I think this post really gets to the heart of the matter about quality of life and how it is defined for Africans. We have everything we need on the Continent to get it together, except the nerve to take it back. Let's all start thinking about implementing the plan and make AFRICANS out of all the AFRICANTS. I think of the unity that Asian cultures exhibit in the simple act of purchasing an Asian vehicle when they drive. It is rare to see an Asian not driving an Asian vehicle. The Japanese and the Korean may hate each other and have a history of hostility, but the Korean understands that purchasing the Japanese vehicle and being somewhat loyal to building up and Asian economy has made it possible for there to be Kia and Hyundai factories. My point is that, we as Africans may not all like each other from a cultural stand point, (religious, skin tone, class, etc) but once we start to practice our culture first and respect each other, no one will be able to touch us. Any way, I think we need to spend our money in our communities where ever we are. Also, I have not heard much mentioned in this post about the phenomena of black men often splitting on black women and families. I know it is not a popular topic, but I think the problems in the family structure in general has made it difficult for Africans in the West to work as a group. I know that the history of slavery has much to do with this, but now we know why we act the way we do, it is time to do something positive and constructive about it. Going to white, Latin and Asian partners is not the solution to our woes. We have a lot of residual hostility and anger to overcome towards each other before we can really move forward as a people. I am not saying that this does not naturally happen because people can be attracted to each other despite different colors, but I think that Africans are pathologically self hating in the West. What I am saying is that I am saddened by the rates of interracial mixing amongst Africans and the lack of parenting fathers in the black home. I think the prevalence of this sends a destructive message to black children that they are unworthy of their parents and a message to black women that they are sub-standard women.
So quality over quantity in life here and abroad, more cultural and economic unity based on the notion that it will pay off for you (African) one day, and finally, are black women and families really so horrible? With that, I will now get off my soapbox and start my Kwanzaa season. Happy Kwanzaa Everybody.
