Ciara, the renowned American singer, has officially become a citizen of Benin, reflecting a growing trend among nations to reconnect with descendants of the transatlantic slave trade.
Ciara Celebrates Benin Citizenship Under New Law for Slavery Descendants
Ciara Celebrates Benin Citizenship Under New Law for Slavery Descendants
US Grammy winner Ciara embraces her new citizenship in Benin, marking a historic bond with her ancestral roots.
Amidst a vibrant ceremony in Cotonou, US Grammy-winning artist Ciara expressed profound honor in receiving her citizenship from the Beninese government. This significant milestone marks one of the first instances of a public figure being granted nationality under Benin's recently enacted My Afro Origins Law, aimed at welcoming descendants of enslaved Africans.
In her Instagram announcement, Ciara shared her heartfelt gratitude towards Benin, stating, "Thank you Benin for opening your arms and your heart to me." The citizenship initiative aligns with Benin's broader goal of strengthening ties with the African diaspora and promoting cultural tourism. The government noted that this act transcends mere administration, representing a symbolic gesture to reclaim ancestral roots severed by history's cruelty.
Last year, Benin joined other West African nations, such as Ghana and Guinea-Bissau, in offering citizenship to individuals with ancestral ties to the transatlantic slave trade, empowering descendants through a dedicated online application platform.
In a related effort to strengthen cultural connections, Benin recently appointed esteemed filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, producer Tonya Lewis Lee, as ambassadors for African-Americans in the United States.
Historically, Benin's coastline formed a significant part of the Slave Coast, functioning as a key departure point for enslaved Africans between 1580 and 1727. This period saw the Kingdom of Whydah exporting over a million individuals to the Americas, forever altering countless lives and histories.
As Benin continues to foster these connections, more descendants are encouraged to seek roots that resonate deeply with their identities, symbolizing a shared journey towards healing and recognition.
For more updates on this story and others like it, follow us on social media or visit our website.
In her Instagram announcement, Ciara shared her heartfelt gratitude towards Benin, stating, "Thank you Benin for opening your arms and your heart to me." The citizenship initiative aligns with Benin's broader goal of strengthening ties with the African diaspora and promoting cultural tourism. The government noted that this act transcends mere administration, representing a symbolic gesture to reclaim ancestral roots severed by history's cruelty.
Last year, Benin joined other West African nations, such as Ghana and Guinea-Bissau, in offering citizenship to individuals with ancestral ties to the transatlantic slave trade, empowering descendants through a dedicated online application platform.
In a related effort to strengthen cultural connections, Benin recently appointed esteemed filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, producer Tonya Lewis Lee, as ambassadors for African-Americans in the United States.
Historically, Benin's coastline formed a significant part of the Slave Coast, functioning as a key departure point for enslaved Africans between 1580 and 1727. This period saw the Kingdom of Whydah exporting over a million individuals to the Americas, forever altering countless lives and histories.
As Benin continues to foster these connections, more descendants are encouraged to seek roots that resonate deeply with their identities, symbolizing a shared journey towards healing and recognition.
For more updates on this story and others like it, follow us on social media or visit our website.
