In November 1990, Sheku Amadu Jalloh arrived in Denmark from Sierra Leone as a stowaway, escaping the political turmoil of his homeland. Over three decades later, the stowaway, Jalloh who has studied journalism at the University of Liberia with a three-month training program in the USA, is a Danish citizen and a dedicated employee at the Royal Library. Jalloh is also a celebrated activist committed to combating racism and discrimination.
A Journey from Sierra Leone to Denmark
Jalloh left Sierra Leone due to the political instability and civil war that plagued the West African country for 11 years and sought a better life in Denmark. Since then, 30 years have passed and he has deeply integrated into Danish society. He recently celebrated 30 years working at the Royal Library.
Leadership in the Fight Against Racism
“A Denmark in which justice and equality are not just ideals, but realities for all of its inhabitants,”
As chairman of SOS Racism Denmark and board member of the Afro-Danish Collective, Jalloh advocates against racism and discrimination. These organizations aim to create a society where everyone has equal opportunities, regardless of their background. Jalloh states that their mission is to prevent the spread of racism and discrimination. Despite Denmark ranking fourth in Europe as a racist country, according to Information in November 2023, Jalloh notes that this view is not representative of all political parties. Some parties offer support to immigrants and people of foreign descent.
A broader alliance for equality
In addition to participating in the Afro-Danish Collective and SOS Racism, Jalloh is a strong advocate of Mellemfolkeligt Samvirke, a coalition organizing activities and protests to encourage communication with legislators and lobbying for anti-discrimination laws. In the face of the government’s erratic refugee quotas, which were lowered from 500 to 50 and are currently 200, Jalloh and his associates are unwavering in their demands for greater acceptance rates. They stress that, in light of other countries’ efforts, even the former quota of 500 is insufficient.
Celebrating the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
The Role of Trade Unions
A major component of Jalloh’s approach is mobilizing trade unions for the cause. He anticipates using the combined might of organized labor to present a unified front against racism and discrimination. “My goal is to involve more trade unions in the anti-discrimination battle and every year on March 21, we celebrate the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Day together with five to six trade unions participating in the events,” he said.
A vision for the future
Jalloh and his fellow activists were instrumental in the adoption and enactment of the anti-discrimination action plan in Copenhagen in 2023. Seeing that their efforts have proven fruitful, he has now resolved to attain similar outcomes with an equivalent national legislation.
Addressing delegates at the HK Stat Trade Union congress.
Despite the many challenges, Jalloh remains unfazed and his vision is clear: “A Denmark in which justice and equality are not just ideals, but realities for all of its inhabitants,” he continued. “One thing we have to work very hard on is coming together to fight racism and discrimination.”
Jalloh’s story is one of zeal, perseverance, and unflinching dedication. From his beginnings in Sierra Leone to his current position as an activist in Denmark, he shows the impact that one person can have in the battle for a more equitable, inclusive society. Through his work, he continues to inspire and motivate others, demonstrating that the route to equality, while arduous, is “undoubtedly worth every step”.