Summary
Benin has chosen American filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, Tonya Lewis Lee, to serve as ambassadors for African-Americans in the United States. They will help strengthen connections between Benin and people of African descent, encouraging them to explore their heritage and possibly apply for citizenship in Benin.
Key Facts
- Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee were named ambassadors by Benin.
- They will promote Benin's connections with African-Americans.
- Their appointment was finalized during their visit to Cotonou, Benin’s capital.
- Benin is encouraging people of African descent to reconnect with their roots.
- A new law lets individuals with ancestors taken in the slave trade apply for Benin citizenship.
- Benin recently launched a website for descendants of enslaved Africans to apply for citizenship.
- Ghana previously launched a "Year of Return" campaign to invite people of African heritage back to Africa.
- Benin’s coast was historically a major departure point for the transatlantic slave trade.
