Worcester has the highest concentration of Ghanaians in the United States, which helps new arrivals quickly adjust to life in America, immigrants from the West African country said this week. They were made even more welcome at Worcester City Hall on the 60th anniversary of Ghana’s independence day – March 6, 1957 – with a ceremony in which members of the community raised the country’s flag and spoke about Ghanaian values.
“We’ve shown leadership in the City of Worcester – you don’t see Ghanaians in jail,” Harry Danso said.
City leaders were appreciative of the contributions Ghanaians have made to Worcester. Natives of Ghana are the largest single group of immigrants in the city.
“This is your city,” At-large City Councilor Khrystian King, on behalf of Mayor Joe Petty, told the assembled group. He was joined by District 5 Councilor Gary Rosen. “You should not be going around in fear.”
Ghana was one of the first African nations to gain independence from a colonial power, which gives it a special place in African history, King said.
“Ghana’s independence was significant not only for Ghana, but for the collective African spirit,” King said.
Ken Asafo-Adjei, the chairperson of the African Council of Massachusetts, estimated there are around 40,000 Ghanaians in central Massachusetts. He said the population is drawn to Worcester and surrounding towns because they value education and peacefulness.
“Ghanaians are looking for a place to educate your children, raise your children, and find a place to live, find a job,” Asafo-Adjei said.
Asafo-Adjei, who is Ghanaian himself, said the city has always made him and other members of the community feel welcome – from city leadership on down.
“Authorities in Worcester have always given us hope,” Asafo-Adjei said. “And we are contributing to the community.”
Further celebration is planned on March 11, when members of the community will gather at SDA Church on Vernon Street.
Attendees stood for the American and Ghanaian national anthems/Elizabeth Brooks photo
Attendees stood for the American and Ghanaian national anthems/Elizabeth Brooks photo
Source: Worcester magazine
