stereotypes

A 2018 article by Virgil Hawkins for Fair Observer states, (Links to an external site.)“US President Donald Trump’s alleged remarks questioning why the US should take in immigrants from what he apparently called “shithole countries” — those comprising Africa . . . have been met with indignation around the world and sparked a discussion on issues of race and racism, and on the deficiencies of the current US head of state. But perhaps it is also high time for a discussion on the role of the media in creating such negative images in people’s minds regarding immigrants from Africa and the continent from which they come.”

Trump is not alone in holding negative stereotypes of Africa and African peoples. Americans and others are taught–and believe–stereotypes about Africa and Africans and in this module we can learn more about Africa and Africans to help us break away from any stereotypes and gather new knowledge and ideas.

Assignment:

List 7 stereotypes about Africa you have heard, and perhaps believe yourself. Then read through your classmates’ posts to see which stereotypes seem most common or if there are stereotypes you hadn’t thought of. You can comment on other people’s post, but please be polite, even if you disagree with what they said or listed.