By By Houleye Thiam
Houleye Thiam
On October 31, 2026, the Mauritanian community in Columbus gathered to celebrate the third annual Mauritania Day, a special occasion recognizing the contributions, culture, and civic engagement of Mauritanians in Ohio.
In 2023, the City of Columbus officially proclaimed October 28 as Mauritania Day. The proclamation serves as an annual reminder of the positive impact Mauritanians have made since their migration to Ohio. It states, “It is an honor that so many in the Mauritanian community have chosen to call Columbus home after seeking asylum and refuge from their country of origin.”
The Mauritanian Network for Human Rights in the United States worked closely with city officials to secure this historic recognition and has organized annual celebrations ever since. This year’s event was held under the leadership of The MNHRUS National President Abdoulaye Sow, alongside Columbus Chapter leaders Houleye Thiam and Amadou Ndiaye,Alhousseyni Aw.
Mauritanians from across the United States traveled to Columbus to participate in the celebration. Delegations attended from Cincinnati Ohio, New York City, Memphis Tennessee, Louisville Kentucky, Dallas, and Houston Texas, as well as Detroy Michigan, demonstrating the growing strength and unity of the Mauritanian diaspora.
The event highlighted the Network’s ongoing commitment to advocating for human rights and raising awareness about the challenges faced by Black Mauritanians. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, the organization continues its mission of standing with oppressed communities, sharing their stories, preserving their culture, and promoting positive change in Mauritania.
Throughout the celebration, leaders of the Mauritanian Network for Human Rights recognized and thanked the many individuals and organizations that have supported the Mauritanian community over the years. Honored partners included the New African Immigrant Commission, Liberian In Columbus(LICI), the Amy Actin Campaign,Greater Success Ohio, Mauritani Min Njejjita, Simakovsky Law, Pulaar Speaking AssociationColumbus chapter, Tabitaal Pulaaku Americas, the Charity Martin King Campaign, Apex 1 Radio, The Legal Aid of Central Ohio, the Don Leonard Campaign, Council Member Nancy Day-Achauer, and the Haitian community of Columbus represented by Sophia Perrelus,and Chidlrens books author Afia Chrappah.
At this event the Network also showcased its authors, Bocar Dieng who recently wrote The Deafening Cry of Mute, and Bocar Guissee, who wrote, Ceerno Am ko Diom DiamaAmadou Sadio Sow,who recently published” Mémoires funestesd’un rescapé de Oualata: Une vie, mille et une leçons”
Mauritanian musicians, were also showcased, as they were able to perform music and show their talents.
The Network also extended special appreciation to the numerous other organizations that have supported Mauritanians in their pursuit of justice, equality, and community advancement both in the United States and abroad.
During the ceremony, Houleye Thiam, Program Director of the Columbus Community Center, reflected on the significance of the occasion.
“This day is a day to celebrate our resilience, our bravery, and our courage to stand up against racial discrimination and slavery in Mauritania.
Thank you for helping us celebrate the partnerships we have built with so many wonderful individuals and organizations. Many may not have known much about Mauritania, yet they chose to stand with us, cry with us, celebrate with us, and declare that discrimination against Black Mauritanians is unacceptable.”
In his keynote address, National President Abdoulaye Sow emphasized the importance of the dual milestone being celebrated.
“It is with immense pride, gratitude, and a profound sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as President of the Mauritanian Network for Human Rights in the United States.
Today, we celebrate not only the third anniversary of Mauritania Day but also the eighth anniversary of our organization.
Eight years of advocacy. Eight years of community service. Eight years of standing up for human dignity, justice, equality, and the fundamental rights of our people.”
Sow expressed his gratitude to the City of Columbus for officially recognizing the Mauritanian community through the designation of Mauritania Day.
“This recognition means more to us than words can adequately express. It sends a powerful message that the Mauritanian community belongs, that our contributions matter, and that our cultural identity enriches the beautiful diversity of this great American city.”
He also thanked the many elected officials, community leaders, partner organizations, members of the African diaspora, fellow Mauritanians, and American friends who attended the celebration, noting that their presence demonstrated solidarity, friendship, and mutual respect across cultures and communities.
Recognizing the work behind the organization’s success, Sow paid tribute to the Mauritanian Network’s Board of Directors, chapter leaders, Land Committee members, community center coordinators, and volunteers.
“No organization reaches its eighth anniversary through the efforts of one individual. Progress is always the result of collective sacrifice, shared vision, and unwavering dedication.
Your continued efforts, often carried out quietly and without recognition, represent the very best of community service.”
The celebration concluded as a powerful reminder of the resilience, unity, and achievements of the Mauritanian community, as well as its ongoing commitment to justice, equality, and cultural preservation. As Mauritania Day continues to grow, it remains a symbol of the community’s enduring contributions to Columbus, Ohio, and the United States as a whole.
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