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O
ne of the pressing issues amongst Libe-
rians currently residing in the United
States is membership in the Union of
Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA).
For those who are not familiar with the organiza-
tion, ULAA serves as an umbrella group for all
Liberian organizations in the United States. The
association was formed in 1974 in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania. As stated on their web site,
ULAA's principles are to promote and encourage
national reconciliation, integration and unifica-
tion, preserve and protect Liberian culture, his-
tory and traditions; uphold and defend funda-
mental rights; cultivate and harness the energies
and resources of Liberians to improve the quality
of life for all Liberians abroad; and advocate and
advance the cause of constitutional democracy
and sustainable national development in the Re-
public of Liberia. These are indeed principles
that every Liberian should aspire to, however
ULAA has failed to maintain the trust of the com-
munity it aims to serve. Years of mismanage-
ment of funds and unscrupulous individuals has
tarnished the original aim of the association.
The pros and cons of ULAA membership must
be given thorough consideration. Our decision
should not be speculative or social, but objec-
tively concrete.
The new administration of ULAA under the lead-
ership of President Emmanuel S. Wette has
brought forward the promise of a fresh opportu-
nity for change. ULAA is currently attempting to
reach out to state and local Liberian organiza-
tions in order re-establish ties and move forward
with positive progress for the Liberian agenda.
Initial contacts between ULAA Mid-West regional
Vice President, Gaye Sleh and LAI President,
Trocon Karmo were established in early 2006,
prior to the visit of President Ellen Johnson-
Sirleaf to Chicago, Illinois. Discussions about
LAI membership in ULAA began and continued
throughout the year, with President Karmo being
invited to a ULAA program in Columbus Ohio.
Preside