On August 2, 1920, Marcus Garvey, the prominent Jamaican political leader, orator, and activist, presented his “Back to Africa” program during the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) convention in New York City. This event marked a significant moment in the history of the African diaspora and the Black nationalist movement. The “Back to Africa” movement aimed to encourage people of African descent to return to their ancestral homeland, Africa, as a means of reclaiming their heritage, identity, and independence from the colonial and racial oppression they faced in the Americas and elsewhere.

Garvey’s program gained wide support, particularly among African Americans, and he advocated for the creation of a separate Black nation in Africa. He also emphasized economic self-reliance, pride in African heritage, and unity among all people of African descent. His vision of a unified, independent Africa and his bold leadership made him one of the most influential figures in the fight for Black empowerment during the early 20th century.