Ghanaian writer Ama Ata Aidoo was one of Africa’s most-celebrated authors and playwrights. Aidoo won many literary awards including the 1992 Commonwealth Writers Prize for her novel Changes
“Just after reading the New York Times Art section where I see the continued resistance to returning stolen art that is in the museums of the United Kingdom; as I fill with rage at the arrogance of colonialism; at the condensation of what tries to mask as an ‘art sensitive gesture’ in the offering to LEND a few pieces of Benin icons looted centuries ago, I read the Obituaries and there is the announcement of my dear sister-in-arms of Pan African struggles and literary integrity for The Continent and Her Children; dead!” More ?
Ismaili’s tribute is not just a testimony to Aidoo’s significance, but she also describes a community of writers from Africa and the Diaspora who understood the power of Pan Africanism and for fought for Black empowerment. Numerous writers, musicians, and artists were mentioned in her piece a few are listed below:
Amiri Baraka (October 7, 1934 — January 9, 2014) was one of the most prolific African American writers of the 20th century. Up until his passing He continued to be active in the struggle against racism and capitalism, to organize artists, and to participate in the struggle for Black Liberation.
Kamau Brathwaite (May 11, 1930 — February 4, 2020) was considered one of the major voices in the Caribbean literary canon. He was also a professor of Comparative Literature at New York University.
Jayne Cortez (May 10, 1936 — December 28, 2012) was poet, activist, and small press publisher. She cofounded, with Ama Ata Aidoo, The Organization of Women Writers of Africa, Inc. in 1991.
Tom Feelings (May 19, 1933 — August 25, 2003) was a cartoonist, children’s book illustrator, author, teacher, and activist. Feelings was the recipient of a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, and a 1972 Caldecott Medal Honor. His children’s book, Middle Passage: White Ships/Black Cargo, won a 1996 Coretta Scott King Award.
George William Lamming (June 8, 1927 — June 4, 2022) was a Barbadian novelist, essayist, and critic. He was born in Barbados. Lamming is considered one of the most significant Caribbean writers of the 20th century, known for his insightful exploration of colonialism, identity, and the postcolonial condition.
Kwame Nkrumah (September 1909 — April 27, 1972) led Ghana to independence from Britain in 1957 and served as its first prime minister and president. He headed the country from independence in 1957 until he was overthrown by a coup in 1966 by the National Liberation Council.
Nawal El Saadawi (October 27, 1931 — March 21, 2021) was a prominent figure in the Arab world and globally known for her fearless advocacy for women’s rights and social justice.
Randy Weston (April 6, 1926 — September 1, 2018) was one of the world’s most influential jazz musicians and a remarkable storyteller whose career has spanned five continents and more than six decades. Weston’s contributions to jazz music and his unique approach to blending African rhythms with jazz improvisation were significant and influential.
Read the Entire Tribute
