Monrovia– Rev. Torli H. Krua, founder of the Free Liberia Movement and Universal Human Rights International, has concluded his nationwide “Juneteenth Across the Atlantic” campaign with a rally at the Joseph Jenkins Roberts Monument in Monrovia, where he declared what he described as the “final arrival of freedom—245 years late, but still timely.”
The closing event, held on July 5, coincided with activities marking the United States’ 250th anniversary and served as the culmination of a nationwide campaign aimed at encouraging dialogue on the historical ties between Liberia and the United States, racial justice, citizenship, and national reconciliation.
Addressing supporters, Rev. Krua urged U.S. President Donald J. Trump to use America’s semiquincentennial celebration as an opportunity to expand the national conversation on liberty, equality, unity, and reconciliation.
He argued that while military strength remains important, lasting national security depends on investment in citizen-led peacebuilding efforts.
“Military power alone cannot secure a nation divided from within,” Krua said, calling for a federally funded competitive grant program to support community-based reconciliation initiatives. He proposed that such a program be financed through annual U.S. defense appropriations and implemented by faith organizations, schools, civic groups, and local leaders to strengthen social cohesion and reduce political and racial divisions.
Calls for America 250 Unity and Reconciliation Act
A major focus of Krua’s address was his renewed appeal for adoption of a proposed America 250 Unity and Reconciliation Act, which he said would acknowledge the United States government’s historical role in the establishment of Liberia and promote reconciliation between the two nations.
He urged President Trump to support the proposal, alongside leaders of the Republican and Democratic parties, the Libertarian Party, The Good Party, faith-based organizations, and missionary agencies operating in Liberia.
Krua also paid tribute to the late Benjamin Swan, whom he credited with championing the initiative before his death.
Citizenship Proposal Revived
Rev. Krua reiterated his long-standing proposal for legislation restoring U.S. citizenship to “all persons born in Liberia,” arguing that such action would be consistent with his interpretation of America’s founding principles and several historical legal documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Massachusetts Constitution of 1780, the Brom and Bett v. Ashley decision, and early constitutional documents relating to Liberia.
He described the proposal as an act of historical reciprocity, noting Liberia’s longstanding policy of welcoming American settlers and residents without requiring visas or naturalization during much of the country’s history.
“America 250 presents a unique opportunity to restore trust, equality, liberty, and justice,” Krua said. “It is an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices of Black patriots whose contributions helped secure American independence and to tell the full story of our shared history.”
Honors to Historical Figures
The campaign honored the contributions of Elizabeth Freeman, widely known as Mumbet, whose successful freedom lawsuit helped pave the way for the abolition of slavery in Massachusetts.
Rev. Krua also paid tribute to Crispus Attucks, recognized as the first person killed during the American Revolution, as well as the late Benjamin Swan and Amanda Tussie Makor.
New Initiatives Announced
The Monrovia rally also marked the launch of several initiatives spearheaded by Rev. Krua, including YOUNG-Africa.org, a platform promoting youth leadership, civic participation, and reconciliation, as well as a new podcast focused on history, democracy, and national healing.
He also announced the forthcoming publication of his book, Exile by Design: How the United States Constitution Divides America in Two and What We Can Do About It, which examines constitutional questions surrounding colonization, citizenship, and American national unity.
Rev. Krua concluded the campaign by calling on Liberia’s religious leaders, members of the diplomatic community—including the U.S. ambassador to Liberia—and officials of President Joseph Boakai’s administration to work together in promoting truth, reconciliation, and stronger Liberia–United States relations.
Following the conclusion of the rally, Rev. Krua departed Liberia for Boston, Massachusetts, where he said he would continue advocating for dialogue on history, citizenship, reconciliation, and what he described as the unfinished work of achieving liberty and equal justice for all.
