Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee: Advocating for African Diaspora Citizenship in Benin
In a compelling interview with El-Balad during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, renowned filmmaker Spike Lee and producer Tonya Lewis Lee discussed their recent appointment as thematic ambassadors to Benin, aimed at connecting with the African American diaspora. This initiative offers citizenship to descendants of enslaved Africans, a gesture designed to strengthen ties between the United States and the West African nation.
Understanding Benin’s Citizenship Initiative
Benin has taken a unique step by providing citizenship to the descendants of enslaved individuals without imposing any financial investment. Spike Lee expressed a heartfelt message, stating, “Our brothers and sisters in Benin are telling us: come home, welcome us home, come back to the motherland. Come back [to] where your roots are.” This initiative symbolizes a profound reconnection with heritage for many African Americans.
Lee Couple’s Vision for the Future
Spike and Tonya envision their role in this initiative as a potential model for other African nations. They believe that Benin’s policy could serve as a blueprint to foster similar pathways for citizenship, encouraging other countries to engage with their diaspora.
Reflections on Race Relations in the U.S.
During the conversation, the filmmakers addressed the current political landscape in the United States, particularly regarding race relations under Donald Trump’s presidency. Describing it as “the year of living dangerously,” Spike Lee echoed sentiments from the classic film by Peter Weir, reflecting societal tensions that have emerged.
Tonya Lewis Lee provided her insights on race in America, stating, “To me, Donald Trump is nothing new. I think he’s saying the quiet parts out loud.” She elaborated on the cyclical nature of progress and setbacks in racial equality, recalling her parents’ experiences in the segregated South: “I think we make a lot of progress, and then we make steps backwards, and then we make progress again.”
Despite these challenges, Tonya exhibited a sense of optimism, asserting, “The good news is, Donald Trump will not be president forever. And people will rise up, as they are [doing].”
Public Response and Hope for Justice
Spike Lee supported his wife’s perspective, noting recent events that showcase public response to political issues, such as comedian Jimmy Kimmel’s temporary removal from the air followed by reinstatement after public outcry. He remarked, “People are being galvanised by what’s happening in the White House. So justice is going to prevail.”
This commitment to social justice and reconnection with heritage highlights the importance of initiatives like Benin’s citizenship offer, forging a path forward for many within the African American community.
