Monrovia – Delivering the keynote address at Liberia’s 2024 Independence Day celebration, Rev. Emmett Dunn sent a clear message to the nation: the responsibility of building a better Liberia does not rest on one man alone—it’s a collective duty that demands action from every corner of society.
Speaking before officials from all three branches of government at the Centennial Pavilion, Rev. Dunn emphasized that the fight against corruption must go beyond the President. “The Speaker, the President Pro Tempore, and the Chief Justice must all own this fight—it cannot be left to the Executive alone,” he stated.
A Liberian diplomat and leader within the African YMCA, Rev. Dunn used his national platform to highlight the voices of everyday citizens—especially the youth. He pointed out that if leaders listen carefully, they’ll hear young people singing of corruption, unemployment, and inequality. These, he said, are not just complaints, but urgent calls for change.
Dunn challenged the idea that policy alone can drive reform. He argued that dismantling corruption and rebuilding public trust will require courage and political will—from the top of government to grassroots communities.
He directly called on lawmakers, judges, and public officials to step beyond talk and embody integrity in action. “Real change demands more than speeches—it takes sacrifice, responsibility, and commitment,” he said.
Touching on Liberia’s social wounds, Rev. Dunn spoke openly about the divisions that still affect the country—tribalism, exclusion, injustice, and gender-based violence. He proposed the creation of a National Reconciliation Commission to lead truth-telling and civic healing across communities.
He cautioned that ignoring past pain in the name of “moving forward” will only delay true unity.
One of the most applauded moments came when Rev. Dunn boldly declared, “The war is over!” urging Liberians to stop using the civil conflict as a justification for poor leadership or stagnation.
“We can no longer use survival as a strategy,” he said. “It’s time to build, innovate, and transform.”
Despite addressing serious challenges, Rev. Dunn ended on a hopeful note. He encouraged young people to become job creators, not just job seekers; leaders to lead through service, not just power; and communities to choose unity over division.
“The future is not handed to us—it’s built by us,” he said. “Nation-building belongs to all of us—not just the President or a political party. Liberia’s future is our shared responsibility.”
