Do Recent African Immigrants and African Americans Share Common Ground?

There is an ongoing debate surrounding the similarities and differences between recent African immigrants and African Americans. Some argue that they have more in common than one might think, while others suggest that highlighting these differences can be used to create unnecessary divisions. Based on my personal experiences, I believe there are numerous parallels between the two groups that reflect their shared values of hard work and determination.

Common Values: The Drive for Success

When my children attended a private Catholic school, one of my daughter’s notable achievements was participating in a diocesan spelling bee, where she represented her grade. The winner of this spelling bee was a boy from Africa, and his character and behavior were commendable. This young immigrant exhibited politeness, studiousness, and a strong work ethic, qualities that are characteristic of many immigrants.

Historically, immigrants have understood that success in the United States requires hard work and sacrifice, often without recourse to social welfare or government assistance. This mindset is evident among recent African immigrants, as well. Many African immigrants arrived in the U.S. with the goal of bettering their lives and those of their families. They bring with them a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed, which is crucial for flourishing in a new environment.

It should be noted that this drive for success is not unique to African immigrants. Immigrants from various parts of the world share similar values and aspirations. The U.S. is home to many such immigrants, each contributing to the diverse fabric of American society. Their inventions and patents have significantly boosted the nation's innovation and competitiveness, making the U.S. a global superpower.

Mindset and Acceptance: A Respectful Community

The mindset and behavior of many recent African immigrants reflect a deep sense of respect and community. For instance, in my experience, the African immigrants I know are predominantly from a church-going background, such as the Catholic Church. They appear to be gracious, polite, and well-respected members of their communities. Participation in religious activities and community events often fosters a sense of acceptance and integration.

A notable example is the priest who presided over the Mass I attended this morning – he was from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This highlights the acceptance and integration of recent African immigrants into American religious and community life, paralleling the experiences of many African Americans.

Another interesting observation I have made is the behavior of recent African immigrants when interacting with others. Unlike some African Americans I have known, recent African immigrants do not often use terms like "muzungu," which can be seen as derogatory or inappropriate in certain contexts. This subtle difference in behavior suggests a general receptiveness to the culture and norms of their adopted country.

Ploy or Truth: The Mindset Behind Divisiveness

While it is understandable to see these differences, it is important to recognize the potential for these comparisons to be used as ploys. Some argue that using these differences to create rifts between recent African immigrants and African Americans serves ulterior motives. For instance, some might claim that recent immigrants need to contribute to American life by providing a counterbalance to what they perceive as the negative traits of African Americans.

However, it is crucial to avoid perpetuating stereotypes or divisive beliefs. Some may point to a history among some white individuals of alleging that all African Americans are lazy and reliant on government assistance. Such statements can be harmful, and it is important to address them with facts and encouragement towards unity and cooperation.

Based on personal observations and experiences, I believe that both recent African immigrants and African Americans share a common ground: a shared value of hard work, determination, and respect for one another. This underscores the importance of fostering unity and understanding across communities.