the Embassy of Liberia in Washington, D.C.
July 7, 2009 -- The Embassy of Liberia is collaborating efforts with ONE Liberia, an advocacy group dedicated to promoting a united Liberia, to celebrate Liberia'ss 162nd Independence Day anniversary themed Unity in Diversity. This unity event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at the Embassy of Liberia in Washington, D.C.
Most will agree that a unique characteristic of Liberia has always been its diverse ethnic groups - 15 counties and 16 tribal or ethnic groups. Unfortunately, this uniqueness has also
been exploited by some to create disunity and unwholesomeness. A direct evidence of this is the civil war that lasted for 14 years, saw the death of over 250,000 people, sent thousands of
families into exile, destroyed the country'ss infrastructure and separated families.
Dialogue, education, empowerment programs and events such as Unity in Diversity are collaborative efforts that advocate and promote a united Liberia and forestall the ills of tribalism
and ethnicity, characteristics that have sometimes undermined Liberia'ss national homogeneity. The hope is that unity-themed events like these will empower Liberians and remind us that in
unity success is sure.
Last year, approximately 3000 people attended the celebration in Washington, D.C. With an expected attendance of 5000, this year'ss event will showcase the rich cultural uniqueness of
each county through works of art, food, music, industry and other items.
The Embassy calls on all county associations, through their leaders or representatives, to register their respective counties with the Embassy for participation in this unity and
celebration event. Please call (202-723-0437 ext. 115) from Monday through Friday between 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to register and receive pertinent information concerning this
extraordinary and festive occasion.
To RSVP for the event please visit: http://oneliberia.eventbrite.com/