Bekeh Ukelina | Culture & Conflict Resolution among the Bette
President's FORUM. is a series of monthly discussions on timely topics in conflict resolution. All President's FORUM. events are free for ACR-GNY members. Join now!
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This conversation will explore the cultural heritage practices of the Bette people of Nigeria that have historically helped maintain peace and resolve conflicts within their communities. The Bette, an acephalous society, rely on consensus-building through cultural practices to promote social solidarity, manage disputes, and foster harmony both internally and with neighboring communities. Their practices demonstrate how cultural heritage can be effectively leveraged for conflict resolution and peace-building in indigenous communities while highlighting the importance of preserving and adapting these traditions for contemporary challenges.
The discussion will be moderated by ACR-GNY President Nick Pozek.
Professor Bekeh Utietiang Ukelina is a passionate scholar, educator, and historian specializing in African history, colonialism, post-colonialism, sustainable development, indigenous knowledge systems, and historical memory. His academic journey, culminating in a Doctorate in History from West Virginia University and a Master's in Religion and Culture from the Catholic University of America, has fueled his commitment to understanding and addressing the complexities of Africa's past and present.
Currently a tenured Professor of History and Director of the Center for Gender and Intercultural Studies at the State University of New York, Cortland, Professor Ukelina's influence extends beyond the classroom. He leads the Netzero Sustainable Housing Demonstration Center, a non-profit initiative pioneering sustainable housing solutions in Nigeria and across Africa. This project reflects his deep commitment to addressing climate change through innovative, indigenous approaches, embodying his belief in the power of integrating architectural design, economic viability, and climate resilience.
Professor Ukelina's expertise is sought internationally, and he has traveled to more than fifty countries. As an expert member of the International Scientific Committee on the Interpretation and Presentation of Cultural Heritage Sites and a former ICOMOS World Heritage Panel member, he advocates for inclusivity and challenges Eurocentric perspectives in global heritage conservation. His extensive publications delve into topics ranging from colonial resistance and decolonization politics to the role of heritage in post-conflict peacebuilding and reconciliation.
Driven by a profound dedication to bridging the past with the present to inspire sustainable futures, Professor Ukelina's impact resonates across diverse fields, including history, heritage, architecture, and sustainable development. His work leaves a lasting legacy, both within academia and in practical initiatives designed to tackle global challenges.
Date: Friday, February 21, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:00pm (Eastern Time)
Cost: ACR-GNY Members attend for free; Non-members attend for $20 (scholarships available)
Location: Virtual via ZOOM
Pre-registration is required.
Contact us with questions at questions@acrgny.org.
This program is supported by ACR-GNY's 365 Sponsors:
