On February 23, 2025, the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, hosted a special event to mark the 157th anniversary of the birth of Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois.
Held at the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan-African Culture in Cantonments, Accra, the ceremony honored Du Bois’ enduring contributions to Pan-Africanism, racial equity, and social justice. Highlights of the event included insightful reflections on his legacy and a solemn wreath-laying ceremony.
Dignitaries and Keynote Messages
The event commenced with the arrival of the delegation led by Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff, representing H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana. Following an invocation and the Ghanaian National Anthem, attendees engaged in discussions and tributes celebrating Du Bois’ profound impact.
Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, emphasized Ghana’s role as a custodian of great Pan-African figures like Du Bois and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Pan-Africanism. She also acknowledged the alignment of this initiative with the NDC’s manifesto and expressed gratitude to those who have contributed intellectually, financially, and through advocacy.
Commitment to Preservation and Development
Executive Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation, Japhet Aryiku, reassured attendees that the Government of Ghana had neither sold nor leased the Du Bois Centre land to the foundation. Instead, the foundation has committed to raising millions of dollars to develop the facility for the benefit of Ghanaians and the Pan-African community.
Aryiku detailed plans to:
- Restore and renovate Du Bois’ iconic bungalow (fully funded).
- Construct a new memorial to house his remains, including a reflection and meditation space with an eternal flame.
- Establish a state-of-the-art museum honoring Dr. Du Bois and Shirley Graham Du Bois.
- Partner with the Library of Congress to preserve Du Bois’ vast collection of books and papers, which are at risk due to Ghana’s humid climate.
- Develop a world-class research library to house these historical works.
Distinguished Speakers and Reflections
The event featured remarks from Daniel Rose, Chairman of the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation, delivered by Dr. Deborah Rose. A distinguished panel shared reflections on Du Bois’ remarkable legacy, including:
- Odell Murry – Custodian of the Du Bois Legacy
- Dr. Preston King – Civil Rights Activist & Academic
- Dr. Whitney Battle-Baptiste – Director, W.E.B. Du Bois Center, UMass Amherst
- Prof. Alhassan S. Anamzoya – Head of Sociology, University of Ghana
- Ramsey Ryan – Chief of Staff, Library of Congress
- Jeffrey Peck – Great-grandson of Du Bois
Their insights emphasized Du Bois’ impact on civil rights, academia, and global Pan-African movements.
A Vision for the Future
The W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation remains dedicated to preserving Du Bois’ legacy and advancing education on Pan-Africanism and social justice. This gathering served as a reminder of his lasting influence and the ongoing efforts to honor his contributions to global history.
The foundation’s mission is to transform the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre into a world-class museum complex, fostering a deeper understanding of African and African-American heritage. Through exhibitions, research, and educational initiatives, it aims to inspire future generations to carry forward Du Bois’ vision of justice, equality, and intellectual empowerment.
This event underscored the importance of keeping Du Bois’ teachings and philosophy relevant in today’s world, ensuring that his impact continues to shape discussions on racial equity, justice, and cultural heritage.