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History of Benin Club of Massachusetts
Prior to June 1986, there was no organized Benin, Edo, or Nigerian organization(s) in the State of Massachusetts. However, occasionally many of us felt the need for a forum under which we can better organize or rally ourselves in times of emergency.
Although efforts were made from 1980 to organize, many in the Edo or Nigerian community did not see the need, as all efforts seem to be focused on returning to Nigeria, as soon as their academic goal was achieved. By 1983, the status quo began to change. All was not well with the homeland; the first hints that we should be rethinking our strategy of creating an alternative community for ourselves began to take root. Amidst all the economic considerations was the fact that Nigerians continued to excel in their various endeavors. In any given graduation ceremony, Nigerians became or rather continued to be the center focus. Education was why many of our people came to the USA and not for economic consideration; therefore, it was not surprising to see the emphasis on education. It is also true to say of this period that Nigerians were also falling victims to random violence, which was costing us partly because we were the most disorganized community in Massachusetts. It was easy for the powers that be, to over look our plight, because we were not advocating for ourselves. We only came together when one of us is killed, to raise fund for burial, or attend individually organized graduation parties.
In May of 1986, it was widely advertised that one Osemwengie Ebohon was coming to Harvard University to perform. This became a rallying point for all Edo speaking people in Massachusetts to render moral support for that event. Soon after the event and at the urging of Mr. Ebohon, a meeting was scheduled for June 1986, at the Community Hall of Cochituate Homes in Framingham, Massachusetts by Alhaji Muhammed Osaruyi Ighile.
It was at this meeting or gathering that Mr. Tony Ogbevoen moved the motion to form what became Benin Club of Massachusetts. It is important to state that its original name was Bini Club of Massachusetts, but after the Oba of Benin was notified of its existence, the palace advised that “Bini” was too limiting in scope that “Benin” be substituted to make it all embracing of all Edo people.
In the course of existence, the Club has promoted cultural events like the Igodomigodo cultural tour of the USA 1990/91, organized Nigerian independence celebration in 1986, 1987, and 1989. It continues to promote and support community solidarity of the homeland through its membership of the Edo National Association as a founding member.
In 1989/90, the Benin Club of Massachusetts received citations from the Massachusetts State Senate as well as the Massachusetts House of Representative for promoting community development, cultural awareness, and sponsorship of summer events.
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