Dear Friends,
We invite you to join us for a day of films (Memories of Lumumba, Street Children of Kinshasa,and Apocalypse Africa) cutting edge discussion, and an evening reception featuring Congolese performers to reflect, assess, and celebrate the way toward a truly free and liberated Congo. A special commemoration will be held to celebrate the life and work of Congolese human rights activist Floribert Chebeya Bahizire.
Congo Independence 50 Years Later: The Continuing Pursuit
Wednesday, June 30, 20102:00 pm to 8:30 pm
True Reformer Bldg's Lankford Auditorium12th & U Street, NWWashington, DC USAClick here for directions!Click here to download flyer!
On June 30, 2010, the Democratic Republic of Congo will celebrate its 50th year of independence from Belgian colonial rule. Celebrations will take place throughout the globe commemorating this golden anniversary. However, not all Congolese are celebrating. Nor are peace and justice loving people who value and respect a more united and elevated African continent. The ultimate independence and liberation of the Congo has yet to be achieved.
This event will offer prescriptions to chart a way forward to a free and liberated Congo, and examine its potential role within the African continent as a whole.
The program will include a dedication and tribute to the life and work of Floribert Chebeya Bahizire (1963 - 2010) a leading Congolese human rights activist, who was suspiciously murdered on June 2, 2010. Hailed as a champion of human rights, as director of Voix des sans Voix (Voice of the Voiceless) Chebeya worked for more than 20 years defending human rights in Congo. Congolese activists in Kinshasa and across the globe are seeking justice through an investigation into his murder, and accountability for those responsible. Congolese activists made a call for a month of action in response to the assassination of Floribert Chebeya. His driver and member of Voice of the Voiceless, whose body has yet to be found will also be acknowledged.
PROGRAM:
Film Screenings and Discussions with the Filmmakers 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm
“Memories of Lumumba” by Lubangi Muniania“The Street Children of Kinsasha” by Gilbert Mulamba“Apocalypse Africa” by Del Walters
Poem Dedication: Christian KuleTribute and Dedication to Floribert Chebeya, remembering, honoring, and celebrating his life and work.Panel Discussion: 4:30 pm- 6:30 pm
Panelists:Dr. Georges NzongolaBibiane TshefuLubangi MunianiaGilbert Mulamba
Moderated By:Del Walters
Closing Remarks:A Call To Action: How To Join The Global Movement
Reception 7:00 pm to 8:30 pmLight refreshments will be served.Featuring:Omekongo Dibinga
A $10 suggested donation at the door will be much appreciated to help with costs. All are welcome. No one turned away. Please RSVP to netfa@ips-dc.org.

Click here for more information.Hosted by: Africa Action, Africa Faith & Justice Network, Congo Global Action, Friends of the Congo, TransAfrica Forum, IPS' Foreign Policy In Focus