1963 – Organization of African Unity Founded

On May 22, 1963, African leaders convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to establish the Organization of African Unity (OAU), marking a pivotal moment in Pan-African solidarity. The OAU’s formation represented a unified front against colonialism and neocolonial influence, bringing together 32 independent African nations under a shared vision for liberation and cooperation. With Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie playing a central role, the OAU sought to defend sovereignty, accelerate decolonization, and foster economic development across the continent. While it evolved into the African Union in 2002, the OAU laid the foundation for collective diplomacy in post-colonial Africa. May 22 stands as a symbol of African self-determination and political cohesion. This historic milestone also underscores the critical role of diplomacy in achieving liberation, making it a cornerstone of Black international history and a key date for Afrocentric educators and activists worldwide. Remember May 22 as the day Africa declared unity against global domination.