Van Lathan Part 1: Nigerian Roots, Black Identity & The Diaspora Divide - One54 Africa
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Show notes
Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry.
The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division.
They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them.
Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America.
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