On April 14, 1979, Liberia experienced a colossal uprising that would mark a radical turning point in its history.
By: Austin S Fallah: A True Son of the Soil:
This day, which is etched in the memory of Liberian patriots, is an emphatic testament to the fight for freedom, civil rights, and national identity.
This struggle was not exclusively for political rights but for the very essence of recognition and dignity of the indigenous Liberians.
As the history of Liberia unfolds, it is found scarred by prolonged years of oppression and human rights abuses directed toward the indigenous community.
Characterized by questions questioning their lineage, their parental background, and a plethora of un-nationalistic queries, indigenous Liberians faced an existential identity crisis.
This prejudice was initiated by hierarchical social structures that questioned their credibility as legitimate citizens of Liberia, hindering them from assuming leadership positions like being President, Senator, Representative, or Cabinet Minister.
Against this backdrop, the uprising on April 14, 1979, became a symbolic gesture of resistance and reclamation of national identity.
It marks a remarkable shift in Liberian history, paving the way for a democratic future where an indigenous man or woman could claim his or her rights without any apprehension or fear of judgment.
As we saw or see many on the council of state, a Weah as President, a Boakai as President, a Koffa as Speaker, a Kangar as President Pro-tempore, and many more in the seats of authority making national decisions for the good of every Liberian including those who suppressed the indigenous for 133 years.
This resistance displayed the bravery of men and women who risked their lives to change the narrative of their existence and assert their place in the socio-political arena of Liberia.
The heroes of this resistance, whether departed or living, deserve the respect and honor of the Liberian people.
Their valiance and resilience marked the inception of a radical transformation in Liberian history.
The heroes of April 14 not only fought for their rights but also laid the foundation for a democratic future where the indigenous community could partake in leadership roles without any discrimination or bias.
Today, Liberia is a sovereign nation with a democratic system that allows indigenous people to stand tall and proud in positions of influence and authority.
Today, we can confidently say, “Yes, I am a President, a Senator, a Representative, a Cabinet Minister. and a positive contributor to the social and economic development of Mama-Liberia.”
They do so, not under the shadow of their ancestors’ embarrassment but in the light of their ancestors’ pride and the tremendous sacrifices made on one fateful day in April 1979.
In appreciation of these remarkable contributions in shaping Liberia’s history, it is befitting to dedicate a monument to honor these brave individuals.
This monument will not only serve as a symbol of Liberia’s struggle for freedom but also as a standing testament to the courageous souls who dared to challenge the status quo and fight against oppression and discrimination.
It is only fitting that all patriotic sons and daughters of Liberia pay homage to these gallant individuals who played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s identity.
The significance of April 14, 1979, provides an avenue to express our gratitude to the heroes and heroines of that revolutionary day.
It allows us to reflect on their bravery, to appreciate them for their sacrifices, and to remember them for the freedom we now enjoy.
It is, without a doubt, a “fantamaglorious” tribute to our Liberian heroes.
The struggle and sacrifice of these heroes are a stepping stone for the democratic and national identity that Liberia proudly upholds today.
Therefore, it is our responsibility to ensure that their legacy never fades into oblivion.
We must remember them as game-changers who took bold steps to rewrite Liberian history.
As bearers of this history now, we must protect, preserve, and celebrate our past’s honor to build a prosperous future for Liberia.
The true tribute to our heroes/heroines lies not in mere words, but in living the life of dignity and freedom they strived for; a life that says, “Yes, I am a President, a Senator, a Representative, a Cabinet Minister,” without anyone questioning one lineage or the land he/she belongs to.
This is the essence of appreciating those who have written the pages of our freedom story.
In doing so, we do not merely honor them; we define our national identity through national reconciliation for the good of every Liberian.