July 4th in Gulu

The second day of the conference was July 4^th. Therefore our final dinner / party was also a July 4^th celebration. It was held at the Acholi Inn in the yard. There was a great feast and a dance party. There was line-dancing (see photo), a Michael Jackson montage, popular music from the area and lots more. When the Acoli music game over the speakers, many of our partner teachers tried to teach us Acoli dance moves. I don’t think we were completely hopeless.

One of the teachers from Layibi was SO moved by the whole event. He said that he just couldn’t believe the integration of ideas at the conference and the genuine way we were all integrating socially. After one of the Acoli songs, I thought he was going to tear up. He said he was so excited about the transformative experience ahead. I reminded him that it would be transformative for all of us. My partner teacher Odong Robert and his pal, another teacher John Christopher, had a rocking good time (photo at left). They were dancing and laughing so much.

At one point, the sparklers came out to great celebration. John Christopher kept saying “take my picture” with the sparkler, with the very tall teacher, with the cookie, with the brownie, dancing etc. At one point a man addressed the grouped. John Christopher and Odong Robert were so excited. He is the “president’s representative in Gulu district.” John Christopher of course instructed me to take his picture. Odong Robert said “If he is here, the security is good.” The politician chided us for not inviting him to the dance. Then he led a big congo line. I thought Odong Robert was going to lose his mind. Instead, he took a video of the dance with his telephone.

Some people paid the 7000 UGX (approximately $3.50) to go in the pool. All in all it was an amazing night filled with optimism and friendship.