A prolific American writer and Professor of History have been honored by several residents of the kpaquellie clan, Zota District #4, Bong county due to his contributions and support towards the community.
Dr. Gregg Mitman was honored on Monday, May 30, 2022. According to the chiefs and elders, the gifts were given due to his services rendered to the people of the community as well as his support to some permanent sons from the district in the educational sector.
He was particularly praised for his role played in helping a son of the community in Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey-Yarkpawolo in achieving his dream, a Doctor of education and Philosophy (PhD) in the United States of America. The event saw different groups including, women, youth Chief & elders naming Dr. Gregg Baitman as the “Dia-Ga’won” in Kpelle, meaning “The Town Chief”.
In remarks, Dr. Mitman thanked the people of the clan for the honor and gift given to him. He, however, described women within the area as the backbone of the growth and development of the area. The American writer at the same time encouraged people of the area to continue working with one another for the growth and development of the District.
“I am deeply grateful for the sign of appreciation and I know that my wife in America upon seeing this gift will be very happy about it. One thing I have come to deeply admire during my many visits here is how incredible and strong the women is here, you are the backbone of the village, Dr. Mitman discloses.
“It also makes me very happy to see your son Dr. Emmanuel Urey-Yarkpawolo’s declaration of his intention to run for your district representative. Your son is my son as well and when he came to America more than ten years ago he never forgets about his hometown and this country, Liberia and he always discusses his dreams and hopes for helping the communities within this district”.
He has received the highest education degree that one can receive in America, a Ph.D., from one of the top universities in America. Dr. Urey-Yarkpawolo is a man of integrity, with a great vision and commitment, so as your town chief did, I stand with your son in whatever way he goes, he promised Dr. Yarkpawolo.
The event took place on Monday, May 30, 2022, in Gomue village, the birthplace of Bong County politician and a 2023 representative aspirant, Dr. Emmanuel Urey-Yarkpawolo.
Dr. Mitman is known for his teaching and research interests span environmental history, the history of science, medical history, and the visual culture of science and medicine, with a focus on the United States and the world. In particular, he seeks to understand how political economy, cultural values and beliefs, and scientific knowledge intersect in shaping the interactions between people and environments over time.
Over the past few years, he has been at work on a multimedia project a film, book, and public history website—exploring the history and legacy of the Firestone Plantations Company in Liberia. He recently launched his book titled; “Empire of Rubber: Firestone’s Scramble for Land and Power in Liberia”.
Reported by: Timothy R. Yoko,
