MONROVIA – Ambassador Juli Endee, the dedicated Executive Director of the Liberia Crusaders for Peace (LCP), remains resolute in her unwavering commitment to foster and secure the lasting peace and security of Liberia while upholding the nation’s culture and traditions. Over the years, Ambassador Juli Endee has played a pivotal role in Liberia’s development, particularly in her interactions with traditional leaders, preserving Liberian culture and heritage, and serving as a bridge between the general public and traditional communities.
In an exclusive interview, Ambassador Juli Endee reiterated her determination to tirelessly pursue uninterrupted and sustainable peace in Liberia, a mission she embarked upon decades ago. She solemnly declared, “I will never tire, and I will continue to engage until God takes my life.” Her paramount prayer for Liberia encompasses two vital components: continuous peace and sovereignty. Her aspiration is for Liberia to stand as a beacon of hope for Africa and maintain its historical significance as the first independent state on the continent.
Championing Peace
Ambassador Juli Endee’s relentless pursuit of peace in Liberia has manifested through the Liberia Crusaders for Peace, an organization she has led for more than two decades. The organization recently marked 20 years of unbroken peace in Liberia with the “KUKATORNON” (“We Are One”) peace initiative. This event commemorated the comprehensive peace agreement that ended the Liberian civil war on August 18, 2004, in Accra, Ghana. The 2023 edition of this celebration, themed “Let’s Sustain the Peace,” was held at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Liberia.
Ambassador Juli Endee vividly recalls the dark days of December 24, 1989, when Liberia faced the ominous threat of civil unrest led by Charles G. Taylor. She acknowledges the progress made since those tumultuous times and aims to showcase Liberia’s remarkable journey towards peace to the world.
Ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Ambassador Juli Endee has also played a crucial role in efforts to end the harmful practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Liberia. In February 2023, Chief Zanzan Karwor, head of the Chiefs and Elders Council, imposed a permanent ban on FGM in Montserrado County, marking a significant milestone in the fight against this harmful practice. While the ban initially applies to Montserrado County, plans are in place to extend it to other counties after extensive engagement with traditional women.
Ambassador Juli Endee views this as a positive step forward and believes that the traditional people of Liberia are embracing this change. She hopes that Liberia’s success in curbing FGM will serve as an example for neighboring countries and that the government and partners will continue to promote Liberia’s rich culture.
Promoting Peaceful Elections
As Liberia approaches the October 10, 2023, elections, Ambassador Juli Endee emphasizes the importance of peaceful campaigning. She encourages political actors to focus on their manifestos and qualifications rather than resorting to intimidation, violence, or harassment. She acknowledges the eagerness of many Liberians to participate in government positions but underscores the need for civil discourse and peaceful elections. Ambassador Juli Endee, as a social worker, remains committed to fostering dialogue and promoting peace during this critical time.
Golden Image Award
Ambassador Juli Endee is the driving force behind the prestigious Golden Image Award, which has become a highly sought-after accolade. The award ceremony, known for celebrating individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, innovation, and impact in their respective fields, has garnered national recognition and support, including praise from the President of Liberia. It has become synonymous with excellence and serves as a benchmark for success.
Liberia Crusaders for Peace
The Liberia Crusaders for Peace (LCP), founded and led by Ambassador Juli Endee, is a local non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 1994. Registered under Liberian law in 2001, the LCP operates throughout Liberia with a dedicated team of staff, animators, mobilizers, and supervisors. The LCP’s mission involves advocacy, social mobilization, and behavior change communication through various means such as community dialogues, theater, music, and dance.
Over the years, the LCP has implemented numerous projects in collaboration with organizations like UNICEF, WFP, WHO, and the Ministry of Health. These projects have covered a wide range of initiatives, including polio eradication, education campaigns, and HIV/AIDS awareness. The LCP is also an active participant in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Gender Committee.
In summary, Ambassador Juli Endee’s enduring dedication to the peace, culture, and traditions of Liberia is reflected through her leadership in the Liberia Crusaders for Peace, her role in ending FGM, her advocacy for peaceful elections, and her establishment of the prestigious Golden Image Award. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on Liberia’s development and cultural preservation.
