Honoring mothers in Ghana

Foundation Beyond Belief would like to wish all mothers a Happy Mother's Day, and today we'd like to take a moment to focus on moms in Ghana. Officially, Mother's Day is recognized as a national holiday in Ghana, just as it is in the United States. Our Humanist Action: Ghana team members in the Northern region, however, couldn't recall noticing any local expressions of celebration when we asked them how the day was celebrated there. They all noted, though, that Ghanaian mothers are incredibly strong, resourceful, and resilient. They are the backbone of the community. Research has shown us time and time again that when women do well, the whole society benefits. That's one of the reasons our HA: Ghana team focuses on empowering women in Northern Ghana. In honor of mothers in Ghana, we'd like to re-share this story from HA: Ghana volunteer, Warren Tidwell. Here he recounts an interaction with one of the women of Kukuo, a camp for accused witches who have been exiled from their villages.

"Yesterday I was caught off guard in an interview.

These women are stronger than most people I know. They are so matter of fact about their circumstances that it often lulls you into a false sense of the matter – that is to say you become the tiniest bit numb to their plight. In doing this work and immersing myself into the data collection I've had to do like anyone else and find a balance. You can't wallow in their misery or become numb to it either. Neither is beneficial to progress with our work here in helping the women of the camps.

As I was writing about the needs of 50-year-old Pooni Dajoha, she told us in her quiet, measured voice that her biggest need is the associated school expenses for her son. Most say food or clothing but this was the only thing she wanted. Her son is 19 and had to leave the high school. As I was writing, I realized Ms. Dajoha was crying. She became quite emotional as she described her hopes and dreams for her child. In Ghana this is only possible by completing an education. School is beginning soon, and she faces the prospect of seeing him watch another year go by without returning. We haven't seen any crying in our entire time in Kukuo, and it hit me like a ton of bricks.

I'm a father. I want a better life for my son. As parents we all do. My heart broke for her because I completely identified with her pain.

There are moments like this interspersed in the laughs and serious conversation that are so touching. I wanted to hug her and tell her everything is going to be ok. I don't know that, but I am going to do what I can to help her.

Some people think it's strange that a 37-year-old man with a family is working as a volunteer in Western Africa for a year. Most do this as a part of their job as an NGO or at a younger or older age. I'm glad I'm here now. A younger me wouldn't have been able to handle what I've seen, and an older me may not even be here. In dreaming of a better life for my son, I want to be an example to him that anything is possible and we should live good, meaningful lives. Ms. Dajoha and I are alike in many, many ways."

Click here to donate now to help our HA: Ghana team continue their important work in Northern Ghana.