Nigerian Performer: WizKid

I think some of the younger blog fans might like this rising Nigerian in the African music scene, WizKid (maybe some of the older people, too).

Flavor Flav Brings Fried Chicken to Iowa

Even thought I am certain there are KFCs located in various parts of Iowa, the 50-year-old personality Flavor Flav (William Drayton, Jr.) probably wants to bring real fried chicken to the region.

Of course, when a character like Flavor Flav decides to open up something as stereotypical as fried chicken restaurant in a state that is 96 percent white, the issue of race is not too far behind it.

I don't know what Flavor Flav's intentions are in Iowa, but I am sure this was nothing more than another way to make money and to make sure his name is still in entertainment news. He is not trying to "blacken" white folk, as some people on Twitter mentioned. To even make that assumption is again perpetuating the stereotype that "African-Americans love fried chicken."

To debunk this old and silly stereotype, I have several African-Americans friends who have never had fried chicken, don't like it, and/or are vegetarian, just like in any other racial group. Also, fried chicken is a part of American cuisine (as well as with many other cultures across the world).

All because a celebrity who happens to be African-American and has an uncanny love for fried chicken and decides to open an establishment to a predominantly European-American state does not mean he did a bad market study since they lack in African-Americans. Maybe Clinton, Iowa doesn't have any restaurant that serves fried chicken and people have been craving it for while (duh).

Tunisian Troubles Could Become American Troubles

Currently, after Tunisians, angry with the their government for various reasons, protested and caused their former president Ben Ali to flee the country a few days ago, the north African nation now waits for a new government. Elections will be held within the next 60 days and hopefully peace and prosperity will be shortly after.

However, according to CNN International, this situation is not so black and white, and some nations in the same cultural region are going through similar problems that caused the uproar in Tunisia (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, to name a few) and could lead to a rise in oil prices and hinder any anti-terrorism efforts in the region.

People (especially Americans) are always asking why should I care about what is going on halfway around the world? As I said when talking about the drama that has (and still is) going on in Ivory Coast not too long ago, it can affect the things we take for granted. As Americans, many of us are materialistic (even though I think the downturn of the economy has more people becoming a bit more frugal) and like nice things, but we don't understand that these nice things, and the parts that make them, are not all made in the US.

Also, we want to at least feel safe. Our world is increasing becoming smaller (I know people from now every major continent). Terrorists and thieves are global masterminds. This video gave us the threatening possibilities that could occur if the outcome of this election is bad. It even shows the possibility of this election not happening, since the military is currently (temporarily) in control (and those who have been reading my blog know very well the dire consequences of a military regime).

Finally, one more thing to consider is how our world is increasingly becoming smaller (I know people from now every major continent). Our economy is global. Resources come from everywhere to create the things we want and need. As our country slows in economic and population growth, others are experiencing economic and baby booms. We need to have a global mindset in order to have appropriate discourse. Just like many Americans tell foreigners to act "American," many of them want you to act like a Nigerian when you visit Nigeria or a Batswana when in Botswana.

Bridging the Gap: Intra-cultural Miscommunication Between Africans and African-Americans

NOTE: The following is about an intra-cultural discourse that has been going on for decades. Please do not hesitate to add to the discourse by commenting. Also, I would like to note that this does not discuss the disdain from Africans to African-Americans. Please share your experiences.

“You know what? I don’t really like Africans.” That was what my teacher said the very first day of class. Considering that my parents are Nigerian, I was rather offended, especially since my teacher is an African-American male from an educated background.

However, hearing something like this from African-Americans was not new for me. Yes, it was unexpected since it was from an educated man who is an educator, but I have heard this from African-Americans of varied backgrounds, regardless of the level of education. Personally, when I reveal that I am ethnically Nigerian to anyone who is not African-American, sometimes there is a sense of curiosity in the questioning about the Africa as a continent and Nigeria as a country. Contrarily, with some African-Americans, sadly there seems to be this sense of prejudice toward and resentment of Africans (directly or indirectly towards me), rooted in ignorance. I have been discriminated against because of my ethnicity by people of every racial/ethnic group, but nowhere close to the discrimination by African-Americans.

Having this first-hand knowledge and experience, several questions have come to mind. Where did this resentment of Africans from African-Americans come from? Why does it exist, especially since Africans and African-Americans are anthropologically identical? How can this resentment be eradicated? What steps can be taken to begin cultural relativity between Africans and African-Americans? The disdain of Africa and African cultures is rooted in the myths of Africa portrayed in American media, especially during slavery, to cause African-Americans to disassociate themselves from the continent and have European-Americans maintain systematic social control over slaves and (in the past and presently) freed African-Americans. American media usually does the following when referring to Africa: disseminate propaganda, lack diverse imagery, misinform and omit information.

Notorious for disseminating propaganda (and ever still permeates many facets of current media) would be blackface minstrelsy. Blackface began around the 1830s. The minstrel show would usually be advertised as a glimpse or a “peep” into plantation life, claiming to show the true nature of black slaves and were traveling shows, so they would have shows anywhere in the country. What is not discussed in the discourse of blackface too often is how it portrayed Africans. The 1938 Warner Brothers cartoon “Jungle Jitters” showed “Africans” in typical blackface representation as cannibals. Even though cannibalism has occurred in parts of Africa (as it has in every inhabited continent on the planet), it is not a cultural norm in most African cultures, as it is projected in the cartoon. Images like the cartoon contribute to the ignorance of many African-Americans of Africa and, since blackface was an institution, helps reinforce the myth that Africans brought to the United States were saved from savagery, as stated in one of the documentaries we watched in class. A commentary from the Grio even quotes Washington Post correspondent Keith Richburg (an African-American) saying: “Thank God my ancestors got out, because now, I am not one of them. In short, thank God I am an American."

Lola Adesioye, respected social commentator and writer for several print and online publications such as the Guardian, wrote a commentary for the Grio in regard to the rift between Africans and African-Americans. One point in her commentary was that the misperceptions of Africans by African-Americans is mostly shaped by Western discourse, “which often presents a skewed picture of Africans as a primitive people stuck in the grip of tribal conflict, HIV, poverty, famine, civil war and corruption.” I found examples of these several media productions, including the applauded 1988 film Coming to America. Even though Coming to America is a comedy, like blackface minstrelsy, it makes the audience relatively comfortable with false imagery. One may argue that because Zamunda is a fictitious country in Africa, it doesn’t harm the image of an entire continent. But when limited information of Africa is distributed via news media, similarly to that of blackface minstrelsy, these false images shape in one’s mind the “reality.” While deconstructing the opening to Coming to America, one may notice the vast jungle (most of Africa is grassland or desert) void of any human life, and then the palace in the distance. As we approach the palace, wild animals are frolicking about the entrance (wild animals are never that close to any developed area, unless confined to a zoo or reserve).

The lack of diverse imagery (especially in news media) perpetuates broad generalizations of Africa. Earlier I mentioned Washington Post correspondent Keith Richburg. Professor Funwi F. Ayuninjam, formerly a professor at Kentucky State University and now at University of Nizwa in Oman, illustrated in his journal entry Intercultural Miscommunication: Perceptions and Misperceptions Between Africans and African Americans, various moments in which Richburg has an agenda to “vigorously expose Africa’s dirty linen,” Even though Prof. Ayuninjam agrees this exposure is sound, he also stated how Richburg should equally show the “remote causes of the economic dislocation and social morass.” The professor goes on the show that Richburg does not tell how many of the corrupt governments in Africa are supported by the foreign policies of the United States, in which is “largely dictated by its strategic national interest.” Richburg is a part of perpetuating only one image of Africa (primarily negative), without considering the causes and neglecting positive things happening in a continent rich in resources and culture.

The ignorant comment of my teacher deeply offended me, but ironically prompted me to construct this paper. My hope it that one day, the bridge between Africans and African-Americans can be easily crossed and differences can be embraced and similarities can be understood. In order for this to happen, both sides would need to become culturally relative and think as the other as an individual who happens to be a part of a group, not the other way around. They also need to realize the root of the problem. Blackface was used to not justify the mistreatment of African-Americans, but also to show African-Americans the “barbarism” they were “saved” from in Africa. Omitting information and misinformation leads to ignorance, which is why there is a rift in the first place. Becoming media literate helps to understand all of this; not taking news media at face value garners more knowledge.

Tunisian Troubles

Since December, there has been violent protests geared by the young and well-educated of Tunisia. This North African nation is currently in a hot mess, since the amount of college graduates is growing at a rate out-pacing the slowing economy.

The violence has reportedly claimed the lives of 23 people, but according to BBC.com, opposition activists say the number is at 50.

This situation is rather frightening, but brings up some interesting thoughts about democracy and eerily reminds me of Sarah Palin's "Blood Libel" video. Even though many of the things she said seemed to have lacked any regard or thought (most notably calling the words of those who disagree with her "Blood Libel"), she did mention the right of free speech does not mean violence. If I were in Tunisia right now, and a recent college graduate looking for a job, I would be very upset with the combo of high prices and the lack of jobs and want to know what the hell is going on, but I would also not vandalize or harm a fellow citizen. There are more peaceful but forceful (and legal) ways to get your point out. And like with most laws, there are loopholes.

I am all about getting people angry to the point that they want to be active in making our country the best it can be. However, people need to channel that anger into passionate and tactful discourse to bring better awareness and education. Violence usually just causes more violence and rarely solves anything. For a well educated group of young people, for them not to realize this is ridiculous.

Chinatown Discussion: The Importance of Studying Abroad

A few days ago, I spent some time with a good friend of mine, Jen, in one of our favorite spots in Chicago's Chinatown. As we sipped on our tea, one of the things we discussed was how few African-American students study abroad. Today, I stumbled on some stats collected by Prof. Funwi F. Ayuninjam of University of Nizwa in Oman, who used to teach at the HBCU Kentucky State University (KSU) and several other universities in the United States.

At KSU, less than 1% of the students have study abroad. In fact, Prof. Ayuninjam could count the students on his fingers; each academic year he surveyed had three students or less that went abroad.

Overall, in the United States, African-American college students make less than 4% of all who study abroad (83% of college students that study abroad are white/Caucasian).

These dismal numbers are a reflection of one common reason - finances. Many African-American students, from what Jen and I have noticed and from what Prof. Ayuninjam has noted, find studying abroad to be expensive. What is interesting is that there are many ways to lower and even eliminate costs to study abroad.

The easiest way to study abroad is through an exchange program. Exchange programs usually have you swap places with a student at a school in another country and you pay tuition as if you are attending your home institution. However, that could be different based on your school and the agreement that have with the school you would like to study abroad at. It's usually best to speak to the person at the study abroad/international programs office at your school for details.

Outside of an exchange program, there are direct enrollment programs and those offered during D-Term of J-Session. Again, the place to start is the study abroad/international programs office.

Overall, finances is not a big a deal as one would think. It takes careful planning and speaking with the right people and finding scholarships. The Gillman Scholarship is one of the easiest to obtain and the most popular (however, there is no guarantee that you will get it).

The main reason why I am pushing studying abroad is because I have noticed (and so has Jen), that when you go outside your comfort zone, your learning is enriched beyond what your school can teach you. To become culturally relative and to become successful and marketable in this increasingly global society, one must leave their home country for a period of time, short or long, to understand that their way of life is not the only way.

Throughout my life, I have been to Nigeria, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands (briefly) and Brazil. Now I am planning to go to South Korea. To go each of these countries, I paid only for food and souvenirs (in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, I paid nothing the whole time). Each of these countries are distinctly different and have their own unique vibe. I learned that race relations vary from country to country and how each country view Americans. If I did not have these experiences, I don't think I would be able to grasp an understanding of the diversity within every group across our planet. I am usually able to receive each individual as an individual and initially disassociate them from their culture, but yet still considering their cultural background. On top of that, my friends are diverse and are from across the globe.

I think the main thing that has caused me to go abroad and want to travel is curiosity. Once I have learned my surroundings, I want to learn someone else's. I want to see how does someone else eat, drink, speak, love, form friendships, etc.

My question for you is, what makes you want to study/go abroad (or not study/go abroad)? Why? Then ask yourself, how do you want to be successful in life and how would studying/going abroad enhance what you want to do?

A Split Sudan?

Currently, people in Southern Sudan are headed to the polls - but not to vote for a new president. This vote is for a referendum for Southern Sudan to become the world's newest nation. If passed, the possibility of peace and stability in this region could be achieved.

The video from CNN International tells an aspect of the story, but all must understand this situation are far more complicated and is rooted in long history of distress. This article at BBC News goes into further detail of the situation.

Even though I am rather happy that this could lead to peace, there will be many problems that would need some kind of safety or possible solution in place. Also, there's the even bigger problem of the sustainability of the economy in Southern Sudan. Northern Sudan is more economically solid than the south. Plus, there is the border dispute in regard to oil reserves. If that is not resolved, that could lead to bigger problems after the secession.

Also, the current government of Sudan doesn't necessarily agree with the secession of the south, but said they will agree with the outcome of the vote. Is it possible that they could renege on their promise? I would hope not.

I guess many of the possibilities can be safely placed on the back burner until the outcome of the vote is determined. Sudan is a country with a great potential. I hope a secession of the south brings it to its full potential.

Would You Like More Hot Cocoa?

I know I haven't blogged about this yet, but in the Ivory Coast, the world's top cocoa producer (nearly half of the world's chocolate come from there), has been experiencing political unrest due to a recent election (it looks like the situation will soon be resolved).

In the past, I believe I have stated to people the importance of having a more global world view instead of just listening to what is going on your country. Our world is increasingly becoming smaller, and it is imperative for each of to become more worldly before it is too late. Who would have thought that this political hot mess over in Ivory Coast could affect how much you spend on that Snickers bar next time you're at the grocery store waiting in checkout as some person in front of you blabs on their phone about who slept with who last night on some random prime time reality TV show? Well, according to this video on CNN International, it could happen sooner than we think.

Despite the more serious unrest it could cause, because as many of us have seen time and time again, many problems in Africa are more complicated then sometimes could even be fathomed, it will directly affect chocolate lovers in the United States and in many other parts of the world where this tasty concoction is loved. This is just another example of how connected our world is today. The next time you're having a cup of hot cocoa with a friend and they say: "Why should I care about something going on half way around the world?," ask them if they would like to have that hot cocoa again.

New Year, New You, New Mindset?

Happy New Year everyone! I would like to thank all of the fans of my blog for being so awesome! So far, this blog has over 1800 views and it has only been around for 5 months! I hope that number doubles within the next month, so please tell your friends and family about this blog and the things you've learned from it. Also, please do not hesitate to comment on any of the posts with your opinions (good or bad). I need to know these things to improve this blog (it's a constant task).

Anyway, this morning on the Today Show, a mother and son sat with Meredith Vieira. The mother spoke about raising her child and the book she wrote about her child to help other parents. This story may sound boring to you, but once you watch the video, you'll see what makes this a novel tale.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

This brought plenty of questions to my mind that I think can springboard the new year with a new look on acceptance.

1. Does this mark a change in the the general American perceptions of gender roles? if not, what did? Or was there not a change?
2. How does this define (or redefine) "normal" for you?
3. Does this mark a change in the African-American community about gender (masculinity more specifically)?
4. Could this be just a phase or does this mark something bigger (sexuality) for Dyson?
5. What does this teach about acceptance and self-acceptance?

I am still marinating on this video, hoping to hear some feedback and maybe even start interesting discourse.