Jude Ezeilo

Profile ​

From very early on, Jude Ezeilo has explored a different aspect of his lived experiences relating to who he is and how he fits in.

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Years after coming to terms in his first book, Welcome Home, pivotal events during the 2020 Pandemic resulted in a deep sense of wondering, questioning and exploration into his background, upbringing and family legacy.

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He has always been aware of the differences in cultures from within his home, to his outside environment, and how they at times conflicted. Personal and honest reflections are continuously sought and made regarding how he is defined, and more importantly how he ultimately defines himself.

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The Blending of Cultures and Traditions

Born and raised in Nigeria, Jude Ezeilo's parents fled their home country due to events driven by the Biafran War in 1970. After journeying to Gabon, Angola, and other nations, they legally arrived at JFK in New York City in 1972 and were granted political asylum.

After centuries of ancestral lineage in their native country, this new home presented many challenges and obstacles, as expected.

Just imagine, being both Black and foreign, with thick accents, and an "unusual" last name, back in the early 70's, in NY, Virginia, and Vermont. Yes, just imagine that.

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The bravery and courage of these two selfless people were boundless. Their own struggles to fit in and belong were ever present. And yet they persevered, protected, and progressed - proudly, while keeping true to the customs and traditions of their native land.

They overcame and forged a brave new world, instilling a deep sense of self to be explored individually by their young family.

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