Rev. Collins Stirs Liberians @ 178th Independence Day

Rev. Collins Stirs Liberians @ 178th Independence Day

 …AS OLM Observes 50th Anniversary In Minnesota

By Cyrus Joel McGee

Brooklyn Park, MN

The Liberian-American community in Minnesota was treated to a powerful and reflective keynote address delivered by Reverend Alexander B. Collins at a dual celebration marking the 178th Independence Day of Liberia and the 50th Anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of the Organization of Liberians in Minnesota (OLM).

The commemorative event, held in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, drew hundreds of Liberians and friends of Liberia in a night that was as much about celebration as it was about vision, history, and call to action.

Rev. Collins, serves as Lead Pastor of Redeemed Life Church, and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Liberian Ministers Association in Minnesota.

He captivated the audience with a stirring message, under the theme: “A Nation Preserved by Grace,” and the sub-theme: “Diaspora Rising: For the Liberia We Love, for the Transformational Legacy We Need.”

A Speech Rooted in History and Hope

From the onset, Rev. Collins grounded his remarks in a deep historical context, painting Liberia’s past through three lenses: the nationalist strain, representing indigenous patriots; the colonialist strain, reflecting the complex legacy of freed African Americans, who settled in Liberia, and the pragmatic strain, highlighting modern-day bridge-builders working across divides to heal, unite, and rebuild.

“Liberia’s story is not a solo; it’s a symphony,” Rev. Collins declared. “And like all great music, it carries three intertwined melodies.”

He traced the country’s roots through indigenous leaders, including King Peter, Chief Zolu Duma, and King Boatswain, names often overshadowed in national symbols, and contrasted them with settlers like Joseph Jenkins Roberts and Hilary Teage, who were instrumental in declaring the country’s independence in 1847.

Yet, Collins cried that the country’s official symbols; its flag, anthem, and seal failed to adequately honor both pillars of its dual heritage.

“We fly a flag that tells of arrival, but not of welcome,” he said. “We sing of liberty, but not of those who bled before its promise was penned.”

A Bold Call for Symbolic and Civic Reform

Rev. Collins called for sweeping changes to the country’s national consciousness, including the formation of a National Unity Commission to review national symbols and the introduction of holidays and monuments honoring indigenous Liberian leaders.

He underscored the importance of inclusive education, and storytelling, saying: “A truly united Liberia cannot rise on foundations it refuses to name.”

Collins challenged Liberians in the diaspora to evaluate their role in the struggle for a better nation. Drawing from classical Greek thought, he categorized members of society as idiots (the indifferent), tribesmen (the dividers), and citizens (the builders), urging the community to reject apathy and tribalism in favor of civic engagement.

“The future belongs to citizens,” he said, adding: “Not complainers; not cliques, but citizens who show up, speak out, and build bridges.”

Proposal for 2026: All-Liberians-in-Minnesota Conference

In one of the speech’s most tangible moments, Rev. Collins announced a bold proposal for a 2026 All-Liberians-in-Minnesota Conference, a strategic and inclusive gathering to unify voices across generations, tribes, religions, and political divides.

He pledged US$1,000 of his own funds toward the initiative, and invited others to match it. “Let us not wait for history to gather us through crisis,” he told the audience. “Let us gather now by choice, with courage, and for purpose.”

OLM at 50: Honoring the Legacy, Renewing the Vision

Turning his focus to OLM, Rev. Collins praised the organization for its transformation from a student-founded entity into a dynamic institution providing training, healthcare access, and community support.

“From the community hall to the city hall, and yes, one day to the State Capitol, let our voice be heard,” he said, urging the community to channel its growing professional success into collective empowerment.

Collins also challenged the organization to rethink its associations with corrupt Liberian officials, refusing to meet with known figures involved in corruption.

“We can help the government in Liberia fight corruption by taking small steps,” noting: “Our absence will send a message.”

A Charge to the Diaspora

Rev. Collins closed with a stirring charge to Liberians both in the U.S. and at home to rise as pragmatists and citizens, to reject scarcity and division, and to become builders of legacy.

“Let us be the generation that turned the corner from grievance to governance, from trauma to triumph,” he declared.

Collins: “Because a nation preserved by grace deserves a diaspora powered by vision.”

The crowd gave Rev. Collins a standing ovation as he concluded with a prayer for Liberia, OLM, and the next generation of leaders.

About the Event

The celebration was organized by OLM, the largest and oldest Liberian association in the diaspora. This year marked 178th years since Liberia became Africa’s first independent republic in 1847, and 50th  years since OLM’s founding in 1975.

The event featured speeches, cultural performances, and awards. It was attended by civic leaders, including Representative Huldah Momanyi-Hiltsley, Brooklyn Park Mayor Hollies J. Winston, and other community influencers.

 

As the Liberian community looks toward its bicentennial in 2047, Rev. Collins’ speech will likely stand as a defining moment—both a mirror and a map for Liberians in the diaspora and beyond.