Benin History & Research Centre in Diaspora

On behalf of the Organizing Committee of Edo Language Day Worldwide, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the 2025 Edo Language Day celebration. Your commitment has been vital in preserving the rich cultural heritage of Edo State.  Thank you to all our sponsors, including the University of Toronto, the media outlets that covered our event, the Edo State Ministry of Arts and Culture, Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, as well as the dignitaries from the United States and Canada, and all participants in this year's celebration.  We appreciate your continued support as we strive to promote and preserve the Edo indigenous language worldwide.  Thank you all,  Wa ru ese! Nekpen Obasogie

The Edo Cultural Heritage Commission in North America is an exemplary initiative dedicated to promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Edo people. Our mission is to strengthen cultural connections within the Edo community, both in North America and Edo State.  We are excited to announce our inaugural global event, which will take place both online and in-person in Toronto on November 21-22, 2025. This event will reveal the proposal and plans for the Edo Cultural Heritage Centre in Toronto. The centre will feature an Edo-based art gallery (museum), offer workshops for Black youth and children in Canada, celebrate the annual Edo Language Day, facilitate exchange programs between Canada and Edo State, support Black artists and sculptors, and contribute to the entertainment industry, along with a variety of other activities.

The Edo Cultural Heritage Commission in North America is an exemplary initiative dedicated to promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Edo people. Our mission is to strengthen cultural connections within the Edo community, both in North America and Edo State.  We  are excited to announce our inaugural global event, which will take place both online and in-person in Toronto on November 21-22, 2025. This event will reveal the proposal and plans for the Edo Cultural Heritage Centre in Toronto. The centre will feature an Edo-based art gallery (museum), offer workshops for Black youth and children in Canada, celebrate the annual Edo Language Day, facilitate exchange programs between Canada and Edo State, support Black artists and sculptors, and contribute to the entertainment industry, along with a variety of other activities.

 The City of Toronto's Chief Curator, Tara Chadwick (Curator at the ROM Museum), visited Queen Idia House Art Gallery in Brampton Yesterday, Sept 8th, 2025.  It was a part of our efforts to expand and partner with various museums and art institutions in the City of Toronto!  Thanks to Councillor Holyday (Etobicoke Centre) for supporting our proposed expansion of the gallery! 

I was honored to receive an award from the Council of Nigerian Professionals (CNP) on September 6, 2025, in Toronto. The event was hosted by our esteemed sister, Lady Abha. I want to give a special shout-out to all the Edo women who accompanied me to the award ceremony. The organization of the event was impeccable, creating a vibrant atmosphere for everyone to celebrate. It highlighted the importance of community and the power of inclusion, leaving a lasting impression and enriching our shared experience.  ~~~Neken Obasogie