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Gondobay Manga Foundation, isaiah washington
Gondobay Manga Foundation, isaiah washington

Isaiah Washington's DNA Test That Changed His Life

LA Times   |  Elizabeth Snead   |   January 12, 2008 09:57 AM

Read More: Gondobay Manga Foundation, Isaiah Washington, Breaking Entertainment News
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I've seen a lot of cheesy stuff given to celebrities at pre-awards swag suites over the years. But the coolest thing I saw at the GBK Productions Golden Globes Suite this week is an African Ancestry DNA test that can trace maternal and paternal lineage.

A testament to the life-altering impact of the DNA test, former "Grey's Anatomy" star Isaiah Washington was there to talk about his experience. Basically, it changed his life. "It's very important for us to finally be able to trace our roots," he said. "Until recently, it hasn't been possible."

Actorisai_leste_14936016_600After the actor swabbed his cheek and sent it to the folks at the African Ancestry DNA test, he discovered that he was a direct descendant of the Mende people of Sierra Leone.

When he visited the Mende tribe, they gave him the ancient name "Chief Gondobay Manga." Inspired, Washington started and funded the Gondobay Manga Foundation.

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- SOOKOOYAH GURL I'm a Fan of SOOKOOYAH GURL permalink

How is he an extreme homophobe?

Did he say he hated gays?

Seriously, get over yourselves. If Imus could get his career back so can Isaiah..

BTW, Isaiah has been doing this way before GREYS ANATOMY!!

    Favorite    Flag as abusive Posted 03:38 PM on 01/14/2008
- independentrepublicrat I'm a Fan of independentrepublicrat permalink

Isaiah is a fine actor and a fine man. Best of luck to him!

    Favorite    Flag as abusive Posted 02:14 PM on 01/14/2008
- mamacat I'm a Fan of mamacat permalink

Regarding his philanthropic work, it sounds like plain good common sense to ask the people concerned what they think needs to be done. Isn't it about time that principle is extended beyond Sierra Leone?

Wouldn't it be wonderful if the folks in Washington D.C. asked the people in Iraq and Afghanistan what they want? (Apologies for repeating myself.......) According to articles printed in the NYT in May of 2007, the Iraqi legislature overwhelmingly asked the U.S. to cooperate with them in setting up a timetable for the U.S. and its coalition of the (un)willing to remove their troops from that country in an orderly fashion. Wouldn't it be fantastic if our politicians actually listened to the Iraqis, and worked with them in doing what the majority of Americans have already voted for, stopping the occupation? I wonder if the Decider listens to requests from those he has decided to democratise, or if he just does what God tells him to do.

    Favorite    Flag as abusive Posted 05:34 AM on 01/13/2008
- ReelBusy I'm a Fan of ReelBusy permalink
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Sounds like his PR people are starting their job to bring his career back....this should be good....

    Favorite    Flag as abusive Posted 07:09 PM on 01/12/2008
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