W.E.B Du Bois & Jaynii Streetwise Foundation

July 6, 2013

We received a tour of W.E.B. Du Bois, Memorial Centre for Pan- African Culture in Accra.

W.E.B. Du Bois, a pioneer for pan-Africanism, was born in the United States but traced his roots back to Africa, fighting for racial equality wherever he settled. We were taken to his library where, along with many of his own manuscripts, he had old classic novels such as 'the Grapes of Wrath'. I had just finished this novel for an English course. An indication that the remembrance of inequality is just as important to keep alive in order, in hope, of preventing such behaviour from being passed on to future generations.

Women have always seemingly had a well defined role in Ghanaian society and rarely would they step outside of that role, or so I assumed. However, on our tour we learned of many women who had loud voices and that actively fought against racial inequality. It was awesome to see them receive the credit for such hard work and determination in which they had contributed throughout their lives, as well.

W.E.B Du Bois grew up in the United States with very little money with few opportunities available. Still, he pushed his way through life only leaving room for success and hope. When we were walking through his room of DEGREES, I asked a few of the other students: "what drives one person to believe they really can make a difference in changing the worldly view of what it is to be equal?" W.E.B. Du Bois: newly found inspiration.

Later that day, our professor took us to the Jaynii Streetwise Foundation!

This organization was founded in 2007 and helps to educate children in the Jamestown area of Accra. This is one of the most impoverished areas of Ghana. We had the chance to meet the kids, had our first opportunity to jam with some of the drummers and learn how to dance! We supplied some toys and school supplies, however, I wish I had brought more. Potential volunteer position that I am considering for the future.

This is Bella!

The organization is right on the coast.

These young ladies, that have been supported and educated by the Jaynii Streetwise Foundation performed a song for us. Lyrics were difficult to listen to as they explained a little bit about what they experience, while living in Jamestown, on a daily basis.