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Cultural Echoes: Film Screenings Explore Themes of Heritage, Identity, and History

By archyde.com News Team | March 20, 2025

Kingdom of Dahomey: A Reflection on restitution and Identity

The award-winning documentary kingdom of Dahomey, a standout at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival where it clinched the prestigious Gold Bear, is set to screen on March 24th at 7:30 p.m. Following the screening, Daira Āboliņa will lead a discussion with film critic Dart Ceriņa, offering a deeper dive into the film’s profound themes.

Mati Diop,celebrated for her previous work,Atlantics,directs this powerful documentary that centers around the return of 26 royal treasures to Benin from France. These artifacts, once part of the Kingdom of Dahomey, had been housed in a French museum for over a century. The film explores not just the physical return of these invaluable pieces, but also the emotional and cultural impact on a nation reconnecting with its heritage.

The concept of restitution, the act of returning cultural artifacts to their place of origin, is a growing movement worldwide. For many, like those in benin, it’s about reclaiming a narrative stolen during colonial times. Consider the elgin Marbles, for example, housed in the British Museum, which Greece has been trying to reclaim for decades.The debate surrounding these artifacts mirrors the sentiments explored in Kingdom of Dahomey.

The film challenges viewers to consider the lasting impacts of colonialism. As Diop puts it, the film reveals the story of:

26 royal treasures from the Kingdom of Dahomey (modern Benin Republic).For a century, African artwork was located at a museum in France… This is the story of the return of ancient artwork at home. Not only humans, but also art was subject to slavery.

The film’s importance extends beyond its artistic merit. It serves as a catalyst for dialog, both within Benin and internationally, regarding the ethical responsibilities of museums and nations holding artifacts acquired during periods of colonial expansion. The return of the Dahomey treasures set a precedent, potentially influencing future restitution claims.

More Like a Dance: Preserving Latvian Identity Through Movement

On March 31st at 7:30 p.m., the documentary More Like a Dance will be screened, offering a glimpse into the lives of Latvian emigrants in Canada. The film explores how thay maintain their cultural identity through customary Latvian dance. Following the screening, a discussion on folk dance movements in Latvia and abroad will feature choreographer Zanda Mūrniece and Foreign Ministry diaspora Special Task Ambassador Zanda Grauze.

Director Paul Dombrovskis captures the essence of Latvian identity through the lens of dance. He describes his approach:

I tell stories and call feelings. A real life and danced life to touch people’s hearts and inspire us to be a better version of ourselves.

This sentiment resonates deeply within the U.S., where many communities maintain strong cultural ties to their ancestral homelands. Irish dance, for example, thrives in cities like Boston and Chicago, providing a vibrant link to Irish heritage for generations of Americans. Similarly,Polish folk dance groups are common across the Midwest,showcasing the enduring power of cultural traditions to connect people to their roots.

The film underscores the importance of cultural preservation, especially in the face of globalization. As communities become increasingly diverse, maintaining unique cultural practices can foster a sense of belonging and identity.In the U.S., this is reflected in the growing popularity of heritage language programs and cultural festivals that celebrate the traditions of various immigrant groups.

My 80 Spring: Celebrating Life and Creativity in Old Age

On April 7th at 7:30 p.m., the documentary My 80 Spring, winner of the National Award “Great Kristaps” for best debut documentary, will be shown. Following the film, Daira Āboliņš will discuss the film with director and screenwriter Agnes Laizan.

The film centers around Evi Upeniece, a 97-year-old sculptor, and explores her continued passion for life and art. It challenges societal perceptions of aging, presenting a portrait of a vibrant individual embracing her later years. Laizan describes the experience of making the film:

When you are with people on your frequencies, you can do a lot. And a big thank you to the characters in my film, which allowed me to enter their final stage and look for the answer, what is age?

In the United States, where the population is aging rapidly, films like My 80 Spring offer valuable insights into the importance of continued engagement and purpose in later life. Programs that promote senior volunteerism, lifelong learning, and intergenerational connections are becoming increasingly prevalent, reflecting a growing recognition of the contributions and potential of older adults.

How are we, as a global community, going to support the ongoing efforts in preserving and understanding cultural heritages and it’s relationship to the world today?

Kingdom of Dahomey: An Interview with Professor Amina Diallo on Restitution and Cultural Heritage

By archyde.com News Team | March 20, 2025

Interview Introduction

Welcome to Archyde News. Today, we delve into the compelling themes explored in the documentary kingdom of Dahomey, a film sparking crucial conversations about cultural heritage and restitution. Joining us is Professor Amina Diallo, a leading expert in African history and the cultural impact of colonialism. Professor Diallo, welcome to the show.

Professor Diallo: Thank you for having me.It’s a pleasure.

The Importance of Restitution

Archyde: Professor, Kingdom of dahomey focuses on the return of treasures to Benin from France. Can you explain the significance of this act of restitution within the broader context of african history and identity?

Professor Diallo: Absolutely. The return of these artifacts is profoundly significant. For centuries, objects like these were taken, often during colonial expansion, effectively stripping communities of their cultural narrative. restitution is not merely about returning objects; it’s about restoring dignity, reclaiming past narratives, and acknowledging the lasting impact of colonialism. In the case of Dahomey, which, as you know, was established around 1600 with King Houegbadja building the Royal Palaces of Abomey, these artifacts are foundational to their history.

Impact of Colonialism

Archyde: The film highlights the emotional impact of the return. What are the long-term implications of this process, both culturally and socially?

Professor Diallo: The emotional impact is immense. It fosters a sense of healing and reconnection, notably within communities. Socially, it can spark a renewed interest in cultural practices and traditions. It’s a chance for a nation to re-engage deeply with their heritage and strengthen their own identity, especially considering the history of Dahomey. This also establishes a very crucial precedent for future restitution claims worldwide.

Global Implications and Moving Forward

Archyde: The Kingdom of Dahomey screening is stimulating a global conversation. What steps can we take to ensure a more ethical approach to cultural heritage in the future?

Professor Diallo: I believe that’s a very crucial question. First and foremost, we need to establish a global framework around these restitutions, in association with the ethical responsibilities of museums and nations. Collaboration between nations is essential. We must emphasize transparency in collections and provenance, and prioritize dialogue between institutions and communities from where these objects originated. Education plays a huge role, too, to raise awareness and prevent any future occurrences of this type of behavior.

Call to Action

Archyde: professor, that’s a very insightful summary. Looking to the future, what one question do you think people should be asking themselves after watching Kingdom of Dahomey?

Professor Diallo: I would encourage viewers to ask themselves: “How are we, as a global community, going to support the ongoing efforts in preserving and understanding cultural heritages and its relationship to the world today?”

Archyde: Professor Amina Diallo, thank you for your valuable insights. we appreciate your time.

Professor Diallo: Thank you for having me.