United African Organization

UAO Leadership Workshop this Saturday: ABC of Fundraising II

2012-02-21T12:58:00.000-08:00

Participants at the UAO's January Leadership Workshop

The UAO's next Leadership Workshop, on February 25, will continue the discussion on fundraising.

The UAO's African Leadership Development Program is targeted at African community leaders in and around Chicago.

Leadership workshops take place every month and cover a range of topics. The workshops are free BUT you must register in advance to attend. Download the registration form here. Details of the next workshop:

Date: Saturday, February 25, 2012
Time: 9:00am-1:00pm
Venue: 6th Floor, 10 West 35th Street, Chicago IL 60616

Topic: Grant Writing 2

Facilitator: Marcia Lipetz

Marcia Lipetz, PhD, has spent her career in Chicago's philanthropic, nonprofit, and academic communities, primarily in leadership positions. Lipetz is currently consulting with foundations and corporations on grantmaking and community involvement. She was the first full time Executive Director of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the founding Executive Director of the WPWR-TV Channel 50 Foundation (now known as the Alphawood Foundation), and the President & CEO of the Executive Service Corps of Chicago. Lipetz is a past Board Chair of the Donors Forum.

E-mail training@uniteafricans.org to register or call (312) 949-9980 for more information.

UAO Film Screening and Talk at Truman College on Feb 29

2012-02-21T09:52:00.000-08:00

The UAO has been invited by student group It's Just Us at Truman College to present a documentary, the Neo-African Americans, and to talk about the African immigrant and refugee community in Chicago.

Drop by the event if you are in the area! It is free and open to the public.

Date: Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm

Venue: Room 3416, Truman College, 1145 West Wilson, Chicago, IL 60640

Click the poster on the right for more information.

Social Entrepreneurship panel at UChicago tonight

2012-02-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

Click for larger image

The African & Caribbean Students' Association at the University of Chicago is hosting a Social Entrepreneurship Panel on Tuesday 21st February 2012 from 8:00pm-9:00pm at the McCormick Lounge in the Reynolds Club (corner of 57th and University in Hyde Park).

Their theme for this year is 'Be Part of the Solution!!' and they will feature three start-up founders in the social sector focusing on Liberia, India and the United States.

The event is free- register at: www.socialentrepreneurship2012.eventbrite.com. Ethiopian food will be provided.

News round-up: Chicago police violated "sanctuary" ordinance by arresting Cameroonian mother

2012-02-20T10:38:00.000-08:00

A number of news articles have appeared over the last few days, focusing on Rose Tchakounte, a 54-year old mother from Cameroon, who police turned over to immigration agents. Immigration activists and groups, including United African Organization, lobbied for Tchakounte to be released. She was released on Friday afternoon but could still risk deportation unless we act now.

Chicago Reporter: Immigration activists accuse Chicago Police of violating local "sanctuary" ordinance

Chicago SunTimes: Activists: City wrong for turning woman over to immigration agents

WGNTV: Immigrant leaders say Chicago police violated "sanctuary" ordinance

Good News: Cameroonian Mother Released...More Action Needed!

2012-02-17T15:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks to coordinated action by immigrant leaders, Rose Tchakounte, a 54-year-old asylum seeker and mother from Cameroon, was released this afternoon on an “order of supervision”. This is good news but Rose could still face deportation even though she entered the U.S. legally, was never convicted of a crime, has family in the U.S., and has lived here 11 years.

Please help reverse this injustice now!

Please contact:

Ricardo Wong, Midwest ICE Director

(312.347.2400)

and

Karen Lundgren, Midwest ICE Prosecutor

(312.524.8224)

Ask them to exercise prosecutorial discretion, close the case, and stop the deportation of Rose Tchakounte.

This tragedy is a result of our broken federal immigration system and the rogue actions of a Chicago Police Department that violated the 2006 Chicago sanctuary city ordinance.

In addition to helping Rose, we must also make sure that Chicago Police Department never again violates our Sanctuary City status. If you are in the city of Chicago, we ask you to also please call:

Matthew Hynes at the Mayor’s Office of Inter-Governmental Affairs

(312.745.6115)

Ask him to schedule a meeting between ICIRR and Police Superintendent McCarthy in order to ensure that the sanctuary ordinance is being implemented to the full extent of the law.

Let’s work together to make Chicago a global city in which immigrant communities do not fear the Chicago Police Department!

Update: News cameras following Cameroonian Mother Rose T.'s story

2012-02-17T12:48:00.000-08:00

Earlier today, Rose’s family, other families affected by CPD cooperation with ICE, Alie Kabba (President of United African Organization) and ICIRR members came together for a press conference. They called on Chicago Mayor Rahm Emmanuel to "release Rose immediately, apologize to her family, and let it be known that no immigrant should ever have reason to fear the Chicago police force."

WGNTV covered the Press Conferences, and Rose's subsequent move to ICE. Click the link below to view:

Immigrant leaders say Chicago police violated "sanctuary" ordinance

Action Alert: Stop Deportation of Cameroonian Mother!

2012-02-17T08:26:00.000-08:00

Immigrant Leaders to Emanuel: This is a Violation of Chicago Sanctuary City Status

Press Conference TODAY

Friday, February 17, 11:00am
ICIRR office: 55 E. Jackson, suite 2075, Chicago
Speakers: Rose’s family, other families affected by CPD cooperation with ICE, Alie Kabba (President of United African Organization)

At the time of this release, a 54 year-old asylum seeker and mother of a U.S. Citizen, Rose T., is being held at the Chicago Police Department station at 18th and State Street – waiting in a jail cell for immigration agents to come and deport her. She was pulled over for allegedly not using her turn signal. CPD contacted ICE to ask that they arrest Rose, in contradiction to the 2006 Chicago City Ordinance which prohibits the cooperation of city agencies with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This ordinance, and the accompanying executive order by then Mayor Richard Daley, were both lauded and re-affirmed by Mayor Emanuel.

Statement of ICIRR Board President and UAO Executive Director Alie Kabba:

Rose’s detention is a stain on Chicago’s record as a global city that welcomes immigrants. We call on Mayor Emanuel to release Rose immediately, apologize to her family, and let it be known that no immigrant should ever have reason to fear our Chicago police force.

Rose is a 54 year-old mother who came to the United States from Cameroon in 2001, seeking asylum. She entered this country legally and went through the proper channels to apply for asylum. She was initially denied asylum, while her son was granted asylum. She then hired a lawyer in hopes of finding a way to stay in this country to raise her son and be with her family. The lawyer took advantage of her and due to his mistake, she missed her subsequent court date – and an order of deportation was issued for her. Rose has never knowingly broken a law in her life, but she spent last night in a Chicago jail cell waiting for ICE officials to come and take her away from her son and extended family. All because a Chicago police officer decided to take immigration law into his own hands. Rose was pulled over for a traffic violation, and rather than issuing a citation, the arresting officer noticed she was wanted by ICE and proceeded to call ICE to pick her up.

The Chicago Police Department has violated the 2006 Chicago “Sanctuary” Ordinance, instilled fear in the immigrant community, and wasted precious taxpayer dollars – all in the name of separating families. Sadly, Rose’s case does not appear to be an isolated incident.

Through ICIRR's Deportations hotline (1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY), ICIRR recently learned of the case of Oscar and Cesar Pelaez, two brothers aged 18 and 19. Like Rose, Oscar was arrested by Chicago Police, not ICE. In contravention of the 2006 ordinance, Oscar was asked whether he was “illegal” and he replied truthfully that he was. Chicago Police issued him a ticket, but the next day ICE agents appeared at his home and proceeded to arrest both Oscar and his brother. Oscar and Cesar are now at the Detention Center in Kenosha, awaiting deportation, unable to afford counsel or bond. Cesar’s first child, a U.S. citizen, is due to be born any day now.

In order for Chicago to remain a global city, new Americans like me must be able to walk down the street without fearing that our friends and family will be targeted for deportation. When local police cooperate with ICE, it sends a chill through our communities. How can we live in a city where we must fear those who are tasked to protect and serve?

Special Film Screenings in Chicago: "London River"

2012-02-16T08:15:00.000-08:00

For one week only, the Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago will be screening the film London River:

A 2005 terrorist attack brings two worried parents to London--a Guernsey widow (Blethyn) who hasn't heard from her daughter, and an African immigrant (Kouyaté) in search of the son he abandoned long ago. Their paths cross and unexpectedly intertwine as they ride a roller-coaster of hope and dread in search of their lost children. This bittersweet, immensely touching drama showcases two great performances, with the flighty Blethyn (SECRETS AND LIES) and the dignified Kouyaté (DIRTY PRETTY THINGS) counterpointing each other beautifully.

London River is showing from February 17-23, 2012 at Gene Siskel Film Center - 164 N. State Street, Chicago, IL. Show times at Film Center Website.

Tickets are $11 for general admission, $7 for students, $6 for Film Center members. Tickets can be bought through Ticketmaster.

UAO shows strong presence at ICIRR recent summit

2012-02-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

United African Organization at ICIRR Immigrant Integration Summit

Earlier this month, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) hosted its 2nd annual Immigrant Integration Summit - “One Nation, One Dream”. The Summit included workshops for community leaders and advocates, citizenship clinics, a youth civic leadership academy meeting and a resource fair. United African Organization had a strong presence at the Summit (see above).

More than 1,500 people attended the summit, joined by 50 of Illinois’s most powerful elected officials and dignitaries, including Governor Pat Quinn, US Senator Dick Durbin, US Representatives Luis Gutierrez and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, Illinois Senate President John Cullerton, and Senate Republican Caucus Chair Senator Matt Murphy.

More images and reports are available on the ICIRR website.

Talk on DRC on Feb 15, 4:30pm at UIC

2012-02-08T13:54:00.000-08:00

The UIC Department of French and Francophone Studies, in coordination with Congonova, the Center for Research on the Congo and several other UIC Departments, PRESENTS:

"Thresholds of Ideology in Congolese Youth: Afrocentrism, Europhilia, and Nothingness"

Speaker: Emmanuel Bueya, S.J.

Bueyla is a Jesuit priest, Ph.D. candidate in Philosophy at Boston College, and a founding member of Congonova, a group of young Congolese intellectuals and activists devoted to the edification of the DRC. Father Emmanuel’s dissertation research is focused on United States Foreign Policy in Congo.

This is the 5th Lecture in the Year-Long Series THE CONGO: RECLAIMING ITS DESTINY

WEDNESDAY | FEBRUARY 15th | 4:30 p.m.

Institute for the Humanities

(lower level of Stevenson Hall, 701 S. Morgan St.)

Reception to follow

Film Screening about Somali Refugees Tonight

2012-02-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

TONIGHT:

Join Partnership for the Advancement of Refugee Rights (PARR), the African and Caribbean Students Association (ACSA), and Invisible Children at University of Chicago for a screening of "Rain In a Dry Land"!

When: Wednesday, February 8th at 8:30pm

Where: Harper Building, Room 103, 1116 E 59th street, Chicago, IL

Samosas will be served

"In 2004, thirteen thousand Somali refugees realized their dream of coming to America. They are now living in fifty cities across the country, becoming the largest African group from a single minority to settle in the United States at one time. RAIN IN A DRY LAND chronicles two years in the lives of two extended Somali families as they leave Africa to face new challenges in a strange new land. The film begins in January, 2004, at the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya, where our featured families are stunned by what they learn about America in their "Cultural Orientation" class: refrigerators, stoves, bathtubs, elevators, stairs, buildings taller than one storey, schools. How will these families who speak no English manage to survive in America?"

One Africa Campaign - Momentum is Building!

2012-02-03T14:57:00.000-08:00

Have you signed our One Africa petition? If so, thank you! If not, click HERE now to take action! Keep the momentum going!

Even if you live outside the US, this campaign affects you. U.S. Foreign Policy affects us all - join us and tell the US State Department loud and clear to make North Africa part of its Bureau of African Affairs!

Alie Kabba chosen among top 100 African American leaders in US!

2012-02-03T09:55:00.000-08:00

UAO's Alie Kabba chosen among The Grio's top 100

UAO Executive Director Alie Kabba has been chosen as one of the top African American leaders in the U.S. by MNBC's The Grio. Congratulations Alie! See The Grio's feature on Alie Kabba!

CAN TV Tonight, 6:30pm CT: UAO and ICIRR's Immigration Integration Summit

2012-02-01T09:27:00.000-08:00

Tonight on CAN TV (Channel 21, Cable Television) at 6:30pm (Central Time), UAO Executive Director Alie Kabba will talk to staff from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR).

ICIRR is hosting its 2nd Annual Immigration Integration Summit on Saturday, February 4, 2012, from 9am-1pm at Malcolm X College, 1900 West Van Buren, Chicago, IL.

Don't miss tonight's show!

For previous show, check out the UAO video channel.

Education is Power - 2nd Annual Illinois Immigrant Integration Summit

2012-01-31T07:16:00.000-08:00

Click for larger image

This Saturday, February 4, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) is holding its 2nd Annual Immigrant Integration Summit. This Summit is themed: Education is Power

Date: Saturday, February 4, 2012
Time: 9am-1pm
Venue: Malcolm X College, 1900 West Van Buren, Chicago, IL

Registration information available on ICIRR website.

At the Summit, ICIRR will:

Host a Naturalization Workshop, assisting legal permanent residents fill out their U.S. citizenship forms.
Launch their Uniting America civic engagement program; a partnership between ICIRR, the State of Illinois, and Americorps to unite native-born citizens with immigrant communities through volunteerism.
Ratify their 2012 Policy Platform.
Hold policy workshops on issues ranging from Health and Human Services to Deportations to Running for Local School Council.
Plan their immigrant voter mobilization program for 2012.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to get to the heart of issues in immigrant communities, get some valuable advice and come together with others to build a movement for positive change.

Click to register

An Evening with Hugh Masekela: Saturday, Feb 18th in Evanston, IL

2012-01-30T09:15:00.000-08:00

The ANC (African National Congress) Centenary Committee, Chicago-Midwest and Northwestern University presents:

An Evening with Hugh Masekela - The Jabulani Tour

VIP tickets through the centenary committee includes reception: $25 for adults and $10 for students. Last chance for VIP tickets!
RSVP by 2/2 to vickie.casanova@yahoo.com

If these tickets have run out from the centenary committee, you can also get tickets via Northwestern University website.

Date: Saturday, February 18, 2012
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Pick-Staiger Hall, Northwestern University, 50 Arts Circle Drive Evanston, IL 60208

Hugh Masekela is a legendary South African musician. He is best known for his work as a jazz composer and trumpeter. According to the concert website, Masekela also plays the trumpet, flugelhorn, and cornet, has long been a major player on international jazz, pop, and world music scenes. He is also a well-known anti-apartheid campaigner and spent many years in exile in the United States with his then wife Miriam Makeba. He has collaborated with, among others, Bob Marley, Herb Alpert, Harry Belafonte, Paul Simon, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Masekela is touring the United States to promote his newest album, Jabulani.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to see a great African musician live!

Panel Discussion on Sat, Feb 11: ANC and African Liberation Movements

2012-01-26T11:12:00.000-08:00

To mark the 100th anniversary of the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa, the United African Organization (UAO) invites you to:

A panel discussion and multimedia presentation on the ANC's links to other liberation struggles in Africa, and the contributions of African countries to the struggle against apartheid.
We will open the event with some clips from Have You Heard from Johannesburg, a series of documentaries by Connie Fields about the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.

Our panelists are: Prexy Nesbitt (on Mozambique and Angola), James Thindwa (on Zimbabwe), Joshua Ngoma (on Zambia) and Fatuma Karuma (Tanzania).

There will be time for questions and comments from the audience.

Date: Saturday, February 11, 2012
Time: 3:30pm-6:00pm

Venue: Bronzeville Room
6th Floor, IIT Tower Building
10 West 35th Street

Chicago, IL 60616

Please RSVP:
Online
Or via email: events@uniteafricans.org

Or via phone: 312-949-9980

Don't miss this fascinating event! Get your tickets now!

ONE AFRICA - Sign the petition: Tell US State Department that North Africa is Africa too!

2012-01-26T09:48:00.000-08:00

Tell US State Department that North Africa is Africa too! Sign the Petition!

ONE AFRICA CAMPAIGN

The United African Organization has launched a petition on Change.org, lobbying the U.S. Department of State to include the whole African continent under its Bureau of African Affairs.

Why? Because the State Department's Bureau of African Affairs, led by Assistant Secretary Johnnie Carson, currently excludes Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia and Western Sahara from its agenda.

Instead, the aforementioned countries are grouped with the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, together with Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Syria, Saudi Arabia and others.

This distinction is based on false labels and outdated racist categorization with no empirical validity. The artificial distinction between North Africa and the rest of Africa could be perceived as a balkanization scheme, which negatively impacts US foreign policy relations throughout the entire continent of Africa.

North Africa is geographically and historically part of the African continent, and all fifty-three (53) independent African states, including North African countries, are represented in the African Union (AU).

We strongly believe that it would be far more productive for the State Department to engage with the entire continent of Africa, including North Africa, under its Bureau of African Affairs.

We are one Africa, from the Cape to Cairo, indivisible and bound together! Therefore, no square inch of African land should be excluded from African affairs.

Join the UAO in petitioning the U.S. Department of State to restructure its diplomatic bureaus so as to include the entire continent of Africa under its Bureau of African Affairs!

Read and sign the petition!

African Voices Podcast, Episode 4 online

2012-01-23T12:53:00.000-08:00

The first podcast of 2012! African Voices, Episode 4!

In this episode:

News and events from the African community in Illinois this month.
Top news stories from the African continent.
How to get employment advice from the UAO.
Africans in Chicago interview with Fatimata Traore, President of Illinois Association of Hair braiders.
Music from Chicago-based duo Survivors, made up of Johnny T from Rwanda and Jeanri from Haiti.

CLICK TO LISTEN

If you would like to contribute news, events, issues, interviews or music to our podcast, email us: podcasts@uniteafricans.org or call: (312) 949 9980 between 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri.Click this link to see the full details of news, events and music featured on the podcast.

Nigerian student in Washington faces deportation

2012-01-17T09:48:00.000-08:00

DreamActivist.org reports that Nigerian student Al Chisom, a senior at Central Washington University, is due to be deported from the U.S. Chisom's father, a journalist who exposed corruption in Nigeria, was assassinated in 1995. After his father's death, Chisom and his mother came to the U.S. to seek asylum. Unfortunately, in 2005, due to an attorney's error, asylum was not granted and Okere's mother was deported back to Nigeria. She is currently in hiding. Chisom, who arrived in the U.S. when he was 5, is an honor-roll student in Washington and aspires to be a doctor. He is also a DREAM-Act eligible student. However, ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) now wants to deport Chisom back to Nigeria. Chisom has made his life in the U.S. In a video online, he says:

"ICE wants to deport me to a place I don't remember, a language I don't know. I am not a criminal."

To sign the petition to urge ICE not to deport Chisom, click here.

See Chisom's appeal in the video below:

A DreamActivist blogger wrote about Chisom's situation for MLK day. Other young people face similar struggles to Chisom. To find out more, go to DreamActivist.org.

2012/2013 Davis-Putter Scholarship for students working for social justice

2012-01-12T12:57:00.000-08:00

The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund aids people active in movements for social and economic justice. These need-based scholarships are awarded to students who are able to do academic work at the college or university level and who are active in the progressive movement. Early recipients worked for civil rights, against McCarthyism and for peace in Vietnam. Recent grantees have been active in the struggle against racism, sexism, homophobia and other forms of oppression; building the movement for economic justice; and creating peace through international anti-imperialist solidarity. Applicants must have participated in activities in the US, and there is a strong preference for applicants who plan on working in this country.

The maximum grant available from the Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund is $10,000 per year (from July 1 through June 30). Grants are disbursed to cover each separate semester, quarter or term during which the grantee is attending school. Grants must be used in the year they are awarded and cannot be deferred or carried over. Recipients must reapply each year support is sought. Applications must be postmarked no later than April 1. Applicants will be informed of decisions in July.

2012/2013 applications (along with information about the fund, past grantees, and the application process) are now available at www.davisputter.org. Deadline for applications is April 1st, 2012.

2nd Anniversary of Haiti Earthquake

2012-01-12T12:32:00.000-08:00

Let us have a moment of reflection today for all the victims, as we recognize the second anniversary of the Haiti quake. Our thoughts are with our Haitian friends in Chicago, Haiti and all over the world.

See this slideshow on Haiti: Two Years On from South African newspaper the Mail & Guardian

This SATURDAY, 2pm: Alie Kabba's WVON radio show on DRC

2012-01-12T07:46:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, 14 January, 2:00pm-3:00pm, UAO's Executive Director Alie Kabba will focus his WVON AM1690 radio show, Africa Speaks, on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). During the show, Dr. Kabba will be on the line with Maurice Carney from Friends of the Congo. Friends of the Congo is an organization based in Washington DC that raises consciousness around the challenge of the Congo as supports Congolese institution as they try to bring about peaceful change.

Alie Kabba hosts a monthly show on Chicago's WVON, AM1690. The radio station provides an interactive forum for the African American community to discuss current, social, economic, and political issues. Africa Speaks will feature discussion on issues affecting the African continent.

Don't forget to tune in Saturday, January 14 at 2:00pm (CST) as we focus on the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. You can listen live on www.wvon.com, and call-in during the show with your comments or questions.

African Voices air-times in January on Legend Talk Radio

2012-01-12T07:33:00.001-08:00

African Voices podcast will be airing on our partner community radio station, Legend Talk Radio, at the following times this month:

Mondays: 12pm – 1pm; 6pm – 7pm
Thursdays: 12pm – 1pm
Fridays: – 7pm – 8pm

To listen on our cell phone (free), dial 832-280-0017

You can also log on live to Legend Talk Radio online to listen.

What is the proposed Family Unity Waiver?

2012-01-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

Last week, the Obama administration announced that it would propose a Family Unity Waiver. What does this mean?

The waiver would make it possible for some close relatives of US citizens who qualify for legal status to process their applications more quickly and easily. According to the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), the proposal is "a significant step to enable spouses, sons, and daughters of US citizens to gain legal status without needing to face long-term separation from their families."

Under the current system, relatives of US citizens have to return to their home countries in order to apply for legal status. Once they have left the US though, there is no telling how long it will take to process their application or even if their application will be approved. As a result, many people currently face long term separation from their family members who are citizens in the US. The proposed Waiver would allow relatives of US citizens to have their applications processed while they are still in the US. Leaving the country and coming back again would therefore only be a formality and not a long-term separation.

However, ICIRR warns against complacency because the Family Unity Waiver is a proposal and not law - the Family Unity Waiver "does not by itself change any existing legal standards, and does not entitle anyone to legal status or create any new program to apply for one." There is still work to be done to make proposals like this reality and improve the lives of countless immigrants to the United States.

For more information on the Family Unity Waiver, check out ICIRR's fact sheet or attend a training that ICIRR is holding on:

Saturday, February 4, 2012, at Malcolm X College, as part of its Integration Summit.

Film about Chad screening this Friday

2012-01-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

Un homme qui crie / A Screaming Man
Friday, January 13, 2012 - 7:00pm

As part of the The Tournées Festival of New French Cinema (January 6-February 3, 2012) at University of Chicago, the Film Studies Center will be screening a film from Chad called Un homme qui crie / A Screaming Man. Here's the description

"Working on a scale both intimate (a father’s wounded ego) and epic (a nation torn apart by civil war), writer-director Mahamat-Saleh Haroun creates a tender but unsentimental portrait of present-day Chad, simultaneously unfolding private and national tragedies through the tale of a father, a son and a gleaming swimming pool."

(Mahamat-Saleh Haroun, Chad/France/Belgium, 2010, French and Arabic w. English subtitles, 35mm, 92 min)

The screening is free and open to the public but you are encouraged to make reservations. It takes place at 5811 South Ellis Ave, Cobb Hall 306, Chicago, Illinois 60637

UAO interviews Funeka Sihlali about ANC centenary and South Africa on CANTV

2012-01-05T10:35:00.000-08:00

Last night UAO Executive Director Alie Kabba interviewed Funeka Sihlali, a South African who has been living in Chicago in the 1970s. In this fascinating interview, Funeka talks about how she left South Africa due, in part, to her involvement in protests as a nursing student. She speaks about the solidarity she found among the African-American community in Chicago, and the role African-Americans played in the struggle against apartheid. She also talks about the African National Congress' centenary celebrations this weekend and events planned throughout the year to celebrate its 100th birthday.

Don't miss UAO on CANTV tonight! Feature on ANC's (South Africa) 100th anniversary

2012-01-04T13:47:00.000-08:00

The UAO's next CANTV show takes place TONIGHT! That's Wednesday, January 4th from 6:30pm-7:00pm. Tune into Channel 21 on Cable Television to watch or check the UAO's video channel later in the week.

Tonight UAO Executive Director Alie Kabba speaks to Funeka Sihlali, a South African immigrant to Chicago. Funeka arrived in Chicago in the 1970s and has been a long-time contributor to the South African and African community in Chicago. 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of South Africa's African National Congress (ANC), the party that spearheaded the struggle against apartheid and was elected to government in 1994 under the leadership of Nelson Mandela. Celebrations will take place this weekend all around South Africa and the world. Funeka will talk about the history of the liberation struggle in South Africa about what is planned for the ANC Centenary in Chicago on Friday January 6-Sunday January 8, 2012.

Ghanaian music legend Koo Nimo visits Chicago, gives free concert

2012-01-04T11:04:00.000-08:00

85 year old Ghanaian music legend Koo Nimo is in Chicago next week. Sponsored by the Northwestern Program for African Studies, Nimo will be participating in 2 FREE events:

Concert: Koo Nimo & The Occidental Highlife Association
Date: January 11, 2012, 8:30 pm

Venue: Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago

Palm Wine Guitar Workshop with Koo Nimo

Date: January 12, 2012, 7:00 pm

Venue: Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago

Registration required - go to Old Town School of Folk Website to register

Look out for other upcoming events over the next week, featuring Koo Nimo. To listen to Koo Nimo's music or find out more about him, see Koo Nimo on MySpace and The Story of Koo Nimo, an upcoming book in print and online.

Reminder: ANC Centenary Celebrations THIS WEEKEND

2012-01-03T10:53:00.000-08:00

A reminder that a series of events takes place in Chicago this weekend to celebrate the 100th birthday of the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa. The kickoff for the ANC Centenary will be held on Sunday, January 8, 2012 at Trinity United Church of Christ (TUCC) located at 400 W. 95th St. in Chicago, IL from 3-5pm. To celebrate this important and historic event there will be a panel discussion on the RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT AND THE ANTI-APARTHEID STRUGGLE. The panelists include: Prof. Harold Rogers, Moderator, Dr. Rachel Rubin, UIC, Attorney Stan Willis, Prof. Johann Buis, Wheaton College and Nicole Lee, Executive Director of TRANSAFRICA.

On Friday, January 6th at 7:00pm Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright will lecture on the role of the Church in Africa. Rev. Wright's lecture is part of the Kickoff.

For more information, contact:

Chicago-Midwest ANC Centenary Coordinating Committee
P.O. Box 497327
Chicago, IL 60649-7327
Email: anc.centenary@gmail.com
Fax: 773-684-6967
www.chimidANC100.com

World Premiere of documentary 'Beneath the Blindfold' in Chicago

2012-01-03T10:43:00.000-08:00

Beneath the Blindfold is a Human Rights Documentary by Ines Sommer and Kathy Bergerfollows. It follows the stories of four torture survivors, one of whom is Liberian. Here's the description:

"A nursing home aide from Africa. An actor from Colombia. A U.S. Navy veteran from Chicago and a physician from Guatemala. So different at first glance, they have a horrific experience in common: they all have been tortured. Rarely given a voice, they are among the 500,000 torture survivors who live in the U.S. As they share their powerful stories, Beneath the Blindfold (2012, 80 min.) follows them through the daunting steps of building new lives, careers, and relationships. And despite the continued psychological and physical fallout from their experience, they feel empowered to speak out and become public advocates for an end to torture." - Beneath the Blindfold website

Film screenings:

Times and Dates:
January 13th @ 8:15pm
January 19th @ 8pm

A 6:30pm reception preceding the Friday, Jan 13 screening. \

Venue:
Gene Siskel Film Center
164 N. State Street, Chicago, IL 60601

(312) 846-2600
http://www.siskelfilmcenter.org/

Tickets Available at the Gene Siskel Film Center Box Office and www.ticketmaster.com

Directors Ines Sommer and Kathy Berger will be present for a Q & A at both screenings, along with Matilde de la Sierra, Donald Vance and Mario Venegas, who are all featured in the film.

African Voices Holiday Edition with Malian band Tinariwen

2011-12-23T13:56:00.000-08:00

Tinariwen's music has often been associated with the Tuareg rebelion. In fact, they fought during many years in the southern Sahara for the rights of the Tuareg people. But now, the Malian band, which was born in 1982 in exile, in Algeria to be more specific, has changed the machine gun into the guitar and harmonic voices. Their musical creations call for political awakening and consciousness while dealing with exile issues, repression, and political claims. They mix with verve traditional and modern tones, traditional tones which are symbolized by the drums and modern tones which are symbolized by the electric guitar. Tinariwen toured Chicago recently to celebrate the release of their new album, Tassili. United African Organization’s Cheikh Diop was there to interview them in French. To listen to the podcast and/or read the English translation, visit the African Voices Podcast website.

Happy Holidays!

African Diaspora Marketplace business competition now open

2011-12-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

The African Diaspora Marketplace (ADM) was launched last year, with support from USAID and Western Union Company. The ADM encourages economic growth and employment by supporting U.S.-based African Diaspora entrepreneurs with innovating and high-impact ideas for start-up and established businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. Click here for a list of previous winning projects.

ADM has just launched the next competition for Africans in the diaspora to submit their business plans and receive grants. The grants give priority to high-impact sectors in Africa, including agribusiness, renewable energy, and information and communication technology (ICT).

See the press release below:

The African Diaspora Marketplace II business plan competition portal is now open! Its now time to submit your application. You have time period of a little over a month in which to submit your application. The ADM II will be accepting application through February 3, 2012 and 5 p.m. (17:00) EST. Please click this link to submit your application: ADM II Application

For details about the ADM II business plan competition please visit: http://www.diasporamarketplace.org/. Please make sure you read and understand the guidelines. Remember the ADM will award 15-30 winning businesses with matching partnership grants approximately USD 50,000.

Please make sure you are aware of the timelines (click here: Timeline)

Competition Timeline and Key Steps

Date	Activity
December 16, 2011 – February 3, 2012	Call for proposals closes at 5 p.m., EST (21:00 GMT)
Mid-April 2012 Announcement of Finalists	Finalists will be asked to submit a detailed business plan. The exact number of finalists will be determined by the availability of total funds.
Mid May 2012 Submission of finalists' business plans	Finalists will be invited to the 2012 African Diaspora Marketplace. Finalists must attend the ADM event in order to be eligible to receive grant funding. Finalists are also expected to cover travel costs (including the cost of accommodation) to and in Washington, DC.
June 2012: African Diaspora Marketplace Event, Washington, DC	At the ADM event, an independent jury comprised of the partners members and leading individuals in the diaspora and international business community will evaluate each proposal and conduct a face-to-face interview with each team in order to select winners.

Contact Robert Sichinga (email: rsichinga@strategicshift.net or phone: 424 4420 424 ) if you have questions, but please make sure you have read the content of the website (http://www.diasporamarketplace.org/) before you call.

Feature on local organization RefugeeOne in Chicago Tribune

2011-12-22T08:49:00.000-08:00

Today's Chicago Tribune features an article on local non-profit, RefugeeOne. Founded in 1982 as Interfaith Refugee and Immigration Ministries, the organization helps resettle 400-500 refugees every year. Many of the refugees RefugeeOne helps settle are from Africa - in recent times especially from Sudan and Somalia. View Tribune article on RefugeeOne.

ANC Centenary Celebrations to take place in Chicago next month

2011-12-20T14:24:00.000-08:00

Chicago based anti-apartheid activists from the United States, South Africa and beyond have organized a program of events to celebrate the centenary of the African National Congress' (ANC) founding in January. The Chicago celebrations, January 6-January 8, coincide with centenary celebrations in South Africa and around the world. Look out for notice in the next week of a UAO event to commemorate the ANC's 100th birthdaty! The following Chicago events will be taking place:

Friday, January 6, 2012

7:00 p.m.

Lecture by Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr.,

at Trinity United Church of Christ, 400 West 95th Street,

Chicago, Illinois 60628

Sunday, January 8, 2012

8:30 am

Sermon by South African Priest Fr. Thulani Magwaza

at St. Sabina Catholic Church, 1210 West 78th Place,

Chicago, Illinois

7:30 am, 11:00 a.m., 6:00 p.m.

Worship services commemoration of ANC Centenary

at Trinity United Church of Christ

3:30 p.m.

Panel Discussion on ANC Centenary

at Trinity United Church of Christ

The African National Congress (ANC) was founded in 1912 in Bloemfontein, South Africa. The ANC was instrumental in charting a course of multi-racialism in South Africa, drawing into its ranks a broad spectrum of South African society, working together to dismantle apartheid and set South Africa on course for a better future. In South Africa's first real democratic elections in 1994, the ANC was elected to government and Nelson Mandela became President.

UPDATE: One DREAM-eligible student released, another in custody

2011-12-19T10:52:00.000-08:00

Immigrants who arrived in the United States without documents but who are eligible for the DREAM Act are arrested almost everyday by ICE (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement). Many of those arrested are young people who have been to school or University in the United States and who contribute much to US society. Dreamactivist.org features two of those young people on its blog today. DreamActivist is the Undocumented Students Action and Resource Network. On Friday, ICE dropped its case against Gustavo, a high-school student in Oregon. But another student, Cesar Montoya remains in immigration police custody in Michigan. To find out how you can support Cesar's release or to read about other students in a similar position to Cesar, visit Dream Activist's website.

UPDATE: Thanks to the efforts of many who lobbied for his released, Cesar is now free! Just in time to enjoy the holidays.

End your year with Chicago African Night!

2011-12-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

LISTEN TO CHICAGO AFRICAN NIGHT COMMERCIAL

Afriches is hosting its annual Chicago African Night on Friday, December 30, 2011! Afriches is a Chicago-based non-profit that promotes African arts and culture in the United States. Chicago Africa Night is a social event organized to showcase Africa's rich diversity and to bring together people from Africa and elsewhere to celebrate the start of a new year.

Celebrate the richness of Africa through live dance, music, fashion, and Storytelling. Everyone of all walks of life is encouraged to join at this event. There will be food from all over Africa, including Ethiopia, Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria and Zimbabwe.

Date: Friday, December 30, 2011
Time: 7pm
Venue: Irish-American Heritage Center, 4625 N. Knox Avenue, Chicago IL
Tickets: $10 (part of the proceeds go to aiding the Somali relief effort)

To get tickets, visit Afriches.org or call 708-915-0974

Keep updated on the event with the Afriches website, blog and Facebook page.

Underemployment in African community in Chicago - student video

2011-12-19T07:30:00.000-08:00

Northwestern University journalism student Dan Tham has created a video piece highlighting underemployment in the African immigrant and refugee community in Chicago. Tham profiles Nigerian cab-driver Edwin Egbejimba, who has a degree in Psychology. Tham's video is one of several projects journalism students in Chicago have recently produced on the subject of underemployment. Columbia College journalism student, Carla Pesono, also has a video article online. Click below to watch Tham's video:

African Voices Episode 3 now available!

2011-12-16T14:17:00.000-08:00

LISTEN TO AFRICAN VOICES EPISODE 3

African Voices Podcast, Episode 3 is now available! Highlights from the December episode:

News and events from the African community in Illinois this month.
Information about the UAO’s free ESL (English as a Second Language) classes.
Feature on Liberia and Sierra Leone: Interviews with authors Jonny Steinberg from South Africa (Little Liberia) and Bobby Gboyor from Sierra Leone (Clouds of a Ghoulish War). Full versions of the interviews will be available soon.
Music from the new album Tassili by Malian band Tinariwen, who played in Chicago recently.

Look out for next week’s Special Holiday Edition of African Voices Podcast, featuring an interview with Tinariwen and more of their music.

If you would like to contribute news, events, issues, interviews or music to our podcast, email us: podcasts@uniteafricans.org or call: (312) 949 9980 between 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri.

LISTEN TO AFRICAN VOICES EPISODE 3

UAO's Alie Kabba on WVON, Sat 17 Dec, 2pm-3pm (CST)

2011-12-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

UAO Executive Director, Dr. Alie Kabba, will be on WVON on Saturday 17 December

United African Organization Executive Director, Dr. Alie Kabba, will be on WVON 1690 AM tomorrow, Saturday 17 from 2:00pm-3:00pm (CST). You can tune into the show from the Chicago area or listen online at: wvon.com. Dr. Kabba will be speaking about land grabs on the African continent. The show will be broadcast from WVON's 20th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration at Chicago State University's Convocation Center. The Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration is free and open to all - Rev Al Sharpton is the keynote speaker. Don't forget to tune in at 2:00pm (CST) tomorrow to listen!

ICIRR reports from National Immigrant Convention in Alabama

2011-12-16T10:08:00.000-08:00

The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights has posted some reports from the National Immigrant Convention currently taking place in Alabama. ICIRR delegates are in Alabama to attend the Immigrant National Convention, support the local organizing there, and to learn more about what can be done to advance the rights of immigrants in 2012. Click to view the ICIRR blog posts.

UAO's Garcon Morweh on building solidarity on the South Side

2011-12-16T10:05:00.000-08:00

Garcon Morweh, Uniting America Fellow at the United African Organization, recently wrote about some his collaboration with community groups on Chicago's South Side. In a piece for the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, Garcon describes the partnership he is building with Metropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilization (MAGIC). As part of his work as a Uniting America, Garcon will:

"Recruit long time residents and new Americans to work together in the areas of U.S. citizenship, ESL classes, and after school tutoring. Immigrant and long-term residents will also work together organizing service events and Community Unity events to share food, culture, and ideas."

Congressman Rush honored for work on African Investment

2011-12-14T12:50:00.000-08:00

Congressman Bobby L. Rush (Dem, IL) will receive the prestigious Leon H. Sullivan Foundation’s Champion of African Diaspora Economic Growth Award on Thursday, December 15, 2011. Rush will be honored for his work in Congress towards strengthening U.S.-Africa trade relations.In acknowledging Rush’s work, Foundation Chairman Ambassador Andrew Young wrote:

This year, you have distinguished yourself as a great advocate for the African Diaspora with your exemplary contribution to promoting Africa’s economic growth. We salute you for being a visionary by introducing H.R. 656, the African Investment and Diaspora Act (AIDA) of 2010. This legislation is a milestone in strengthening U.S. Africa trade relations.

The AIDA Act directs the President to appoint a special representative for United States-Africa Trade with the State Department. It directs the State Department to Establish the Office of United States Africa Trade, sets up five public outreach, education and liaison centers and requires that the U.S. government consult with African Union and United Nations agencies about Africa-related trade and economic development.

In accepting the Sullivan Award, Rush says he believes the reconnection of Africans and African Americans is essential. Rush said:

The African Diaspora constitutes a growing economic force for the U.S. economy, including African immigrants, who census data reports are the most highly educated of any immigrant group in this nation. I believe the reconnection of America’s workers with Africa’s workers will spark economic growth and development that will benefit us all.

The awards ceremony takes place in Washington DC. More information on the 2011 Sullivan Honors can be found at www.thesullivanfoundation.org.

Congratulations to Congressman Rush!

Tanzanians in Chicagoland celebrate 50th Anniversary of Independence

2011-12-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

Tanzanian Independence celebrations on Saturday, December 10, 2011 in Des Plaines, IL

Tanzanians and their friends in the Chicagoland area came together over the weekend to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Tanzania's Independence. Friday, December 9, 2011 marked the 50th year, to the day, that Tanzania gained its independence from Britain. The Tanzanian Community Association of the Midwest (USA) hosted an event to recognize this special anniversary. You can see pictures from the event at the Tanzanian Community Association Facebook page. Congratulations to our Tanzanian brothers and sisters!

Don't miss UAO Leadership Workshop THIS SATURDAY!

2011-12-14T08:09:00.000-08:00

Leaders,

You are invited to attend our next Leadership Development workshop on Saturday, December 17, 2011 from 9:00am - 1:00pm at 10 West 35th Street, 6th Floor, Chicago, IL 60616.

This free workshop will walk participants through the process of securing 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status for your organizations as well as compliance requirements that must be met to avoid losing the status.

As you continue to strength your organizational capacity and sustainability, it is very crucial to secure and maintain your tax-exempt status. It comes with many benefits and challenges, especially for new and emerging organizations.

The workshop is free. Please RSVP at training@uniteafricans.org today, and encourage your leadership team to attend this vital workshop. It is is an integral part of the UAO's year-long African Leadership Development Program.

See you at the workshop on Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 9:00am at 10 West 35th Street, 6th floor.

Light refreshment will be served!

Alie Kabba, Executive Director, United African Organization

UAO Leadership Workshop

Date: Saturday, December 17, 2011

Time: 9:00am-1:00pm

Venue: 6th floor, 10 West 35th Street, Chicago IL

Topic: Securing 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status for your organizations

Speaker: Dr. Alie Kabba, UAO

For students in the US: Washington University Senegal Summer Program

2011-12-14T07:18:00.000-08:00

Washington University is offering a Summer Program opportunity for 2012 (deadline to apply: February 15, 2012), where students get to spend a month in Dakar, Senegal. The program is open to all students in the United States; students DO NOT have to be at Washington University to apply. From Washington University:

The Washington University Summer Program to Senegal is designed for students who want to build their conversational French language skills, learn more about Francophone West Africa, and experiment with field research. Dakar, Senegal provides the perfect opportunity to explore themes in African and Francophone studies because of its geographical space and unique history. The program includes excursions outside of Dakar to Goree Island, Saint Louis, Keur Moussa, Touba, Tivaoune, and Thies.

Eligibility: 3.0 minimum GPA; three or more semesters of college French.

Credits: Students will receive 6 credits for the two mandatory courses: three units of French, and three units for a 300-level African Studies course titled "Senegal: History, Politics and Culture".

Housing: Students will be housed in the Mermoz district of Dakar. Room and board will include three meals a day and laundry service. Students will also have access to internet facilities. In Saint Louis, Senegal, students will stay at La Louisiane and attend lectures at Universite Gaston Berger.

Program Dates: Approximately June 1 - July 10, 2012

Application Deadline: February 15, 2012

Program Cost: $4000. The fee covers 6 WU credits, room, board, books, other course materials and class trips outside of Dakar. International airfare is additional and expected not to exceed $2000.

For more information, please consult the Washington University Senegal Summer Program website.
Students may apply on-line on this website.

Apply for 2012 Immigration Reporting Program

2011-12-13T13:57:00.000-08:00

Fellowship Application Deadline: January 17

Institute for Justice and Journalism (IJJ) is accepting applications for its 2012 professional fellowship program, which will examine the contentious immigration issues playing out across the country on local, state and federal levels and their role in the 2012 election campaign.

Twelve Fellows will be selected to participate in the professional development program, which will help reporters cover legal, political and demographic developments involving immigration.

The program will provide journalists with facts, figures and perspectives to move beyond the typical campaign rhetoric on immigration. It also will examine the anticipated electoral impact of immigrants who have become newly eligible to vote.

The program, “Immigration in the Heartland: the 2012 Elections and Beyond,” will take place April 20-25 at the University of Oklahoma’s Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication and its Institute for Research and Training, which are partnering with IJJ in this program.

The Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation is the program’s funder.

The deadline for receipt of applications is Jan. 17.

Click here for program details and application form.

Questions may be directed to ijj@justnews.org

PLEASE SEND NAME AND EMAIL OF POTENTIAL APPLICANTS TO ijj.justnews.org AND WE WILL FOLLOW UP.

Website: www.justnews.org

See previous Immigration in Heartland projects: http://immigrationintheheartland.wordpress.com/

Arizona immigration laws to go before Supreme Court

2011-12-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

The Supreme Court in Washington DC

Yesterday the Supreme Court agreed to hear a case on Arizona's tough immigration laws. The Court will decide whether or not Arizona is allowed to implement its anti-immigration law, SB 1070. President Obama's administration has opposed SB 1070, saying it is inconsistent with Federal Immigration Law. In April 2011, the US Ninth Circuit Court, based in California, struck down some aspects of Arizona's SB 1070. One such aspect was the requirement that police question anyone they stop in Arizona about their immigration status. This meant that by law, police were required to determine a detainee's immigration status before they could be released. It also allowed police to question anyone about their immigration status without a warrant, if they "suspected" them of being illegal immigrants. Immigrant rights activists pointed out that the law would result in wide-spread racial profiling.

While parts of the Ninth Circuit in California blocked the state of Arizona from enforcing parts of the SB 1070 law, Arizona challenged that decision, asking the Supreme Court to review the case.

The state of Arizona's push to make life difficult for immigrants has continued, despite the recalling of Russell Pearce, architect of SB 1070 and President of the Arizona State Senate. Pearce, a tea-party representative, was recalled in early November, when citizens of the state organized against him across party lines. He was replaced by more moderate Republican Jerry Lewis, who originally opposed SB 1070. However, many of Pearce's ultra-right allies remain in the Arizona Senate.

The struggle for immigrant rights continues!

See articles on the Arizona Supreme Court Case by The New York Times and Huffington Post

Bill Gates Scholarship Opportunity for Minority Students

2011-12-13T07:04:00.000-08:00

The Gates Millennium Scholarship Program (GMS) will select 1,000 students next year to receive a good-through-graduation scholarship to use at any college of university of their choice. Scholars will also be provided with personal and professional development through their leadership program along with academic support throughout their college career. The deadline for submitting an application is Wednesday, January 11, 2012. To apply, visit www.gmsp.org.

TONIGHT: Listen to African Voices/Legend Talk interview with Bobby Gboyor

2011-12-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

TONIGHT: Tune into Legend Talk Radio on your cell phone (dial 1-832-280-0017) or via the internet at:

5:30PM CT (Chicago) / 6:30PM ET (Washington) / 3:30PM Pacific Time (California) to hear:

An interview with Bobby Gboyor, author of Clouds of a Ghoulish War (about the civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone in the 1990s)

The interview will also be made available as part of the next episode of the African Voices Podcast.

Legend Talk Radio and African Voices Podcast are collaborating to interview Mr. Gboyor. Bobby Gboyor was born in 1962 in Bambawo village, in Kenema District, Eastern Province of Sierra Leone. He is a graduate of the University of Sierra Leone and London South Bank University Department of Law. In 2007, he completed an L.L.M. in International Law at Georgetown University in Washington DC. Mr. Gboyor currently works in the Office of the Attorney General in Washington DC.

From the publishers (Publish America):

Clouds of a Ghoulish War is about the advent of the civil wars in Sierra Leone and Liberia in the 1990s. It describes real events that took place in real locations in both countries. The Author has endeavored to paint a macabre picture of the wars as seen through the eyes of defenseless families and individuals caught up in the pandemonium. To a large extent this is their story; a story of excruciating physical pain and intense emotional and psychological trauma.

The war stories explored in Clouds of a Ghoulish War are inextricably interwoven with the prevailing political and socio-economic conditions in both countries during the period under review--from the outbreak of the war in Liberia in 1989 to the invasion of Sierra Leone territory in 1991.

Details of the bitter experiences of Sierra Leoneans and Liberian refugees on Sierra Leone soil are explored after the war crossed the border into Sierra Leone.

Listen NOW to WBEZ: African food

2011-12-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

WBEZ's Worldview is running a segment right now on African foods. The station interviewed a number of African immigrants and refugees in Chicago about how they have adapted food from home in America. They are also speaking to an author on African cuisines. Tune into 91.5 in the Chicago area or Listen LIVE online.

You can now download today's Worldview episode at WBEZ's website. Or click here for direct download.

From WBEZ:

"We talk to James McCann, author of Stirring the Post: A History of African Cuisine. In his book, James uses African cooking as a lens to examine the continent’s multi-faceted social history and culture. And African immigrants tell us about the foods they miss most and how they attempt to recreate those dishes here in Chicago."

Kenyan Independence Day

2011-12-12T10:12:00.000-08:00

Jomo Kenyatta, first president of independent Kenya in 1963

Today marks the 48th anniversary of Kenya's independence from Britain. Congratulations to our Kenyan friends! The New York Times has a piece today on the significance of Kenya's independence to present-day Kenyans' struggles to bring abuses under British colonialism to account.

UAO Leadership Workshop next Saturday, December 17

2011-12-09T07:57:00.001-08:00

The UAO's next leadership workshop will take place on Saturday, December 17th from 9:00am - 1:00pm at 10 West 35th Street, 6th floor (University Room), Chicago, IL 60616.

The workshop forms part of the UAO's Leadership Development Program, a year-long initiative featuring talks by leaders in community associations all over Chicago. The goal of the Leadership Development Program is to equip leaders in Chicago's African community with the skills and knowledge to enrich their communities.

Saturday's workshop will cover the following important topics:

501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Status
Institutional Transparency and Accountability Mechanisms

The facilitator will be Dr. Alie Kabba:

Alie Kabba is Executive Director of the United African Organization (UAO), a Chicago-based coalition of African community-based associations dedicated to social and economic justice, civic participation, and empowerment of African immigrants and refugees in Illinois. Under his leadership, the UAO has become a highly visible and respected African-led advocacy organization with a strategic focus on grassroots organizing, leadership development, public policy advocacy, and community empowerment.

Please invite your network for this FREE leadership workshop. RSVP at training@uniteafricans.org.

See you on Saturday, December 17! Light refreshment will be served.

UAO discusses Tanzanian Independence on CANTV

2011-12-08T10:13:00.001-08:00

You can now watch the UAO's interview with Rachel Wassira of the Tanzanian Community Association of the Midwest. UAO Executive Director Alie Kabba interviewed Wassira on CANTV last night. They spoke about the Tanzanian independence struggle, Julius Nyere, and Tanzanians in the United States. The Tanzanian Community Association is hosting a celebration in Chicago on Saturday to mark Tanzania's 50th Anniversary of Independence. Scroll down below the video to see details of the celebration.

CAN TV - December 2011: Tanzanian Independence

The Tanzanian Community Association of the Midwest is hosting an event to celebrate Tanzanian independence:

Date: Saturday, December 10, 2011
Time: 6:00pm
Venue: 567 W. Algonquin Rd., Des Plaines, IL 60016

There will be Tanzanian food, music, dance and a fashion-show. For more information or to get tickets, Call (773) 474-4225, (630) 303-1478, (773) 593-7881 or (773) 507-7277.

15 Terrific TED Talks for African Studies Students

2011-12-08T07:20:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Online Colleges Blog for telling us about an article they have just published. Click to view:

15 Terrific TED Talks for African Studies Students

The talks concern issues pertinent to the African continent. They would be interesting for anyone interested in or with a tie to the continent. TED is a set of engaging conferences and talks, founded in the notion "ideas worth spreading".

Below is one of the 15 TED Talks selected:

John Kasaona: How poachers became caretakers

Namibian activist John Kasaona instituted an innovative initiative to reinvigorate his beloved homeland, particularly the Kunene Region. Benefiting both humans and the endangered animals sharing habitats with them, he’s developed caretaker positions for those needing steady employment. Some of these individuals once worked as poachers, now using their knowledge for preserving the species they once nearly wiped out.

IIT Enrichment Program for High School students

2011-12-08T07:02:00.001-08:00

The Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago is offering a FREE, year-round enrichment program for High School sophomores and juniors. The program includes:

hands-on summer experiences in STEM fields(science, technology, engineering, mathematics), as well as architecture, business, and psychology (weekdays June 25-July 20, 2012)
periodic workshops during the school year
college and career advising support
leadership skills training

To apply, go to the 2012-2013 IIT Boeing Scholars Academy website. The application will be due Tuesday, January 31, 2012.

Let friends and family in your community know about this opportunity!

50th Anniversary of Tanzania's Independence: Tune into CANTV tonight!

2011-12-07T12:01:00.001-08:00

Tanzania's first President, Julius Nyere, on the occasion of Tanzania's independence on December 9, 1961

Tonight (December 7), tune into Channel 21 at 6:30pm on cable television tonight to see the UAO's monthly talk show on issues relevant to the African community. Tonight's show focusses on Tanzania and the Tanzanian community in Chicago, to mark the 50th Anniversary of Tanzania's Independence! UAO Executive Director Dr. Alie Kabba will interview members of the Tanzanian Community Association of the Midwest. If you miss tonight's show you can always see it online later in the week at our UAO Video Channel.

The Tanzanian Community Association of the Midwest is hosting an event to celebrate Tanzanian independence:

Date: Saturday, December 10, 2011
Time: 6:00pm
Venue: 567 W. Algonquin Rd., Des Plaines, IL 60016

There will be Tanzanian food, music, dance and a fashion-show. For more information or to get tickets, Call (773) 474-4225, (630) 303-1478, (773) 593-7881 or (773) 507-7277.

Summer Grants for African Students: Send in nominations

2011-12-07T09:17:00.001-08:00

Harambe Entrepreneur Alliance (HEA) www.healliance.org is running a grant and mentorship program for young African students with new ideas to tackle challenges and opportunities in Africa. HEA is "a platform for young African entrepreneurs educated in leading colleges and universities in Asia, Europe and North America."

In partnership with international corporations such as Intel, GlaxoSmithKline and Nestle, the Harambe Entrepreneur Alliance is providing summer grants to young African students and recent graduates with entrepreneurial initiatives in Africa. Thanks to the Tony Blair Foundation, HEA Associates also have access to internship opportunities in the office of the Presidents of Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Liberia, as well as a growing number of international and African companies.

If you or anyone you know is a young African student who can benefit from these opportunities and mentorship program of established African professionals and entrepreneurs in Asia, Europe and North America, please enter their name and email address at healliance.org/nomination.

Final selection will be made from a competitive pool of over 600 applicants, so your nomination will be an essential component of our decision-making process. Selected applicants will be invited to attend HEA's 5th annual symposium at Yale, Harvard and Bretton Woods, taking place March 30-April 2, 2012.

These articles provide background on the Harambe Entrepreneur Alliance:

CNN Article: http://edition.cnn.com/2010/BUSINESS/10/27/african.expats.return/index.html

University World News:
http://www.universityworldnews.com/article.php?story=20110415201235524

Reminder: UAO hosts Citizenship workshop THIS SATURDAY

2011-12-06T11:28:00.001-08:00

This SATURDAY, the UAO is hosting a FREE citizenship workshop in collaboration with the Illinois Coalition for Refugee Rights:

Date: Sat, Dec 10, 2011
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 noon
Venue: Truman College1145 W. Wilsen AvenueChicago, IL 60640

LISTEN TO THE COMMERCIAL for the workshop

The workshops guide participants through the process of becoming US citizens. The advantage of becoming a US citizen is that you are protected against any possible changes in immigration law that might make you vulnerable to deportation. At the workshop, participants will receive:

- Assistance to complete the application for naturalization
- Legal consultation with an immigration attorney
- Information on how to apply for application fee waiver
- Study materials to prepare for the test and interview

The workshop is FREE. To register for this workshop or for more info, contact Cheikh Diop via cheikh.diop@uniteafricans.org or call (312) 949 9980.

MPI's Top Ten Migration Issues of 2011

2011-12-02T09:29:00.001-08:00

With the end of 2011 approaching, the Migration Policy Institute has listed their Top 10 Migration Issues of 2011. These include (click to view):

Economic Malaise Makes Immigrants a Target for Restrictive Legislation, Public Backlash - With unemployment rates remaining persistently high in the wake of the global economic crisis, ongoing turbulence in financial markets, and new austerity in public spending, anxious publics and governments trained their attention on immigration and immigrants during 2011.

The Arab Spring and Other Crises in Africa Displace More Than 1 Million People - The succession of displacement and refugee crises in the Arab Spring, Côte d'Ivoire, Somalia, and Sudan has been characterized as the most troubling in some time.

A Decade after 9/11, Enforcement Focus Prevails in the United States; Broader Immigration Reforms Remain Stalled - As the United States paused in September to mark the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, the enforcement paradigm that took hold immediately after the terrorist attacks showed no signs of waning.

Caught between Two Migration Realities, Mexico Passes New Immigration Legislation - In April 2011, the Mexican Congress unanimously approved an ambitious new migration law that sets out to address longstanding problems related to the immigration and transmigration of Central Americans and the emigration and return migration of Mexicans.

World Aids Day Edition: African Voices Podcast

2011-12-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

To mark World Aids Day, we interviewed Jonny Steinberg, author of Sizwe's Test, which tells a story of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa through the eyes of Sizwe, a young man living in a rural part of South Africa, where the virus has decimated his community. South Africa has one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS in the world - the prevalence rate is near 18%. In this interview, Steinberg talks about what can be done to combat the virus in Southern Africa and beyond. He also discusses the role that regional coalitions on the African continent can play in making sure preventative measures against the virus are put in place, and those already infected, can live a decent life.

CLICK TO LISTEN

UAO hosts Citizenship Workshop

2011-12-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

Citizenship Workshop on Nov 2

The UAO has teamed up with the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) to bring Citizenship workshops to the African community in Chicago.

The next workshop is on:

Date: Sat, Dec 10, 2011

Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm

Venue: Truman College

1145 W. Wilsen Avenue

Chicago, IL 60640

The workshops guide participants through the process of becoming US citizens. The advantage of becoming a US citizen is that you are protected against any possible changes in immigration law that might make you vulnerable to deportation. At the workshop, participants will receive:

Assistance to complete the application for naturalization
Legal consultation with an immigration attorney
Information on how to apply for application fee waiver
Study materials to prepare for the test and interview

The workshop is FREE. To register for this workshop or for more info, contact Cheikh Diop via cheikh.diop@uniteafricans.org or call (312) 949 9980.

Africans in Chicago: UAO's Oral History Project gets a facelift

2011-12-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

The UAO's Africans in Chicago Oral History Project has had a facelift. You can check out the new website at:

www.africansinchicago.org

The Africans in Chicago Oral History Project is collecting the stories of African immigrants and refugees about their journeys to Chicago. The project aims to document the challenges, successes and acculturation experiences of African immigrants and refugees.

The Africans in Chicago project uses an interactive website to engage the public about the history of our community. The website uses maps, timelines, photographs, virtual walking tours and other documents to situate Africans in the Chicago cityscape and contextualize individuals' stories within African and U.S. history.

The Africans in Chicago Oral History Project is founded in the idea that knowledge should inform actions. We hope that providing an open, creative space for people to listen and connect through storytelling will promote learning and civic engagement, and serve as a peaceful vehicle for change.

Get Involved! Be Inspired! Visit www.africansinchicago.org

Columbia College Student does piece on Underemployment in Chicago's African community

2011-12-01T07:11:00.000-08:00

Columbia College journalism student, Carla Pesono, has created a video on underemployment in the African community in Illinois. By continent, immigrants to the US from Africa are the most educated but also underemployed. Carla features the work the UAO is doing together with the community, in an attempt to overcome the challenges that African immigrants and refugees face.

UPDATED: World Aids Day Lecture at Northwestern, Dec 1, 2011

2011-11-18T13:37:00.000-08:00

Award-winning South Africa journalist Jonny Steinberg will deliver the Crain lecture at Northwestern University, in honor of World Aids Day on December 1st. Steinberg is the author of Sizwe's Test: A Young Man's Journey Through Africa's AIDS Epidemic. His latest book, Little Liberia, focusses on the lives of Liberian immigrants in New York City.

Date: Thursday, Dec 1, 2011

Time: 4:00pm-6:00pm

Venue: The McCormick Tribune Center, 1870 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL 60208

The lecture is free.

AIDS Foundation Chicago has an interview with Steinberg in anticipation of his talk at Northwestern University.

Tinariwen competition closed!

2011-11-14T07:06:00.000-08:00

The Tinariwen competition is now closed! Thanks to everyone who submitted answers. The winner will be receiving an email shortly.

Win tickets to Malian band Tinariwen in Chicago!

2011-11-13T16:51:00.000-08:00

You can win 2 tickets to Tinariwen! Just find the answer to the question below and send your answer to the email address that follows.

Question: What is the name of the United African Organization's new podcast project? (hint go to www.uniteafricans.org to find the answer)

Email: services@uniteafricans.org

The person with the first correct answer will win 2 tickets to Tinariwen! We will then send you more details about how to get your tickets.

New Special Edition African Voices on Nigera and multinationals

2011-11-10T12:29:00.000-08:00

Now online is a special edition of the African Voices podcast, featuring a longer version of our interview with Anslem John-Miller, from Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP). An abridged version of this interview is available in Episode 2 of African Voices. The release of this podcast coincides with a special day for the Ogoni people from Nigeria – November 10, 1995 – the anniversary of the death of one of their most important leaders, Ken Saro-Wiwa. We intend this episode of African Voices to raise awareness around not only the effects of Shell oil company on the Ogoni people but also to initiate discussion around the often exploitative role played by multinational companies all over Africa. We also want to generate debate on the impact these multinationals have had on the movement of immigrants and refugees from the African continent to the United States.

Our interviewee, Anslem John Miller, was born in Nigeria. He is a member of MOSOP, Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People. He came to Chicago as a refugee in 1996, to escape threats to his safety. He now works in the area of HIV Aids.

Listen and comment

Listen to African Voices on your Cell Phone!

2011-11-09T12:20:00.001-08:00

We are collaborating with Legend Talk Radio to bring you the latest African Voices Podcast on your cell-phone! The podcast is split into two segments – Chicago African News featuring news, events, issues and the Advice Box; Africans in Chicago Oral History featuring interviews with members of the community. You can now dial this number from your phone at the times below to listen to the podcast (all times are in US Central Time)! TUNE IN:

1-832-280-0017

To listen from outside the US on your phone or on Skype-Out, dial 001-832-280-0017. But beware of being charged international rates.

Chicago African News with AfricanVoices Schedule

Days Time

Mon 9:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 6:00pm, 9:00pm
Tue 9:00am, 3:00pm, 6:05pm, 10:00pm
Wed 9:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 6:00pm, 9:00pm

Thur 9:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 6:05pm, 10:00pm

Fri 9:00am, 3:00pm, 6:05pm, 9:00pm

Sat 9:000am, 12:05pm, 5:00pm, 7:05pm

Sun 9:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 6:00pm, 10:00pm

Chicago Oral History Report (Africans in Chicago Stories)

Days Time

Mon 6:30pm

Tue 3:30pm

Thur 12:30pm

Fri 3:30pm, 9:30pm

Sat 5:30pm

Win free tickets to see Tinariwen at the Metro in Chicago!

2011-11-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

Malian group Tinariwen will be making their way to Chicago at the famous Metro music venue. United African Organization, courtesy of Metro Chicago, is giving out two tickets to the show!

On Sunday, November 13 at 7pm, a question will be launched on THIS blog, and who ever emails services@uniteafricans.org first with the correct answer, wins BOTH tickets!

Our winner will be notified on Monday, November 14 and will need to provide the names of those attending the event by Thursday November 17.

So, make sure you're at your computer on Sunday, November 13 at 7pm and win some great tickets!

Tinariwen's show is Friday, November 25 at 9:00pm.

"Blacks Without Borders" film screening at the DuSable Museum this weekend

2011-11-08T12:29:00.000-08:00

"Blacks Without Borders: Chasing the American dream in South Africa" is a groundbreaking documentary that takes a heartfelt look at the emotional journey of a group of African Americans who called it quits in the U.S. to start a new life in South Africa. With 4 to 5 million immigrants coming to America every year to pursue the American dream why are they leaving? Blacks Without Borders answers that question and more.

Date: Sunday, November 13, 2:00-4:00pm
Venue: DuSable Museum

Go to the DuSable museum website for more info.

Film 'Elevate' opens in Chicago this week

2011-11-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

An award winning documentary film, ELEVATE, is coming to Chicago. The documentary about four tall West African teens who, based on their hard work, merits and dedication, are selected to play basketball at American prep schools and hope to one day play in the NBA. ELEVATE will be opening in Chicago at the AMC River East 21 on November 11th, 2011. Click for the trailer.

ICIRR's new hotline proving to be a success

2011-11-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

Since September, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), a partner of the UAO, has been running a 24-hour hotline for families who fear or are undergoing deportation. The hotline is the only one of its kind in the country. The line is completely confidential. It provides information and referrals to legal services, social services, ministers and help for immigrant families in crisis. The hotline is open to all. To call in from anywhere in the U.S., dial 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY - that's 1-855-435-7693. You do not have to be living in Illinois. At the moment the hotline is available in English, Spanish, Korean and Portuguese.

See the Huffington Post's article on the hotline.

Upcoming Citizenship Workshop - This Saturday!

2011-11-04T11:32:00.000-07:00

The UAO has teamed up with the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights to bring Citizenship workshops to the African community in Chicago. Repeat workshops are held throughout the year. November workshops will be held on:

Date: Sat, Nov 5, 2011
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Venue: Indo American Center
632 N. California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60659

Date: Sat, Nov 19, 2011
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Venue: Truman College
1145 W. Wilsen Avenue
Chicago, IL 60640

At the workshop, participants will receive:
~Free assistance to complete the application for naturalization
~Free legal consultation with an immigration attorney
~Free information on how to apply for application fee waiver
~Free study materials to prepare for the test and interview

To register for either of these free workshops or for more info, contact Cheikh Diop via cheikh.diop@uniteafricans.org or call (312) 949 9980

Spotlight: Alabama

2011-10-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

It is a few months after Governor Robert Bentley signed a tough anti-immigration law in Alabama. It is time to take stock of the effect the law has had.

As the ICIRR writes, the law "essentially turns educators, business owners, landlords and citizens into immigration officers, and punishes anyone caught hiring, housing or even giving a car ride to an undocumented person in the state." Particularly worrying is that the law requires school superintendents to request that new students provide proof of US citizenship when they apply. Although federal law prevents undocumented children from being turned away from Grade school, Alabama's law makes immigrant parents fearful of enrolling their children. The law flies in the face of legislation like the DREAM Act, which was passed in Illinois earlier this year. Under the provisions of the DREAM Act, qualifying undocumented youth ARE eligible for a 6 year long conditional path to citizenship.

Alabama's tough immigration laws have forced many immigrants to flee the state. In the process, many families have been split up. Listen to NPR's report on family splits. The laws have also brought to light racial profiling, even of high school students in Alabama. DREAMActivist.org reports that DREAM-eligible student, Christian, 17 years old, was arrested after a routine traffic stop and sent to jail. He was released only to be re-arrested three days later. While Christian was taking his girlfriend to the rodeo, a police officer asked, "why are you here, you should have been in Mexico by now!" As a result, Christian has spent the last month in jail, instead of in school.

Alabama has only a small percentage of undocumented immigrants. The Pew Hispanic Center estimates 2.5 percent of the state population and 4.2 percent of its workforce – and they pay sales tax just like everyone else, taxes that support schools, law enforcement and other services vital to the state.

Let's keep an eye on Alabama, Arizona and other states targeting immigrants to the United States. And let's stand in solidarity with these immigrants who, like us, make important contributions to the United States.

Support Somali Relief Efforts!

2011-10-25T10:36:00.000-07:00

"Renaissance for Somalia" - Fashion-Show Fundrasier
Date: Saturday, November 19th, 2011
Time: 3pm-5pm
Venue: Esther Smith Hall, New Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1252 S. Wolcott Avenue, Chicago IL 60608
Tickets are $30 (your donation is tax deductible)

To purchase more tickets, or for more information, call the United African Organization on 312 949 9980 or email services@uniteafricans.org . You can also call the East African Community Center on: 773 681 0801

Somali Refugees urgently need medical aid, high-protein/high-energy food, clean water, shelter.

Show your support by attending the show.

Ghana strives to increase women's participation in governance

2011-10-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

From Public Agenda (Accra):

The Minister for Women and Children's Affairs, Mrs. Juliana Azumah-Mensah has announced that the Ministry is leading a nationwide education and consultative tour to gather inputs for the drafting of Affirmative Action Bill to be laid before Parliament for consideration.

She noted that despite immense efforts by various women's groups and gender activists to ensure the inclusion of women in decision making positions, women were still excluded and marginalized at all levels of governance.

Therefore, it was important for the women groups to support and also make an input to enrich the draft bill. "There is the need to strategize and network to ensure that our are voices are heard," she stressed.

The Minister was speaking at a forum in Accra on affirmative action under the theme 'Affirmative Action as a Means of Increasing Women's Participation and Representation in Politics: The Role of Political Parties.' It was organized by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA).

She submitted that the Constitution should be gender sensitive, addressing issues such as increasing women's participation in politics and governance as well as issues that concerns the well being of women. She entreated more women to aspire to take up leadership positions.

Mrs. Azumah-Mensah urged political parties to support women candidates in the various parties while encouraging them to integrate their women's wing into the various aspects of the parties.

Read more

This Thursday: Anti-Apartheid work in the Chicago Area: Panel Discussion

2011-10-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Participate in a panel discussion on local anti-apartheid work in the Chicago area. The whys? The hows? Of doing such work. Success? Failures? Was it perhaps a journey towards "internationalism"

What is "internationalism" anyway? And are there lessons for other social (and progressive) movements?

Prexy Nesbitt, historian, teacher and activist, chairs the panel. Panel members include Basil Clunie, Robert T. Starks, Mary Scott-Boria, Michael Elliott, Harriet Parker, Anne Evens & Evalyn Tennant.

Date: Thursday, October 27th, 2011
Time: 12:30-3:20pm
Venue: Room 401, Alexandroff Center, 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL

African Voices Podcast released!

2011-10-19T13:41:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to introduce you to our newest project: the 'African Voices' podcast! The Internet has democratized radio and TV by providing space for people with few resources and limited professional media experience to get their voices heard. The United African Organization would like to be part of this process. That's why we are launching our free podcast, 'African Voices'. Through our podcast, we are offering the African community in Illinois the opportunity to have their voices heard.

Our first podcast is now online! The podcast features October news and events from the African community in Illinois, information our Leadership Development Program, an interview with Paulo Bombe about his journey from Angola to Chicago (from our Africans in Chicago Oral History Project) and music from Youssoupha Sidibe, an artist from Senegal currently living in California.

You can listen to it on our podcast website. Make sure to subscribe to our podcast to be informed of future episodes! If you would like to contribute to our podcast, email podcasts@uniteafricans.org. Be sure to check out the guidelines for contributions.

Talk on African Liberation Struggles during the Cold War

2011-10-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

Envisioning Another World and Taking on Big Enemies
Friday, October 21, 2011 | 12–1 p.m.

Smart Museum of Art
Website
5550 South Greenwood Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647 USA

Free

Learn about the triumphs and failings of African liberation struggles during the Cold War. This free talk is presented by Prexy Nesbitt, who currently teaches African history at Columbia College and has lectured extensively on issues of racism, war, and militarism.

Transformative Music and Dance from the Congo

2011-10-17T13:41:00.000-07:00

This weekend the Museum of Contemporary Art hosts performances by Faustin Linyekula from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Performances take place Friday-Sunday, October 21-23, 7:40pm at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago:

"In this raucous and powerful dance theater performance, three dancers, including choreographer and director Faustin Linyekula, reflect on the political, social, and cultural history and present day struggles of the Congo. The dancers move to the dark poems of Antoine Vumilia Muhindo, a political prisoner in Kinshasa and childhood friend of Linyekula’s, set to driving music by Congolese guitarist Flamme Kapaya and his five-member on-stage band. The work seeks to present hope for a better future in the Congo.

The 2011 U.S. Tour of more more more… future is produced by MAPP International Productions in partnership with The Africa Contemporary Arts Consortium."

Tickets: MCA members - $22, Nonmembers - $28, Students - $10. Buy tickets online or call the MCA Box Office, 312.397.4010.

Learn more.

Also this weekend:

Artists up close: Home as Radical Place round table

Saturday, Oct 22, 12-2pm at the Experimental Station, 6100 S. Blackstone, Chicago IL. Attendance is Free.

Returning after 13 years in exile to his homeland of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Faustin Linyekula and members of his Studios Kabako are meeting with Chicago’s residents of the south side to weigh how people can rediscover a sense of belonging in our turbulent times. Kabako, his network of multi-use studios throughout Kisangani, is an answer to the culture of death being propagated by the political violence of the aftermath from the Second Congo War (1998-2003). Run as intentional organizational and physical structures, the circumstances behind Kabako which compelled Linyekula to return home and build in Kisangani are specific, but the causes and consequences resonate for all of us. Using as the starting point his artistic practice model, which he dubs “geo-choreography”, Linyekula invites local artist/activists to share their own models for self-sufficient and sustainable community through culture.

Learn more.

JahGhana and UIC students support UAO

2011-10-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Members of JahGhana and the UIC Student Council presenting the check to UAO staff Alie Kabba and Nancy Asirifi-Otchere on Saturday, October 15th, 2011.

Entertainment Group JahGhana teamed up with the UIC (University of Illinois in Chicago) Student Council to raise funds for the United African Organization this month! They hosted their annual Afro Entertainment Awards show on October 8th, 2011. Some of the funds raised from the event were donated to the UAO. This is community support at its best! Thanks to JahGhana and UIC Student Council for their incredible contribution!

Next Leadership Workshop Saturday, October 15

2011-10-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

Friends,

Our next leadership workshop will take place on this Saturday, October 15th from 9:00am - 1:00pm at 10 West 35th Street, 6th floor (University Room), Chicago, IL 60616.

The workshop will cover the following important topics:

Community organizing models for social justice change

Building a better future through community action

Building transformative social movements

Oscar Chacón will facilitate the workshop. He is currently Executive Director of the National Alliance of Latin American & Caribbean Communities (NALACC). Until December, 2006, Mr. Chacon served as director of Enlaces América, a project of the Chicago-based Heartland Alliance for Human Needs and Human Rights. Mr. Chacón served for most of the 1990’s as executive director of Centro Presente, Inc, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He served for many years as president of the Salvadoran American National Network (SANN). Mr. Chacon is a frequent lecturer in national and international conferences, as well as a media spokesperson on Latino immigrant issues in the U.S. He brings a transnational perspective to community organizing and social movements that is both fascinating and essential as we seek to empower our community.

Please invite your network for this FREE leadership workshop. RSVP at training@uniteafricans.org. Or call us on (312) 949 9980. You have until Friday to RSVP.

See you on Saturday! Light refreshment will be served.

Empowering Voices Talks with Alie Kabba, United African Organization about Immigration Discrimination

2011-10-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

Trinity United Church of Christ featured United African Organization Director, Alie Kabba, on their program Empowering Voices. Alie was interviewed by Rev. Joan R. Harrell. He spoke about the work of the UAO, immigration policy, African immigrants to the US and the contributions of immigrants to US society. He also spoke about the need to recognize systemic injustices in our society and to empower people in our communities.

You can watch the interview HERE.

Events at the Chicago Council for Global Affairs

2011-10-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Council for Globa Affairs is hosting two events of particular interest in October and November. Here they are:

Navigating the Immigration Debate and Chicago's Experience

Date: Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Time: 5:30pm
Venue: InterContinental Hotel, 505 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

At the talk, a group from the Emerging Leaders class of 2009 will present their report on immigration. An expert commentater, Alejandro Escalona, a columnist from the Chicago Sun-Times, will provide framing for the discussion. Marshall Bouton, President of the Chicago Council for Global Affairs will introduce the program. Executive Director of the United African Organization, Alie Kabba, provided guidance to the panel early on.

The talk is free but you must register in advance.

Empowering Women for Economic Growth in South Africa

Date: Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Time: 12 noon
Venue: The Chicago Club, 81 East Van Buren, Chicago, IL 60605
Speaker: Lulama Xingwana, Minister for Women, Children, and People with Dissabilities, Republic of South Africa

Registration is required in for this event. Click the link above to register.

UAO and Illinois Association of Hair Braiders in the news

2011-10-05T09:13:00.000-07:00

UAO Director, Alie Kabba, flanked by hair braiders Amazon Smiley, left, and Frances Simmons, right. (Photo courtesy of Keri Wiginton, Chicago Tribune / October 4, 2011)

The Chicago Tribune today features an article on the new law that provides a special category of licenses for hair braiders. The new licenses mean that hair braiders no longer have to go through a long and expensive process in order to practice their craft as professionals. The law took effect last month and will require a hair braider entering the field to have 300 hours of classroom and practical experience to get a license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The department intends to offer schools and classes for hair braiders. The United African Organization and the Illinois Association of Hair Braiders were at the forefront of pushing for the new legislation. "We saw this as a social justice issue," said UAO Director, Alie Kabba. You can see the article on the Tribune website!

Good news for 'DREAM' student Nadia

2011-10-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

On Friday 29th September, the ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) decided to provide a stay of removal for Stony Brook University student, Nadia, after incessant pressure from immigrant rights groups. Nadia was brought to the United States from Bangladesh when she was one year old. Nadia is DREAM-eligible - in other words, under the provisions of the DREAM Act, she and other qualifying undocumented youth would be eligible for a 6 year long conditional path to citizenship that requires completion of a college degree or two years of military service. Up until Friday, ICE was set to deport Nadia and her mother, Nazmin. Now both can stay, at least in the short term.

However, according to Nadia’s attorney, Aygul Charles, “There is still a big chance that Nadia and her mother will be deemed deportable after the expiration of the stay of removal. Also, the stay of removal can be lifted by ICE at any moment.”

To find out about and support other young people in the same position as Nadia, go to dreamactivist.org. For more information on the DREAM Act, visit the DREAM Act Portal.

Last week ICE wanted to deport a young student from Bangladesh. Next week, it could be a young African immigrant, eligible for the DREAM Act. We are all in this together. Let's keep supporting our brothers and sisters!

Elections: Leadership of Liberians in America

2011-10-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

Elections were held for the leadership of the Union of Liberian Associations in America on 1 October, 2011. See footage from the lively election debate in Maryland, USA, on 30 September, 2011. Watch community politics in action!

Click on one of the images below to see video highlights from the event. Candidates for:

President | Vice President

General Secretary | Secretary

Videos courtesy of Moses Bombo Tambason.

The results of the election are now out. Dr. Gaye Sleh Jr., Chairperson of the UAO and a Chicago resident, was elected President. For the full results, click here.

African Unity Gala & Awards

2011-09-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

I'm looking forward to the African Unity Gala & Awards!! I hope you will be among our guests at this wonderful celebration of African unity and culture!

You will meet and greet our honorees:

Attorney General Lisa Madigan

Nelson Mandela Social Justice Advocate Award

Crossroads Fund

African Pillar of Excellence Award

Prudential Financial

Corporate Partner of the Year Award

Dr Erku Yimer

Kwame Nkrumah Visionary Leadership Award

James Thindwa

Amilcar Cabral Spirit Award

You will enjoy spectacular culinary diversity as you taste food from Ethiopia, Morocco, Jamaica, Ghana, Senegal, Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone, etc.

You will love live jazz performance by Tammy McCann!

You will appreciate the opportunity to network with community leaders, supporters and allies.

And you will be inspired to support the work of the United African Organization!

There is still time to purchase your ticket. Click HERE to purchase your ticket now. You also have the option to purchase your ticket at the event on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 10 West 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60616. The program starts promptly at 6:30 p.m. with live jazz!!!

African Unity Gala & Awards

2011-08-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

Planning for the African Unity Gala & Awards is in full swing. I look forward to it because it is a joyful occasion to celebrate our achievements and thank our supporters. Join us on September 24, 2011 for an evening of great entertainment! Don't miss the delicious food and great networking opportunity!!

Click here to purchase tickets or sponsorship opportunities. Hurry and purchase your tickets today!

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the event!

See you at the gala on September 24, 2011!!

A Must See Film! " A SMALL ACT"

2011-06-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

He was once a young Kenyan Child with no hopes while living in Africa. One Day, his life significantly changed when his education was sponsored by a Stranger from Sweden. Now he is a Human Rights lawyer. His Name is Chris MBuru and he is giving you the chance to see and hear his story in a award winning Film. What a Blessing? Why wouldn’t you want to be next to or around someone who turns his hopes into reality? “A SMALL ACT” is a MUST see film. Join Chris and Team on June 6, 2011 at the Facets Cinematheque on 1517 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL 60614. Come see how you can apply A SMALL Act to help Chris as he aims to repeat the kindness he was blessed with by founding a scholarship fund to aid the new generation in Kenya. For all who share similar stories with Chris or to those who seek knowledge on how A SMALL ACT can impact one life, please take the time and come out to the film screening on June 6, 2011 at 7pm. Tickets are only $9 for General Admission. Call 773-281-4114 to purchase your tickets.

Illinois DREAM Act Passed both House and Senate!

2011-05-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

The Illinois House passed the IL DREAM Act yesterday with a bipartisan 60-54 vote. The bill now goes to the desk of Governor Pat Quinn, and he has committed to sign it!

What an amazing victory! It means hope for thousands of undocumented youth who can now access university education in the Land of Lincoln. Yeah, Illinois is not Arizona!

Wow, I feel like drinking a cup of coffee on Mount Kilimanjaro!!!

Illinois DREAM Act on Fox News

2011-05-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

I had fun last night in a debate (click here to view it) with Rick Biesada, an anti-immigrant member of the Chicago Minuteman Project. It was clear from the start that Rick had not even bothered to read SB2185. The bill is a common-sense, no-cost legislation to allow immigrant youth to pursue their dream of a higher education. It has broad support from faith leaders, law enforcement, elected officials, university presidents, and community-based organizations across the state. Rick and his anti-immigrant group represent a tiny minority with no real solutions to fix our broken immigration system. I'm glad that Illinois is a national leader in welcoming immigrants!

The African Youth Network Gives Back!

2011-05-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

AYN members, Africana, Kama, and Mayah, help serve breakfast to summit attendees.

We witnessed a huge turnout of yellow-shirted Young Africans at the 5th Annual Chicago Summit on African immigrants and refugees this weekend. It was amazing because waking young college and high students up early on Saturday mornings is not an easy thing. Members of The African Youth Network (AYN) were able to wake up and prove me wrong! For this reason, I will like to applaud those AYN members who took time out of their busy lives to help make this event a success.

Being at the Summit was a great opportunity for AYN members. They had the chance to witness what the first generation is and has been doing for African immigrants and Refugees in the city of Chicago. They were able to be in an educational and resourceful environment which helped enlighten their perspective and change the way they will target and speak on issues in their local communities and in City of Chicago. AYN members had the chance to network and greet attendees from all walks of life. By discussing with other attendees, AYN members had the chance to understand the importance of being at a formal occasion like the Summit.

With their volunteerism AYN displayed that they’re next in line to take leadership roles in the African community. AYN also displayed an important image to the first generation Africans by showing them that the African Youth Network in Chicago is fired up and ready to go! Giving some time back to the community is one of the many objectives that AYN promotes. To join and be part of the AYN, please feel free to email me, Garcon Morweh at garcon.morweh@uniteafricans.org.

UAO Summit Roundup: Why YOU should run for office!

2011-05-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Bryan Echols from MAGIC spoke about the value of mobilizing youth for community engagement.

This weekend's summit was a fun and inspiring event. I had the opportunity to socialize with so many friendly, interesting African migrants between sessions and over Ghanaian food (waakye rice and shito hot sauce). At the panel on democracy, peace, and development in Africa, I was given the honor of moderating a highly educated and engaged group of speakers, each of whom brought a unique angle, highlighting the role of women leaders on the continent, on-going misrepresentations of Africa in the US media, and calls for practical collaboration between Africans on the continent and in the US. The audience responded with questions many of which concerned how to improve elections and other democratic processes on the continent. It was actually very hard for me to to cut-off the session for the sake of time even though the audience had so many important ideas and questions that showed their engagement and desire for solutions.

In the second panel, Steven Smith from ICIRR, sought to harness African migrants' enthusiasm for democracy for the improvement of local politics. He asked audience members to discuss amongst their neighbors and then call out characteristics that they identified for ideal political candidates: "Honesty!" "Knowledge of our problems!" "Courage!" to which Mr. Smith responded, "Now who do you know that has those characteristics? .... You do!" I then watched as many people started taking down information about the new candidate school just for migrants. He continued on with other suggestions for what migrants can do even if they do not run for office: identify other potential candidates, help them run, and know which offices are open. The panel ended with a question about challenges to community organizing, and Theresah Mah and Ahlam Jbara both recognized the determination of their volunteers willing to go out in the cold winter months to knock on doors and get out the vote. Overall, it was an energizing moment, and I look forward to seeing how the audience members translate that energy into action!

Chicago's New Mayor

2011-05-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

I am, like many in the Windy City, happy to see that the Daley era is finally a page in history. Mayor Rahm Emanuel is now the new boss in charge.

Although it is too early to say much about the next phase in the evolution of Chicago, there is an abundance of questions to ask as we all celebrate today amidst great pomp and pageantry. What does a new mayor mean for Chicago? Is it a cosmetic change from pepsi to coke? Should we expect profound changes in both style and substance when it comes to city governance and priorities? Will Mayor Emanuel look to Mayor Harold Washington for inspiration? Will the many vacant lots on the west and south sides of Chicago finally see a major push toward sustainable development and affordable housing? Will the new mayor reach out to the growing African immigrant and refugee community in the Windy City? What will be Chicago's role in the global economy?

As I see it all from my quiet office in Bronzeville, today's celebration marks a refreshing break from the long reign of Emperor Richard M. Daley. For now, I say simply "Best wishes, Mayor Rahm Emanuel! Work like hell, and have fun doing it!!"

New Candidate School

2011-05-05T16:31:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce the launch of our new Candidate School, which aims to recruit, train, and educate immigrants and the children of immigrants to pursue public service. This could include getting involved with an election, seeking appointed office, running for public office, or managing a campaign. The Candidate School is a non-partisan 501(c)(3) project.

In partnership with the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, Wellstone Action and the New American Leaders Project, the United African Organization will identify and recruit African community leaders with deep passion for public service to participate in this new initiative.

I'm so thrilled to be a part of efforts to build POWER in our community! It is important to elect leaders who share our values and vision!!

If you are interested, click here now to receive more information about the Candidate School!

Two Great Victories in Illinois!

2011-05-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

Goods News: Yesterday, the Illinois Senate passed the Illinois Dream Act with an overwhelming 45-11 bipartisan vote- with 11 GOP Senators voting in favor of the bill!!

Amazing News: Governor Pat Quinn, with the support of law enforcement, has made Illinois the first state in the country to opt-out of the flawed Secure Communities program. Governor Quinn sent a letter to the Homeland Secruity: "Due to the conflict between the stated purpose of Secure Communities and the implementation of the program, [Illinois State Police] will no longer participate in the Secure Communities program."

What a great signal to send to the rest of the nation that Illinois is the Land of Lincoln!!! We are not Arizona!!!!

African Youth Network

2011-05-02T10:13:00.001-07:00

A great meeting of the African Youth Network (AYN) last Saturday produced significant results in organizing and building a powerful youth-led project of the United African African Organization (UAO). AYN is the voice of African youth in Chicago! If you would like to join AYN, contact Garcon Morweh, UAO youth organizer, at garcon.morweh@uniteafricans.org.

It's amazing to see emerging youth leaders at work! So much energy and so much passion to advance social justice and community empowerment! I love it!!

New Americans Rally!

2011-04-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

I'm looking forward to the New Americans Rally on April 30th in support of the “One Nation, One Dream” agenda!

Do you know that immigrant communities now make up 13.5 percent of the population and 17.5 percent of the workforce in Illinois?

Do you know that immigrants are 50 percent more likely to start businesses than native-born Illinoisians?

The April 30th New Americans Rally is a chance to recognize the contributions of immigrant communities, and re-commit the State to policies that welcome these diverse communities.

Keynote speakers will include: Senator Richard Durbin, State Senate President John Cullerton and University of Illinois President Michael Hogan. Other invited supporters of the Illinois DREAM Act include: House Speaker Michael Madigan, Mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel, and dozens of law enforcement leaders and university presidents.