de OB, LLC

Activism

Justice and fairness are central principles guiding Obiang’s personal and professional life. Inspired by the leadership and legacy of Patrice Lumumba, Thomas Sankara, and Nelson Mandela, she firmly believes that silence or passivity in the face of violence, discrimination, and injustice is not an option. Obiang holds that each individual bears a shared responsibility to contribute to the creation of stronger communities and a more just and equitable world.

Gabonese Diaspora for Democracy and Human Rights (GDDHR)

The 2016 presidential election in Gabon prompted increased diaspora activism for democracy, leading to the emergence of organizations such as the Gabon Diaspora for Democracy and Human Rights GDDHR (DC corporation# N00005647182). Naïde Obiang was among the founding members of GDDHR, a U.S.-based advocacy organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., dedicated to promoting democratic reforms, human rights, and good governance. Its members led efforts to highlight human rights abuses and governance challenges in Gabon. GDDHR was formed part of a broader Gabonese diaspora movement focused on political change, development, and the protection of human rights, engaging with U.S. policymakers, human rights organizations, and media outlets to advocate for democratic change in Gabon.

Black Lives Matter

Though an immigrant, Naïde Obiang could not remain passif and silent during the worldwide movement protesting police brutality and systemic racism in 2020, herself victim of racial profiling in 2018. She joined the Black Lives Matter street protests to denounce racial profiling and police violence, and to advocate for a just, fair, and peaceful society for all citizens and residents.

The Women’s March

The 2017 Women’s March in Washington, D.C. marked another significant moment in Obiang’s activist engagement. It served as a powerful reminder that failing to stand for what we believe is right allows marginalization to persist. The march was a proud opportunity to advocate for women’s rights and immigrant rights, and to support a vision of a world where people come together across differences, respect diversity, and commit to making the world a better place for all.

2016 Presidential Election

The 2016 U.S. presidential election was an especially significant and energizing moment for many women in America. Following the Obama era, women such as Obiang were eager to see the possibility of a woman leading the U.S. government—particularly a candidate of historic stature like Hillary Clinton. Regardless of differing views on her policies or approach, Ms. Clinton remains a pivotal figure and an inspiration for many engaged in politics, foreign relations, and peace and conflict studies. During the campaign, Obiang volunteered for the Hillary Clinton campaign in Montgomery County, Maryland, an empowering experience that marked a meaningful chapter in her civic and political engagement.

Civic Engagement

Despite living abroad, Obiang remains committed to her civic responsibilities and stays actively engaged in contributing to the greater good. Nation-building is a collective effort. It requires citizens who remain connected to their homeland and guided by shared values and ancestral heritage in order to grow and evolve.