Remarks by Emmanuel Njenga Wathiomo '23 (Kenya), Chairman of the ALA Student Government, at Taalu—ALA's Opening Ceremony.
Good Afternoon.
Wow. Just wow.
We all deserve a view from up here.
If you’ve ever wondered how a collection of about 40 nationalities, all adorned in what they define as cultural attire, just take a look around the room and take it in. We all look exquisite, resplendent if I may.
Taalu could not have come at a better time. It’s always when temperatures are high that it becomes the most challenging to sit back and take a chance to appreciate what makes this experience worthwhile.
Today is about celebrating arguably one of the most special components of our stay on campus.
Today is about the people, as our Chairlady beautifully put it.
About how what makes us different from the next person, is ironically what adds life when we come together. About Diversity. And what better avenue to celebrate this than in the ceremony of coming together.
However, in a world where we pride ourselves on being inclusive, it is often easy to be lost in aesthetics and forget that diversity is not easy and it is certainly not always comfortable.
Because appreciation for diversity is not just in bringing together people who look different but think the same. It is also about bringing together people who think differently and realizing that those differences are precisely what makes us stronger, smarter and generally a more wholesome community.
As James Baldwin put it, ‘We can disagree and still love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist.”
Diversity is also allowing those around us to be authentic – to showcase their wonderful but different selves. It is about allowing our authentic selves to shine through, and not just what we deem acceptable. Because how else would we feel seen, loved and appreciated.
That said, this is a day of celebration. Celebration of the fact that, in the recorded history of our continent, the presence of everyone in this room under this premise is probably the closest we’ve come to actual pan-Africanism. Our presence is a wonder of probability and our impact I am sure will transcend generations.
That is why our calling is not easy.
But the fact that we have not risen up against each other is testament to how great we have handled this not-so-simple calling – one that many across time have failed miserably, and still continue to fail.
So let us not just recognize this gift that we have for today only, and then bury our attires in our closet until the next year. Our Dean is a prime example that our ankaras and kitenges can be worn anytime across the year. And even if that is your plan, don’t do so before defying history and taking a photo (at least a couple) with someone from across the continent and beyond.
To our esteemed guests here with us and those joining us from afar, I further extend a warm welcome to our vibrant gathering.
To our dedicated faculty, whose unwavering efforts make this space feel more like home, I offer our heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the student body.
To our Yewans (Year 1s) and SEGLs, as you navigate your way into this new home, remember—you’ve got this. At least half of this room and so many more have been in your shoes and have found their way through. Trust in your journey, and know that you too will thrive.
To my fellow Yetus (Year 2s). Our unity has been what has defined us this far, and I cannot wait to see where it takes us throughout the course of this daring year.
Thank you community. My name is Emmanuel Njenga Wathiomo from Kenya. And it is always an honor to address you as your Student Government Chairman.
