More than 600 educators and thought leaders congregated at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana last month to participate in the All African Diaspora Education Summit. Co-sponsored by A²MEND, the summit was organized to create a dynamic, unprecedented space and opportunity for educators to freely and unapologetically reimagine how they teach and serve Black students. The summit, which featured globally renowned African centered practitioners and scholars, enabled attendees to network and engage in liberatory practices to ensure deep reflection and create reinvigorated action.
Here are just two testimonials among the hundreds of educators who expressed how participating in the summit was a transformational experience.
“The All African Diaspora Educational Summit was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and opportunity. I have reflected, unpacked and shared various moments of this trip and conference with students, colleagues, family and friends. The words that encapsulate the essence of my experience have been that of a holistic catharsis.
“The summit provided a combination of academic, cultural and historical enlightenment with great speakers, breakout sessions, cultural tours, excursions and fellowship that provided a visceral release and opportunity for generational healing. The connection to our ancestors was spiritual — whether the trip to the slave dungeons at Cape Coast Castle or being able to pay homage to my heavenly family by inscribing their names on the Wall of Return.
“There was heavy energy everywhere and an overwhelming sense of emotional connection and rejuvenation. I am forever changed by this intellectual, spiritual and cultural exchange that has planted stronger seeds of Pan-Africanism and hope that I will take with me as I apply this experience to my praxis and leadership in serving Black scholars in their higher educational journey. I am immensely grateful to A²MEND and LACCD leadership for my participation in this life-changing opportunity.”
Dr. Elliott Coney, Los Angeles Valley College
“The summit has been life changing. No hatred – only love, only acceptance. I have nothing but great things to say. A²MEND – you did a wonderful job! Everything about the conference was excellent.
“I’m so amazed and changed from all of the speakers and all of the information that we received. I’m ready to get back to changing lives – simply said. I’m ready to put what I learned to work. Like many of the speakers said, it’s not about members or what you feel you need to do in a cookie-cutter way. But it’s simply about souls. And we are doing God’s work.
“Not only are we going to make things happen for our students at L.A. Trade Tech and LACCD, but we have also taken the charge of sponsoring some students at the University of Cape Coast, paying some of their tuitions, and sending them some much needed supplies.”
Dr. Dione Washington, Los Angeles Trade Technical College
