The Liberia Plan

As part of the self-reliance plan, Garvey wanted black people in America to set up their own nation in Africa. They would rule it and develop it, and it would protect black people all over the world. Garvey developed the Liberia Plan. The UNIA negotiated with the government of Liberia for land to settle people from the USA, the Caribbean, South and Central America. The Liberian government at first agreed, but it changed its mind before the settlers arrived. The UNIA had other plans for nation building. In 1920 it held its First International Convention - conference. Delegates - representatives - came to New York from all over the world, for a month-long meeting. They discussed issues like segregation, poor schooling, lack of representation, mob violence, and lands being taken away in Africa. The Convention was like a parliament in exile - away from its own country. Delegates were like MPs representing different countries and communities. They drew up laws to govern the lives of black people. They designed a flag - in red, black and green. They made up an anthem, called The Universal Ethiopian. The First International Convention was a huge success. Seven more were held during Garvey's lifetime.