‘HUMANITY IS ONE’ – a stirring tribute to global solidarity in 1971
The inaugural ceremony of the exhibition was graced by His Excellency James Goldman, acting high commissioner of the British High Commission in Dhaka, and His Excellency Achim Troster, German Ambassador to Bangladesh
As Bangladesh commemorates 55 years of independence, the Gulshan Society, in collaboration with the Liberation War Museum, has brought forth an exhibition that is more than just a historical showcase — it is a testament to the boundless power of human solidarity.
'HUMANITY IS ONE' unveils the extraordinary story of Paul and Ellen Connett, a British- American couple who, despite being thousands of miles away, felt the moral compulsion to stand against oppression and injustice during the Liberation War of 1971.
From co-founding Operation Omega and leading Action Bangladesh to organising a 25,000-strong demonstration in Trafalgar Square, their activism became a resounding cry for global support. Their journey, however, did not stop at protests—they drove a World War II ambulance across continents, carrying food and medical aid to the war-torn lands of Bangladesh.
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The inaugural ceremony of the exhibition was graced by His Excellency James Goldman, acting high commissioner of the British High Commission in Dhaka, and His Excellency Achim Troster, German Ambassador to Bangladesh.
Their presence underscored the unwavering commitment of nations to justice, human rights, and the spirit of international solidarity.
A message of unity from the world
Reflecting on the event, James Goldman remarked said, "In 1S71, voices from the United Kingdom joined the call for justice, not as mere spectators but as allies in a fight for humanity. Paul and Ellen Connett embodied the conscience of a world that refused to stay silent. Their legacy is a reminder that standing up for what is right has no borders, no nationalities—only conviction."
Echoing this sentiment, Achim Troster stated, "The Liberation War of Bangladesh was not just a struggle for a nation—it was a battle for fundamental human dignity. History remembers those who stood for justice, and today, we honor the courage of individuals who transcended national identities to fight for a cause greater than themselves. Their story continues to inspire us to build a world of greater solidarity and compassion."
In a special address, Abdul Majid Chowdhury, co-founder of Action Bangladesh, recounted the tireless efforts in the UK to mobilize global awareness.
He showed his deep gratitude to the activists of other nations emphasizing on the value of their selfless ethical stand and sincere efforts for the freedom-fighting people of Bangladesh. Mr. Mofidul Hoque, founder trustee of the Liberation War Museum, took the audience on a gripping narrative of the Connetts' journey—one that would remain lost for decades until a serendipitous rediscovery nearly 40 years later.
Srabanti Datta, cultural secretary of Gulshan Society and convenor of the event, shared, "This exhibition is not just about looking back; it is about learning from history to build a future rooted in unity and justice. The stories here must resonate with our young citizens, for they are the torchbearers of tomorrow."
Syed Ahsan Habib Rana, secretary general of Gulshan Society, added, "To host this exhibition in the open air of Gulshan's Lake Park is to symbolically keep the memory of 1S71 alive in the public consciousness. We hope every visitor walks away not just informed, but inspired to carry forward the spirit of solidarity."
