By By Danlette Washington
Liberians at home and across the diaspora marked the 179th Independence Day of the Republic of Liberia on Sunday, July 26, 2026, with colorful celebrations and cultural events.
From Monrovia to communities across the United States and around the world, Liberians came together through parades, flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances, gala dinners, worship services, and field days to honor their homeland while living abroad.
Although Liberia officially commemorates its Independence Day on July 26, celebrations were held throughout the weekend in several cities across the diaspora.
As festivities took place in Liberia and throughout the diaspora, community leaders used the occasion to reaffirm the importance of national unity and called for greater civic inclusion for Liberians living abroad.
Serving as keynote speaker, the All Liberian Conference on Dual Citizenship (ALCOD) Chairman, Eminent Emmanuel S. Wettee, traveled to Perth, Western Australia, where he delivered the Independence Day message at the Liberian Community of Western Australia’s 179th Independence Day celebration. This year’s program was held under the theme, “Unity in Diversity.”
In his keynote address, Eminent Wettee emphasized that Liberia’s diversity should be viewed as a source of strength rather than division.
“We speak different dialects, represent different counties, belong to different churches and mosques, come from different political backgrounds, and now call different countries home. Yet despite all of these differences, one thing continues to unite us—we are Liberians,” he said.
He encouraged Liberians around the world to remain committed to peace, reconciliation, and nation-building, while recognizing the important role the diaspora continues to play in Liberia’s future.
Wettee also highlighted the significance of dual citizenship as an important milestone in strengthening the bond between Liberia and its citizens abroad and reiterated ALCOD’s commitment to expanding diaspora engagement through advocacy for Out-of-Country Voting.
“Our diversity should never divide us. Instead, it should strengthen us,” he said. “As members of the diaspora, we have become ambassadors for Liberia. Every day, Liberians across the world contribute through education, healthcare, business, entrepreneurship, public service, and community leadership.”
He urged Liberians to rise above political, regional, and tribal differences and work collectively toward a stronger nation.
“Political differences should never become personal divisions. County affiliations should never overshadow our national identity. Regional differences should never weaken our commitment to one Liberia.”
In addition to that, the All Liberian Conference on Dual Citizenship (ALCOD) used the occasion to reaffirm the important role of the Liberian diaspora in nation-building.
In its Independence Day message, ALCOD celebrated the contributions of Liberians abroad through remittances, investments, and service, while urging diaspora Liberians to support ALCOD’s advocacy for Out-of-Country Voting; emphasizing that giving Liberians living overseas the opportunity to participate in the democratic process would help build a more inclusive and stronger Liberia.
“An inclusive democracy is a stronger democracy, and every Liberian deserves the opportunity to have their voice heard,” the organization stated.
Meanwhile, Liberians in Columbus, Inc. (LICI) celebrated the occasion with several events throughout the week. The organization participated in the United African Festival, the launch of the LICI Free Community Store, the annual Liberian Flag Raising Ceremony at the Ohio Statehouse, and concluded with the organization’s 179th Independence Day Gala Dinner and Fundraiser on Friday evening, followed by a Community Thanksgiving Service on Sunday.
One of the highlights of the gala was the keynote address delivered by former LICI Executive Director Alpha Tongor, who used the Liberian country cloth as a symbol of nation-building and shared responsibility.
Tongor explained that every thread woven into the country cloth represents people coming together to build something stronger. He encouraged Liberians to remain committed to community development, invest in the next generation, and create a legacy that can be passed on to young people.
He also emphasized the importance of empowering youth, reminding attendees that today’s efforts will shape the Liberia future generations inherit.
In Washington, D.C., Liberians gathered at the Embassy of Liberia to celebrate the nation’s independence with patriotic activities and reflections on the country’s journey.
Moreover, New Jersey hosted one of the largest street parades, bringing together hundreds of Liberians dressed in the national colors and showcasing the country’s cultural heritage through music, dancing, and traditional performances.
Founded in 1822, Liberia declared its independence on July 26, 1847, becoming Africa’s first independent republic. The country is widely known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions, and natural resources.
Liberia has also made significant contributions to Africa and the world. In 2005, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf became Africa’s first democratically elected female president, inspiring women across the continent and beyond. The nation also produced George Weah, the only African footballer to win both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards in 1995, before later serving as President of Liberia.
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