Liberian Americans

Wilmot Collins Interviewed by VOA in 2017 (cropped)

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Kwity Paye 2018

Joe Ragland

Liberian Americans are Americans of full or partial Liberian ancestry. This group includes immigrants from Liberia to the United States and their descendants. The history of Liberian Americans is deeply intertwined with the broader African American experience, and the history of Liberia itself, a country founded in the early 19th century by freed African American slaves and free African Americans with the help of the American Colonization Society.

History

The history of Liberian Americans begins in the early 19th century when the American Colonization Society established Liberia as a destination for freed African Americans seeking a new life and as a solution to the "problem" of the presence of free blacks in American society. Over several decades, thousands of freed slaves and free-born African Americans relocated to Liberia, establishing a new nation that mirrored the political and social structures of the United States.

In the late 20th century, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s, a new wave of Liberian immigrants arrived in the United States, fleeing the Liberian Civil War. These newer immigrants sought refuge from the violence and instability that plagued their home country, significantly increasing the population of Liberian Americans.

Demographics

Liberian Americans are primarily concentrated in states such as Minnesota, Georgia, Maryland, and North Carolina. Minnesota, in particular, has a large Liberian community, with the city of Brooklyn Park being known for its significant Liberian population.

Culture

Liberian American culture is a rich blend of African and American traditions, reflecting the unique history of Liberia and its founding by American freedmen. Cultural expressions can be seen in cuisine, music, and festivals, which often celebrate Liberian heritage and the broader African American experience.

Notable Liberian Americans

Several Liberian Americans have gained prominence in various fields, including politics, sports, and the arts. Notable individuals include George Weah, a former professional soccer player and the current President of Liberia, who spent part of his career playing for clubs in the United States.

Challenges

Liberian Americans, particularly recent immigrants, face several challenges, including adjusting to life in the United States, dealing with the legal and immigration system, and sometimes confronting discrimination. The Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) status of many Liberians has been a significant issue, with changes in immigration policy affecting their ability to live and work in the United States.

Community and Organizations

Liberian Americans have established various organizations and community groups to support one another, preserve their culture, and advocate for their rights and interests. These organizations play a crucial role in the social and cultural life of Liberian American communities.

Conclusion

Liberian Americans contribute to the multicultural tapestry of the United States, bringing a unique perspective shaped by their dual heritage. Their history and ongoing contributions reflect the complex interplay of migration, identity, and the pursuit of the American dream.