US: North Carolina declares June 14 Igbo Day

Ndigbo

The Governor of the State of North Carolina, Josh Stein, has officially proclaimed June 14, 2025, as “Igbo Day” across the state.

This, according to a proclamation on the State Government’s official website, is a result of the recognition of cultural diversity. The proclamation, titled “Igbo Day 2025”, celebrates the enduring presence, vibrant culture, and impactful contributions of the Igbo people—an ethnic group originating from Nigeria—who have made North Carolina their home for decades.

In the proclamation, Stein highlighted the long-standing history and integration of the Igbo community in the state.

“Whereas, there are thousands of Igbo people in North Carolina, some of whom have lived here for over fifty years;

“Whereas, the Igbos are committed to preserving and promoting their rich cultural heritage from Nigeria. Igbos in North Carolina are encouraged to connect, celebrate, and support one another, fostering a strong sense of unity, bonding, and belonging;

“Whereas, the Igbo community aspires to create an environment where their members thrive, traditions flourish, and their contributions to society are recognised and valued. Through their collective efforts, the Igbo community aims to inspire future generations to embrace their identity and to foster a strong sense of belonging and purpose within North Carolina”, the proclamation partly read.

The proclamation also acknowledged organised efforts to promote cultural awareness, particularly through the Igbo Day Festival Organisation, a nonprofit founded in 2022.“Whereas, in 2022, the Igbo North Carolinians established the nonprofit Igbo Day Festival Organization to unite and educate Igbo families and North Carolinians about Igbo culture, art, music, and traditional values; the first Igbo Day Festival was held on July 10, 2022;

“Whereas, their vision is to be a thriving community that not only honours and promotes the rich heritage of the Igbo people of Nigeria in North Carolina, but also serves as a beacon of unity, support, and cultural pride”, it added.