Promoting & Preserving the Sierra Leone Krio Heritage in Maryland, USA
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About KDU-maryland
"LEH WI GEDA WI SEF"
KDU-Maryland is a non-profit organization that was established in October 2015. With a strong commitment to the Maryland Krio community, KDU-Maryland has been providing valuable services for over 8 years. Throughout its existence, the organization has played a vital role in supporting and empowering the Maryland Krio community. KDU Maryland recognizes the importance of coming together as a community to promote cultural preservation, identity, and pride. Through educational, cultural and social events, KDU-Maryland strives to create a sense of belonging and togetherness among its members.
why we exist?
KDU-Maryland was established to address the growing need for preservation and promotion of the the Sierra Leone Krio Heritage in Maryland, USA. With the passage of time and the influence of globalization, there is a risk that this unique cultural identity may be diluted and lost. It is crucial, therefore, to take proactive measures to preserve and promote the Sierra Leone Krio Heritage in Maryland and ensuring its continued significance for future generations. This is where KDU-Maryland comes into play.
who are the members?
KDU-Maryland Membership is open to all individuals who can trace their descent to the Krios of Sierra Leone. This includes not only those of Krio heritage, but also their spouses and children. The organization aims to foster unity, preserve cultural heritage, and promote social activities within the Krio community in Maryland. By joining KDU-Maryland, members have the opportunity to connect with others who share a similar background and to engage in activities that celebrate and honor Krio traditions and values.
Our Partner
kdu gLOBAL
who we are a part of?
kdu mARYLAND - A kdu global chapter
KDU-Maryland operates in partnership with KDU-GLOBAL, an organization that brings together 19 KDU Chapters and counting. These chapters are spread across different regions of the world and play a crucial role in the overall success of KDU-GLOBAL. The 19 KDU Chapters within the KDU-GLOBAL network include the following:
KDU GLOBAL chapters
1. KDU Fritong
2. KDU Texas, 2007
3. KDU Northeast, 2009
4. KDU Georgia, 2009
5. KDU North Carolina, 2010
6. KDU New England, 2011
7. KDU Young Adults, 2014
8. Krio Diaspora United So Ontario, 2014
9. KDU California, 2014
10. KDU United, 2015
11. KDU Maryland, 2015
12. KDU Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA), 2017
13. KDU Florida, 2018
14. KDU Central Florida, 2019
15. KDU Ohio, 2020
16. KDU Edmonton Canada, 2021
17. KDU UKI, 2022
18. KDU Australia, 2024
19. KDU Minnesota, 2024
Our History
Who are the Krios?
The Krios of Sierra Leone are direct descendants of freed slaves. We are a community that traces their ancestry back to early settler groups in Freetown, the capital city. These groups were primarily made up of black settlers from America and London, who established the settlement of Freetown in 1792. Another significant group that contributed to the Krio community were the Jamaican Maroons, who arrived in Freetown in 1800, numbering around 500 individuals.
The Krios have a unique history that sets them apart from other communities in Sierra Leone. They are known for their distinct culture, language, and traditions, which have been shaped by their diverse origins. The Krios played a crucial role in the development and growth of Freetown, as they established schools, churches, and businesses that contributed to the city's progress.
One of the defining moments in the history of the Krios was the abolition of the trans-Atlantic slave trade in 1807. During this period, almost 70,000 West and Central Africans were rescued from the clutches of the slave trade and brought to Freetown, where they found refuge and a new beginning. The Krios played an instrumental role in welcoming and integrating these rescued individuals into the community, further enriching the cultural fabric of Sierra Leone.
what we stand for
Our Vision
The vision of KDU Maryland is to provide a forum for cultural expression, a conduit for channeling Krio concerns and participation in the general affairs of Sierra Leoneans at home and in the Washington Metropolitan Area. By providing a platform that embraces these three pillars, we aspire to create a forum that nurtures inclusivity, empowerment, and unity among Sierra Leoneans - especially Krios. Together, we can celebrate cultural heritage, address our unique concerns, and actively contribute to the progress of our community.
Our Mission
The mission of the KDU Maryland is to serve as a platform for Krios to collectively express their cultural identity, address Krio-specific issues, and actively participate in the broader Sierra Leonean diaspora community. KDU-MD is committed to preserving and enhancing the rich cultural heritage of the Krios of Sierra Leone through reflection, education, and charitable initiatives. This collective cultural expression helps to strengthen the identity of Krios and promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of their traditions, customs, and language.
Our Approach
At KDU Maryland, we firmly believe that our presence in the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia) area allows us to forge valuable connections and build relationships that will support and advance our objectives. Our primary focus is on identifying ways in which we can make a meaningful contribution to the progress and growth of our beloved Sierra Leone. We understand the significance of building strong alliances and leveraging these connections to maximize our impact on the development of Sierra Leone.
our values
KDU Maryland's guiding principle is to put God first in everything we do. With a foundation built on faith, love, compassion, integrity, and accountability, we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of the Krios in Sierra Leone. At KDU-MD, we firmly believe in treating everyone with love, dignity, and respect. We understand the importance of valuing each individual and recognizing their worth. Our commitment to respect extends to all members of our organization, as well as to the community we serve.
our goals
educational seminars
educational seminars
educational seminars
Conduct educational seminars to share valuable Krio family history and culture. These seminars provide a platform for individuals to learn about the unique traditions, customs, and beliefs that have shaped the Krio culture over the years.
financial assistance
educational seminars
educational seminars
Establish financial assistance and economic development programs in Sierra Leone and financial literacy classes to revive and empower the Krio business community in Sierra Leone. These programs address the Krio entrepreneur's needs and challenges.
scholarship fund
educational seminars
scholarship fund
Establish a scholarship fund to aid and assist low-income families in providing quality education for children of Krio descent. This initiative aims to address the financial barriers that hinder access to education and create opportunities for deserving Krio students.
networking
community support
scholarship fund
Develop a network of professionals and entrepreneurs to promote mentoring and economic development and growth within the Krio community locally and at large. By connecting professionals, we can create a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences, learn from one another and collaborate on opportunities.
interactions
community support
community support
Create a positive social environment for our children and young adult to interact. A positive social environment plays a crucial role in the development and well-being of children and young adults. It provides them with opportunities to interact, build meaningful relationships, and grow as individuals.
community support
community support
community support
Provide support to Krio descendants in the diaspora to reconnect to their heritage. Preserving the Krio heritage is essential in helping diaspora descendants connect with their roots. Initiatives would be established to preserve and promote Krio language, literature, music, dance, and traditional practices.
AWARDS
Africa Community Service (ACS) 2023 AWARD
Congratulations to KDU Maryland on being awarded the 2023 Africa Community Service (ACS) Award for Impacting Lives!
KDU fLORIDA 2024 GLOBAL FAMILY REUNION AWARD
Congratulations to KDU Maryland on being awarded the KDU Florida 2024 Global Family Reunion Award for the most attendees at the 2024 KDU Global Family Reunion in Florida, USA!
The krio diaspora united southern ontario 2014-2024 AWARD
Congratulations to KDU Maryland (the Noisy Neighbors) on being awarded the Krio Diaspora United Southern Ontario 2014-2024 in appreciation for their continued outstanding support throughout the years!