<< Previous Entry | Next Entry >> | Latest Entry >>

One of the relationships that was established during our previous journey was with a young girl, Sandra. Sandra and her family were attending their church, Souls Harvester on Sunday and we were invited to join them. Religion is a central part of village life. We have been told that likely about 75% of the village attends one of the four churches here. The religion is primarily Christianity, a result of slave trading and subsequent years of western influence.

At the start of the service, the community was divided into three groups for the lesson. We assume the division was an accommodation of the different languages, as some community members speak the local language of Ijaw and others also speak English. The hour-long lesson was followed by group prayer, song, and community announcements. Near the end of the service, the children’s choir, including Sandra, sang for the congregation. It was apparent that religion is a central part of community life.

Kendra and Sean interviewed the oldest person in the Gbaramatu clan (which encompasses Opozora and surrounding villages) in her home. Olobojo, whose name means “God’s gift” is 110 years of age. She graced us with her wisdom and presence. Kendra asked her how life in the village is different now from earlier years of her life. She shared that is it not the same. One point she highlighted was that there is no longer enough fishing for everyone as a result of the oil exploitation. When we were talking about solutions and her vision of a future she hoped for, she said, “Women who are vibrant and educated can help the men make a better future.” Kendra then talked with her eldest daughter, Grace, who is the leader of the village women. The dialogue concluded with her ideas for solutions to address the problems of poverty; she said they need training for the children, intervention from the international community and oil companies, and empowerment for the women.

We learned that the women in the village have a community center where they gather to support one another, share resources and “make life more meaningful.” We asked if we could speak with them and a meeting was organized. Sandy shared with them the purpose of the documentary and our intention to capture day-to-day life in the Delta, and asked what they thought was important to show in the film. She emphasized that last time we were here, we didn’t get to know the women as well as we wanted because of the language barrier. The Delta women are a large part of this story, so this time, we made it a priority to bring an interpreter to assist with communication. Amidst spirited dialog, Grace, the leader of the women shared that whatever will bring better development to their community, they welcome it. They all endorse the film.

Leslye shared an update on the micro-lending project (see August 10th entry). They were very pleased to learn of the developments and had some questions about how it would work. Leslye let them know that we would be in touch with them as soon as we had further news about when the project would begin. After the meeting, their gratitude was evidenced by big smiles, warm greetings and many hugs.

On our way out of the meeting, we were told the kids had prepared a dance presentation for us. Some young boys provided the rhythm with sticks and plastic jugs, while a group of about eight young boys and girls gathered in a circle for traditional dance. It was an amazing display of culture, spirit and booty shaking.

Next up was a meeting with NAGS students, who wanted to discuss our schedule and offer ideas and assistance, especially for other villages to visit. As the meeting ended, several women came by to express welcome and gratitude, offering us a traditional ceremony with kola nuts and alligator pepper. As a special gift, they “wedged” the kola nuts with cash.