The Executive Director of W. E. B. Dubois Foundation Mr. Japheth Aryiku, has highlighted his deep commitment to preserving the legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois in Ghana.
Mr. Aryiku, a Ghanaian-American, shares his journey of involvement with the Du Bois Centre and the ambitious plans he and his team have for the facility. According to Mr. Aryiku W.E.B. Du Bois, a prominent figure in both Ghanaian and global Black history, left a significant legacy that needs to be preserved and celebrated.
Mr. Aryiku noted that Du Bois’ contributions to the Pan-African movement and his role in Ghana’s post-independence story are “an important part of the Ghanaian story, but also the Black story around the world.” Mr. Aryiku’s engagement with the Du Bois Foundation aims to ensure that these contributions are not forgotten.
According to Mr. Aryiku, his journey began when his colleagues at the Helping Africa Foundation, which builds computer centers across Ghana, brought the Du Bois Centre to his attention.
“They said, Japhet, you’re a Ghanaian, have you been to the Du Bois Centre lately? I said no I have not been. They said, go and see what is happening at the Du Bois Centre. It’s falling apart. Can you help us do something about it?”
Mr. Japheth Aryiku the Executive Director of W. E. B. Dubois Foundation
This plea sparked Aryiku’s commitment to reviving the center and led him to initiate conversations with the Ghanaian government.
The turning point came when Aryiku met with the board of the Du Bois Centre and asked them about their priorities.
“I asked them, give me your priorities. What are the priority items that you want to do here at the center? And I’ll see what I can do.”
Mr. Japheth Aryiku the Executive Director of W. E. B. Dubois Foundation
Mr. Aryiku pointed out that he was surprised when the board’s primary request was to build a bungalow for the center’s director, who according to Aryiku, spent most of his time supervising social events like “parties, weddings, and funerals” rather than focusing on Du Bois’ legacy. “I lost it,” Ayiku admitted. “I said no. Something has to be done.”
This encounter motivated him to pursue a broader vision for the center, which led him to meet with the Ghanaian government.
Although initial conversations in 2016 were promising, political changes meant Mr. Aryiku had to restart the process after a new administration took office. Fortunately, he was able to meet with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in 2019, both at Harvard and later in Ghana.
“The president…said it’s a good idea. Go ahead and look into it. We’re excited. We started the conversation.”
Mr. Japheth Aryiku the Executive Director of W. E. B. Dubois Foundation
Mr. Aryiku emphasized that a significant milestone in this project was choosing the architect to lead the renovation of the Du Bois Centre. David Adjaye, a renowned Ghanaian architect who designed the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., was an obvious choice. This collaboration between prominent scholars and architects emphasizes the global interest in preserving Du Bois’ legacy.
Renovation Plans and Building for the Future
The renovation plans are not just about preserving the past but also about building for the future. Mr. Aryiku revealed that the project includes the construction of a modern, world-class museum and cultural center dedicated to Du Bois.
This development will serve as a hub for education, research, and cultural activities, ensuring that Du Bois’ contributions continue to inspire future generations.
The upcoming 61st anniversary of Du Bois’ passing is another important event for the foundation. Aryiku asserted that a symposium will be held, featuring scholars from the United States and Ghana, discussing the life and works of Du Bois.
“We will have a wreath-laying ceremony…the president of Ghana has agreed to come to lay a wreath on behalf of the people and government of Ghana.”
Mr. Japheth Aryiku the Executive Director of W. E. B. Dubois Foundation
Mr. Japhet Aryiku’s dedication to the Du Bois Foundation demonstrates a commitment to honoring the legacy of one of the most significant figures in Black history.
Mr. Japheth Aryiku’s efforts to restore the Du Bois Centre and create a world-class museum underscored the importance of preserving history while creating opportunities for future generations to engage with it.
“This is different, I am a Ghanaian-American. I promise you, if you guys will work with me, I [am going] to change this place up.”
Mr. Japheth Aryiku the Executive Director of W. E. B. Dubois Foundation
Mr. Japheth Aryiku’s determination and vision hold the promise of a revitalized Du Bois Centre that will continue to educate and inspire for years to come.
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