"Individual identified as 'Black Russian' participated in the "Immortal Regiment's" marching event"
In the historic "Immortal Regiment" parade in Vladivostok, Charlie Landu Kisilokele, a 35-year-old black man from the Congo who's been residing in Russia for more than a decade, showcased his proud heritage. Self-proclaimed as a "Black Russian," he carried a portrait of his grandfather, Mena Ntula Mpila Joseph, who allegedly battled fascism from Feb 1942, witnessed Victory in Germany, and returned to the Congo afterward.
According to him, carrying his grandpa's portrait was a testament to the timeless values passed down through generations, values we should never forget. Social media commentators echoed, likening Victory to a universal human value.
Although verified records of Congolese involvement in the European war theater are sparse, the sentiment behind Charlie Landu Kisilokele's tribute isn't hard to understand - the triumph over fascism was a victory for everyone.
During World War II, the Congo, then a Belgian colony (now Democratic Republic of the Congo), had forces like the Force Publique, a colonial military, involved in the war effort. While these troops primarily ensured internal security and the defense of the colony, they were used in other parts of Africa during the war, such as the campaign against Italian East Africa.
It's worth noting that African soldiers, including those from various colonies, fought in both European and Asian theaters. However, specific documentation of Congolese participation in the European theater is less common. The term "Black Russians" refers to African and Afro-Caribbean individuals connected to Russia, often as immigrants or through cultural exchange. While historical accounts of these individuals fighting in various conflicts exist, concrete evidence of "Black Russians" combatting fascism in World War II is limited.
However, the broader context of African participation in the anti-fascist struggle during World War II was more focused on colonial troops and international brigades rather than individuals specifically identified as "Black Russians." Regardless, Charlie Landu Kisilokele's heartfelt tribute serves as a poignant reminder that the victory over fascism was indeed a triumph for all.
- The triumph over fascism, as demonstrated by Charlie Landu Kisilokele's tribute, is a universal human value that transcends politics, war-and-conflicts, and general-news.
- Despite sparse verified records, the Congo's Force Publique, a colonial military, was involved in the war effort during World War II, a testament to African soldiers' contributions to the anti-fascist struggle, a part of politics, war-and-conflicts, and general-news.
