The Federation of Liberian Mandingo Associations of the United state of America (Felmausa) national convention is here. As the event is about to start, I’m appealing to all participants that the goal of the federation is to unify and not divide. The dream of this organization is to bring together members of our Mandingo ethnic group from all over America to celebrate unity and sing the song of unity.

The convention is an occasion that brings together family, friends, and neighbors that have not seen each other for a year or more.  It will be prudent for our community to take advantage of this venture by sharing ideas that will uplift our already divided and alienated community.

Today the Mandingo community can boast of prominent lawyers, accountants, doctors, nurses, engineers, social workers, professors, journalists, and many more. Bringing together these high levels educated individuals is a victory in itself for our community. A Win! Win!

The Federation has undertaken two separate conventions that were both successful. This year convention is taking a different trend as the elections momentum is now overshadowing all other activities. I urge contesting parties vying for positions during the convention to please take into consideration the following concerns: The campaign is open, but remember that Felmausa is an organization of brothers and sisters from one unique background. We should treat each other with respect.

Candidates should identify and focus on the problems affecting our community and country. Contestants should discuss issues and not personalities. Listen to advices with open minds and apply them constructively for the betterment of our community. Each and everyone who is attending this convention have a major role to play in the process and should remember to take responsibility for their actions. If these areas are observed properly, we will realize A Win! Win!

The convention participants should please avoid attacking candidates’ family orientation or blaming individuals’ family backgrounds. Please, no name calling or threatening each other. Discussing past family issues of each other should be totally avoided. We should denounce putting each other down in public. Candidates should respond to issues of concern accurately and avoid making excuses. There should be absolutely no physical actions during the entire process. If we control our emotions during the entire process, this will be considered as a victory for all of us. A Win! Win!

We should take advantage of the lesson we learned here in America during the recent US elections that declared OBAMA victorious. Tolerant, respect, and acceptance should be one of our strong motto. We as Mandingo founded this Federation (FELMAUSA) for a specific goal. Leadership should not distract our good intention.

Today, this organization is one of the hopes of our people at home Liberia and abroad.  We should all bear in mind that our unity here in the USA would be a giant step for our community unity worldwide. Let’s get out there in numbers to celebrate and share ideas. Let’s raise money for the empowerment of our organization. It’s time to share fun and be happy. As we prepare for Minnesota, ladies and gentlemen, I wish everyone a save trip and good luck at the convention. Remember, we are one big family targeting one goal (UNITY) Win! Win!

By Abubakr O. Sillah

Board Chairman (LIMAP), Board Member (FELMAUSA), Aspirant Board Member (LAP)