A Continent of Misconceptions : Americans must work harder at understanding Africa

Alex Haley’s immensely popular book “Roots” helped to ignite interest in the long and painful odyssey of the Africans to America, but in general Africa remains a continent of misconceptions.

Often it is cast in stereotypical and negative images--Tarzan, poverty, war, corruption, disease, ignorance, savagery and tribalism.

In fact, the continent is a vibrant, diverse collection of nations, languages and people with a rich history reaching back to the pharaohs. Tremendous development is now taking Africa into the future.

We would all benefit from a more expansive, balanced view of contemporary Africa. African history, traditions and folklore are deeply embedded in the American experience, but, unfortunately, general knowledge of Africa is poor at best in the United States.

At Christmastime, many African-American households across the country will be observing Kwanzaa, a seven-day spiritual celebration based on African traditions of thanksgiving and appreciation for the harvest. It’s a time to celebrate family, friends and community.

Less spiritual, certainly, but a welcome attempt to span cultures is retailer J.C. Penney’s marketing of West African imports in the United States.

After its original string of 20 experimental boutiques sold out their merchandise in just three months, the chain is expanding the concept to 11 more stores.

And hand it to NBC’s “Today.” The hosts of the morning television program, Bryant Gumbel and Katie Couric, are in Africa in an effort to present the real continent through a special weeklong series of broadcasts. It is an unusual attempt to spotlight a much neglected part of the world. Old stereotypes will not be dispelled overnight, but providing an armchair education on Africa is a welcome and notable contribution.