.
II. Substantive proposals:
1. That the International Year for People of African Descent be observed formally at the High Level Segment of the 16th session of the Human Rights Council by way of organizing a Panel Discussion.
2. That an International Day for People of African Descent be declared after wide consultation with people of African descent; but that the date chosen be connected with an important date in Haitian history in recognition of Haiti’s fundamental role in exposing discrimination against people of African descent and centering concepts of human dignity and right to freedom and justice for people of African decent locally, regionally and globally from 1791-1804 and beyond.
3. That the Human Rights Council be invited to launch the process for the formulation of a Declaration on People of African Descent and give a mandate to the Working Group of People of African Descent to develop a draft text in this respect.
4. That a high level international conference on People of African descent be organised, under the auspices of the General Assembly, on the theme “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development” with the participation of Member States and all relevant specialized agencies, human rights treaty bodies, special procedures and other stakeholders.
5. That regional conferences be held in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America, on topics related to the situation of People of African descent.
6. That OHCHR organizes side events on the situation of People of African Descent during the regular sessions of the Human Rights Council in 2011.
7. That a publication on the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent be produced in the series “Fact sheets” including a compilation of the recommendations by the Working Group.
8. That participation be encouraged by the largest number of civil society in activities organized for the International Year for People of African Descent and that an international network be created which is devoted to exchanging information among the various sections of NGOs representing people of African descent.
9. That arrival point sites of memory be established in all countries where Africans were relocated and in all countries that benefited from the Transatlantic Trade in Africans.
10. That governments be encouraged to include in their education activities awareness-raising events relating to the observance of the International Year for People of African Descent, including, inter alia, through art competitions, cultural events, awards, academic events, films and documentaries with a view to the restoration of the dignity of people of African descent.
11. That States, UN agencies, and regional organizations encourage cultural links between the African Diaspora and the African continent.
For more information visit:
http://www2.ohchr.org/english/issues/racism/groups/african/4african.htm
Monday, November 1, 2010
Excerpts of "Queens of the Virgins" All Rights Reserved-PAI 2006
This commentary represents Excerpts reprinted with permission from Per Ankh, Inc. of from “Queens of the Virgins” © 2006- a culturally historic ethno-documentary production and forthcoming film on the 18th and 19th century freedom queens and women of the former Danish West Indies and contemporary Virgin Islands.
To support and promote this effort please email perankh@gmail.com .
Great Queens of Afraka, like Nefertari, Hatshepsut, Makeda, the Candaces, Nzingha, Al-Kahina, Yaa Asantewa and many others set examples, paths and shoulders of strength as matriarchs of both patrilineal and matrilineal lineage structures for generations to come for women and men of the Virgin Islands that continue to have global impact. The work, contributions and actions for social change initiated by our Queens of the Virgin Islands as embodied by Queen Breffu, Queen Mary and Queen Coziah are a powerful and multi-dimensional extension of these ancestral forces and sources of strength, power, freedom and determination.
The Queens of this VI Chautauqua 2006 includes presentations of and by:
Queen Breffu, who has been recognized for her hidden leadership role in the revolt of enslaved Afrakans of St. John November 23rd, 1733 - May 1734;
Queen Mary who has been recognized for her activism and social upheaval during the Great Fireburn of October 1st, 1878 on St. Croix; and
Queen Coziah who has been recognized as a forerunner of the non-violence movement for her short-lived yet powerful leadership in the Coal Worker’s Strike of September 12th, 1892 on St. Thomas.
It is important to note that the biased versions of “documentation” provided by most 18th -21st scholars has been cautiously integrated to insure that the integrity of the historical accuracy of these women may be maintained while more intensive research is still being uncovered to present a more truthful and balanced portrayal of these Queens of the Virgin Islands.
Queen Breffu, Queen Mary and Queen Coziah represent the ancestral, traditional, customary and contemporary essence that lies dormant amongst many women in our society and is often shunned or ostracized in our women who reflect these great women’s pioneering and championship causes for life, inspiration, freedom and education—LIFE.
A Chautauqua is a community presentation that highlights the collaboration and integration of art, culture, language, tradition, spirituality and education in a manner that enhances understanding and humanitarian comraderie amongst all members of our communities. So, get ready to share and participate in our historic opening of our 1st VI Chautauqua!
While contemporary historians and scholars identify at least six (6) women as historical Queens of the VI, it is important to note that there were many more women who earned the title as “queens” in various aspects of pre and post-colonial Virgin Islands’ society. From ancestral times, Afrakan culture and the nations of long-standing strength, were and are matrilineal and in limited instances matriarchal in societal hierarchy. So, it is common for women to be recognized as “queens”. It is customary and part of the cultural traditions of people of Afrakan ancestry to honor women as “queens” based on their leadership, service to the people of their respective community, spiritual & healing gifts, and for their enduring strength as the mothers, nurturers, warriors, healers and caretakers of our communities in Afraka and abroad that have benefited as well as challenged humanity.
The Queens of the Virgin Islands that are being brought to life in tonight’s Chautauqua represent and embody the principles of leadership, compassion, aggressive force, firm nurturing, political indifference, tribalism and ethnic prejudice along with spiritual transformation. These principled qualities are uniquely integrated into the personality, character traits and actions for change exemplified by each of these women of the 18th and 19th centuries respectively. It is important to note that these Queens of the Virgin Islands endured tremendous hardships that were imposed upon them and in some instances imposed by them at the detriment of the human principles of liberty, self-determination, justice and freedom in many circumstances. Despite many extended obstacles within their paths by societal institutions that were inhumane, our VI, national and international communities have immortalized and in some instances negatively romanticized these Queens of the Virgin Islands into the 21st century.
Our Queens of these Beloved Virgin Islands represent women of strength, anger, displaced rage, ethnic imbalance, leadership, arrogance, aggression, compassion, intolerance, non-violence, endurance, humility and a plethora of other human qualities, principles and characteristics. At least for some, these women who we honor and acknowledge as queens reflect and exemplify a spirited emancipation that has permeated a liberating vibration that existed in ancient times, through pre-colonial America, throughout the transition from feudalism to mercantilism to industrialism and capitalism, throughout the enslavement experience & still is present in the 21st century.
To support and promote this ethnographic film documentary initiative and project, please email perankh@gmail.com or drchenzira@gmail.com
Reprinted with permission from Per Ankh, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Copyright © 2006
In Maat, please cite the sources if any aspect of this information is used in any electronic, printed, digital or other format. Dua em Asante Sana!
To support and promote this effort please email perankh@gmail.com .
Great Queens of Afraka, like Nefertari, Hatshepsut, Makeda, the Candaces, Nzingha, Al-Kahina, Yaa Asantewa and many others set examples, paths and shoulders of strength as matriarchs of both patrilineal and matrilineal lineage structures for generations to come for women and men of the Virgin Islands that continue to have global impact. The work, contributions and actions for social change initiated by our Queens of the Virgin Islands as embodied by Queen Breffu, Queen Mary and Queen Coziah are a powerful and multi-dimensional extension of these ancestral forces and sources of strength, power, freedom and determination.
The Queens of this VI Chautauqua 2006 includes presentations of and by:
Queen Breffu, who has been recognized for her hidden leadership role in the revolt of enslaved Afrakans of St. John November 23rd, 1733 - May 1734;
Queen Mary who has been recognized for her activism and social upheaval during the Great Fireburn of October 1st, 1878 on St. Croix; and
Queen Coziah who has been recognized as a forerunner of the non-violence movement for her short-lived yet powerful leadership in the Coal Worker’s Strike of September 12th, 1892 on St. Thomas.
It is important to note that the biased versions of “documentation” provided by most 18th -21st scholars has been cautiously integrated to insure that the integrity of the historical accuracy of these women may be maintained while more intensive research is still being uncovered to present a more truthful and balanced portrayal of these Queens of the Virgin Islands.
Queen Breffu, Queen Mary and Queen Coziah represent the ancestral, traditional, customary and contemporary essence that lies dormant amongst many women in our society and is often shunned or ostracized in our women who reflect these great women’s pioneering and championship causes for life, inspiration, freedom and education—LIFE.
A Chautauqua is a community presentation that highlights the collaboration and integration of art, culture, language, tradition, spirituality and education in a manner that enhances understanding and humanitarian comraderie amongst all members of our communities. So, get ready to share and participate in our historic opening of our 1st VI Chautauqua!
While contemporary historians and scholars identify at least six (6) women as historical Queens of the VI, it is important to note that there were many more women who earned the title as “queens” in various aspects of pre and post-colonial Virgin Islands’ society. From ancestral times, Afrakan culture and the nations of long-standing strength, were and are matrilineal and in limited instances matriarchal in societal hierarchy. So, it is common for women to be recognized as “queens”. It is customary and part of the cultural traditions of people of Afrakan ancestry to honor women as “queens” based on their leadership, service to the people of their respective community, spiritual & healing gifts, and for their enduring strength as the mothers, nurturers, warriors, healers and caretakers of our communities in Afraka and abroad that have benefited as well as challenged humanity.
The Queens of the Virgin Islands that are being brought to life in tonight’s Chautauqua represent and embody the principles of leadership, compassion, aggressive force, firm nurturing, political indifference, tribalism and ethnic prejudice along with spiritual transformation. These principled qualities are uniquely integrated into the personality, character traits and actions for change exemplified by each of these women of the 18th and 19th centuries respectively. It is important to note that these Queens of the Virgin Islands endured tremendous hardships that were imposed upon them and in some instances imposed by them at the detriment of the human principles of liberty, self-determination, justice and freedom in many circumstances. Despite many extended obstacles within their paths by societal institutions that were inhumane, our VI, national and international communities have immortalized and in some instances negatively romanticized these Queens of the Virgin Islands into the 21st century.
Our Queens of these Beloved Virgin Islands represent women of strength, anger, displaced rage, ethnic imbalance, leadership, arrogance, aggression, compassion, intolerance, non-violence, endurance, humility and a plethora of other human qualities, principles and characteristics. At least for some, these women who we honor and acknowledge as queens reflect and exemplify a spirited emancipation that has permeated a liberating vibration that existed in ancient times, through pre-colonial America, throughout the transition from feudalism to mercantilism to industrialism and capitalism, throughout the enslavement experience & still is present in the 21st century.
To support and promote this ethnographic film documentary initiative and project, please email perankh@gmail.com or drchenzira@gmail.com
Reprinted with permission from Per Ankh, Inc.—All Rights Reserved—Copyright © 2006
In Maat, please cite the sources if any aspect of this information is used in any electronic, printed, digital or other format. Dua em Asante Sana!
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