From Fernley to Kwame Danso: Celebrating Independence Across Continents

On a vibrant July Fourth morning in Fernley, Nevada, an immigrant from Ghana wakes to the festive stirrings of his American neighbors, gearing up for celebrations on Main Street. Little did he know, this day would mark the American Independence Day, a stark contrast to his own upbringing in Ghana.

As the residents adorned in patriotic regalia paraded through Main Street, the cultural mosaic of America unfolded before his eyes. The rich diversity represented in drumbeats, flags, and smiles painted a picture of unity amidst differences, culminating in a mesmerizing display of fireworks from Washington D.C. that transcended borders.

Reflecting back on his youth in Ghana, where Independence Day preparations involved rigorous drills and spirited marches in the scorching sun of Kwame Danso, the echoes of «left,» «right,» «benkum,» «nifa» resonated. The elaborate display of synchronized marching and competitions under the watchful eyes of government officials stood as a testament to Ghana’s hard-fought independence.

However, beneath the facade of celebration lay the sobering reality of dependence on foreign aid for basic needs in Ghana, echoing the sentiments of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, who emphasized the intertwined nature of independence and liberation for Africa. The lingering question of true independence echoed across continents, prompting reflections on the broader implications of sovereignty.

Amidst the complexities of independence, the shared experiences of marching as a child in Ghana and savoring a rare bottle of Coca-Cola on special occasions encapsulate the essence of freedom in cherished moments. The parallels between the two nations, each navigating their unique paths towards independence, serve as a poignant reminder of the continuous struggle for self-reliance and autonomy in a global landscape.