INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT

 

31 August 2024

Story: My Years in Russia: A True Story of Sofonie Dala 

On this International Day for People of African Descent, we honor the remarkable achievements and relentless dedication of individuals who have tirelessly fought for justice, equality, and recognition. Among these inspiring figures stands Sofonie Dala, a young African leader whose journey embodies the resilience and courage of people of African descent.

From a young age, Sofonie has been deeply committed to promoting human rights, gender equality, and sustainable development. Her path has not been easy. Growing up in Angola, Sofonie faced the harsh realities of systemic racism, social exclusion, and the lingering impacts of colonialism. Yet, she refused to be defined by these challenges. Instead, she transformed her experiences into a powerful force for change.

Sofonie's journey took her to Russia, where she encountered profound racial discrimination and witnessed the exploitation of African students. Despite these obstacles, she persevered, using her voice to raise awareness about the injustices faced by people of African descent. Her advocacy extended to South Africa, where she confronted xenophobia and the struggles of African migrants, and back to Angola, where she championed the rights of vulnerable communities, including indigenous women and migrants from Congo.

Through her unwavering dedication, Sofonie has become a beacon of hope for many. Her innovative initiatives, such as empowering women through education and addressing climate change, have had a profound impact on her community and beyond. She is not just a leader but a symbol of what can be achieved when one dares to dream and fights for a better world.

As we reflect on the contributions of people of African descent today, let us draw inspiration from Sofonie Dala’s story. Her life reminds us that true change is possible when we stand united against racism and discrimination. Together, we can build a world where equality, opportunity, and justice are not just aspirations but realities for all.

Sofonie Dala’s past and present endeavors showcase her exceptional ability to lead and execute programs that promote human rights. Her work continues to shine a light on the path toward a more just and inclusive future for people of African descent globally.

Breaking Barriers: The First African Woman to Host Russia's Navruz Party

In 2012, I became the first black woman and the first African to host the "Navruz Party," a Central Asian celebration held in the republics within Russia. By doing so, I paved the way for many other Africans, who were subsequently invited to present at similar events.

During our time in Russia, we made significant strides in showcasing our culture. We celebrated African festivals and the independence days of our home countries, singing, dancing, and sharing the rich traditions of Africa with others.

My Years in Russia: A True Story of Sofonie Dala

Hello everyone! I'm Sofonie Dala, and today I want to share a personal reflection on the International Day for People of African Descent, observed every August 31st. This day, established by the United Nations, honors the rich heritage and significant contributions of people of African descent.

As members of a unified human family, we must confront and eliminate the outdated stereotypes and prejudices rooted in unfounded ideas of racial superiority. These biases continue to inflict pain on millions of people of African descent globally.

Now, let me share my own story about living in Russia and what it meant to be black in a country where I often felt isolated.

I moved to Russia in 2005 at the age of 13 to pursue my studies. The initial experience was overwhelming. I noticed people staring at me constantly—women, in particular, seemed fixated on me. I couldn't understand why everyone was so intensely focused on me. I wondered, "Why are they looking at me like that?"

Some greeted me as if I were a celebrity, while others seemed fearful and apprehensive. Over time, I realized that my skin color was the reason for their attention. I was the only black person in the city where I initially lived, which made the experience particularly challenging.

Yes, there was a significant amount of racism. Racism is pervasive everywhere, not just in Russia but also in Africa, where nationalism can sometimes manifest in similar ways.

Despite the racism and prejudice I faced—where even simple outings required careful consideration—I persevered. I did not allow these challenges to deter me. I achieved my educational goals and earned a master's degree, proving that resilience can triumph over adversity.

Sofonie Dala Interviewed by Russian Press on Africa Day, 2013

Today is May 25th, African Liberation Day, an incredibly important day for us, and we have come together to celebrate it. This celebration isn't just happening here in Russia; it's happening all across Africa as well.

I’m wearing my African costume, which I brought from Angola, my homeland. This traditional attire represents our national pride and culture. Today, all the African students in this city are dressed in their national costumes, showcasing our rich heritage here in Europe. We want everyone to see how deeply we cherish our culture and how proud we are to be African.

Back home in Africa, we celebrate as families, gathering together to decorate the streets and spend time outdoors. We share meals, adorn everything beautifully with African beads and ornaments, and even paint our faces for carnivals. We also observe African rituals, taking time to rest on these special days because they hold great significance for us.

It was on a day like today, August 31, in 1920, that the first declaration of the rights of people of African descent was adopted in New York. Commemorating this historic event, in 2020 the General Assembly, under the initiative of Costa Rica, declared this as the International Day for People of African Descent. International day celebrations invite governments, civil society, the public and private sectors, schools and universities, and citizens of the world to reflect on values that unite humanity and to take concrete actions to advance them.

International days reflect the values that society shares. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and have the potential to contribute constructively to the development and well-being of their societies. Any doctrine of racial superiority is scientifically false, morally condemnable, socially unjust, and dangerous and must be rejected, together with theories that attempt to determine the existence of separate human races.