Ndigbo of South-East Nigeria have been given a special recognition in the state of Minnesota in the United States, as Governor Tim Walz officially declared every August 13 as Igbo Day.
Newsonline reports that Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota said the decision to give official recognition to the celebration which had been since 1994 followed the contribution of Ndigbo in the development of the state.
Tim Walz enumerated the contribution of Ndigbo in Minnesota in education, volunteering, schools, COVID-19 vaccination, cultural education and good culture sharing between the South-East people of Nigeria and Minnesotans of the United States.
According to Tim Walz in a letter obtained by Newsonline signed and sealed, “The Igbos are one of the major ethnic groups in Nigeria and there are thousands of Igbo residents in Minnesota, some of whom have lived in the state for more than forty-five years and in 1985.
“Igbo Minnesotans formed the non-profit organization of Umunne Cultural Association to unite and educate Igbpd families and Minnesotans about Igbo culture, art, music, and values.
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“And the first IgboFest was held in 1994 to celebrate the rich heritage of the Igbos and to educate Minnesotans about Igbo culture.
“And Igbos in Minnesota have been involved in causes such as education, the arts, volunteering in local schools and organizations, book drives, COVID-19 vaccinations, and cultural performances at local and international festivals and Igbos in Minnesota are working to ensure the sustainability of Igbo culture by creating cultural awareness for the next generation.
“Now, therefore, I, Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota, do hereby proclaim Saturday, August 13, 2022 as IGBO DAY.”
