On March 6th, the hallways of Doherty High School were filled with vibrant colors of red, gold, green, and black as Ghanaian students proudly celebrated their country’s Independence Day. Dressed in traditional attire, carrying scarves, and waving the Ghanaian flag high, these students honored the rich history of their homeland and showcased their national pride for all to see.
Ghana’s Independence Day marks a significant moment in world history. On this day in 1957, Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from colonial rule. Before this monumental event, Ghana, known as the Gold Coast due to its vast reserves of gold, had been under British control since the late 19th century. The struggle for self-rule began as early as the 1920s, with African representation growing stronger under the post-World War II Constitution, leading to a pivotal moment in 1957 when Dr. Kwame Nkrumah successfully negotiated Ghana’s freedom. He later became the first Prime Minister and President of the newly independent nation.
To this day, Ghana’s independence is celebrated with grand street parties and parades at Independence Square in Osu, where citizens proudly sing the national anthem, God Bless Our Homeland Ghana, written and composed by Philip Gbeho. This patriotic tradition reflects the unity and resilience of the Ghanaian people, both in Ghana and across the world.
The fight for Ghana’s independence was not only led by men but also by remarkable women who made lasting contributions. Susanna Al-Hassan, Ghana’s first female minister, was a trailblazer for women’s rights, advocating for better education and economic opportunities. Mabel Dove Danquah, a pioneering journalist, used her writings to push for independence and women’s political participation, eventually becoming the first woman elected to Ghana’s National Assembly in 1954. Hannah Kudjoe played a crucial role in organizing protests and empowering women during and after the independence movement. And Theodosia Okoh, both an artist and an athlete, designed the Ghanaian national flag—a symbol of freedom and unity that continues to inspire generations.
The Ghanaian students at Doherty carried this legacy forward by demonstrating their unwavering pride and appreciation for their heritage. Their display of cultural celebration and remembrance serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Ghanaian independence and the strength of its people, no matter where they are in the world.