By Sampat JMB Kpakimah
As Liberia celebrated its 179 Independence Day the National Orator Dr. Herbert Brewer challenged Liberians, particularly the younger generation, to reject narratives of hopelessness and instead embrace the country’s history as a foundation for building a stronger future.
Delivering the official oration marking Liberia’s 179th Independence Anniversary on Monday, July 27, 2026, Dr. Brewer acknowledged growing frustrations among many young people who question the significance of celebrating the nation’s independence amid persistent socio-economic challenges.
Addressing thousands gathered for the national celebration, the orator posed a question he said many young Liberians have been asking.
“As we gather together to commemorate the 179th anniversary of our nation’s independence today, I would like to consider a question that many young Liberians have asked, sometimes quietly and sometimes aloud: What is there to celebrate?” Dr. Brewer said.
He noted that some critics argue Liberia’s history has been marked more by failures and disappointments than achievements, with others even suggesting that the country’s founding itself was a mistake.
Despite these sentiments, Dr. Brewer rejected such views, urging Liberians to reflect on the country’s resilience and the lessons embedded in its history.
“A nation that understands its history is better prepared to shape its future,” he declared, emphasizing that national progress depends on an honest understanding of the past.
The National Orator stressed that preserving Liberia’s history is a responsibility that must be led by Liberians themselves.
“Liberians themselves must take the lead in researching, preserving, and interpreting the history that defines our identity,” he said.
Dr. Brewer also cautioned against manipulating historical records for political gain, insisting that truth must remain the guiding principle in documenting the nation’s past.
“History should never be written through the lens of political convenience. It must remain an honest, evidence-based account of our national journey,” he emphasized.
Highlighting the importance of national identity, Dr. Brewer argued that the country’s greatest inheritance to future generations extends beyond physical development.
“The greatest gift we can leave future generations is not only infrastructure or stronger institutions. It is a confident nation that understands itself,” he said.
Reflecting on Liberia’s long and often turbulent history, Dr. Brewer praised the resilience of its people, noting that despite civil conflict, political instability, and economic hardships, Liberians have consistently chosen peace and democratic governance.
“Time and again, Liberians have chosen hope over despair, reconciliation over revenge, and democracy over instability,” he stated.
His remarks served as both a reflection on Liberia’s 179-year journey and a call for national unity, urging citizens to embrace their shared history as a source of strength while working collectively toward a more prosperous future.
