Yes! Most people who come to Canada as international students are eligible to drive in Canada. But, it depends on the province where you’re studying and your driving history in your previous country of residence. In this article, we break down all the essential info on how to drive in Canada as an international student.
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Nigerian immigration to Canada has become increasingly popular in recent years. In fact, Nigeria is one of the main source countries of Canada’s immigrant population; over 15,000 Nigerians immigrated to Canada in 2021.
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On September 20, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced measures to accelerate the processing of some work permits and to extend their validity period for particular categories of individuals. These changes are substantial and are likely to have a meaningful impact on the large work permit backlog in the long run. For the […]
The post DHS’ New Work Permit Measures Are Welcome Change with Potential to Address USCIS Challenges appeared first on Immigration Impact.
By Karen Aho and Robin Lundh of the American Immigration Council Today, Hispanic Americans form the largest ethnic group in the United States. The value of Hispanic Americans to the makeup of the United States—demographically, culturally, and economically—has grown every year. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we look at the most recent data to highlight the […]
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After weeks of failed negotiations on spending, Congress has less than a week left to avert a potential government shutdown. Members of the House Republicans’ Freedom Caucus have refused to pass any spending bill for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) unless it contains HR2, their massive overhaul of border and asylum laws, at a […]
The post What does the looming government shutdown mean for our immigration system? appeared first on Immigration Impact.
In Their Own Words: Personal Essays from African Immigrants in Various Professions —the title alone evokes a tapestry of faces, ambitions, dreams, and struggles that are often lost in the din of immigration debates and cultural stereotypes. When we hear "African immigrants," we rarely think doctor, engineer, artist, entrepreneur, social worker, teacher—the list is longer than your grandma’s church prayers. Today, we strip away the labels and get to the heart of individuality.
You know the morning ritual—shower, brush teeth, suit up, and chug that cup of Joe while scrolling LinkedIn to see who got promoted, who got ousted, and who's spewing motivational wisdom as if they've just had an epiphany atop Mount Sinai. But today, instead of your latte, why not brew up a daily habit of listening to an immigrant narrative? We all hear the adage that stories connect us, but when was the last time you paused your bustling life to genuinely absorb someone else’s story—especially that of an African immigrant in a profession you know little about?
Awe and excitement—those high-arousal emotions you usually reserve for landing a dream job, watching a thrilling game, or, heck, surviving a roller coaster—let's channel that energy into celebrating these incredible individual journeys. Imagine you're a tech developer from Nigeria who transitions into spearheading mental health initiatives, or a Kenyan chef who now uses gastronomy as a form of activism to combat food deserts in inner cities. Each tale not only awes us, but it also shakes the foundation of our ingrained perspectives.
But hold on a second. Let's not just read about these African immigrants as if they're chapters in an intriguing book. No, they're not stories to be picked up and put down—they are life sagas, living and breathing, with daily trials and triumphs that should linger in our minds long after we close our LinkedIn tabs. To paraphrase a wise man, "You're not a drop in the ocean. You're the entire ocean in a drop."
Cross-Continental Families: a phrase that reverberates with promise and complexity, carrying an emotional weight that, for some, defines their very essence. In this seemingly globalized world, what's more personal, more human, than the distance we'll go (literally and figuratively) for family?
Ah, cross-continental families. I'm not talking about the families who're living the jet-set lifestyle, bouncing from Milan Fashion Week to Wall Street meetings. Nope, I'm zeroing in on the unassuming heroes: African immigrants in America whose hearts are stretched thinner than the Atlantic that separates them from their loved ones. We talk about immigration like it’s a sprint—a one-time Herculean feat of crossing borders. But for many, it’s a marathon, a long-distance relationship with an entire world left behind.
Now, let's get this straight. There's a daily habit many of us have that underscores this truth—checking WhatsApp. What, you thought it was just for group chats and memes? For African immigrants with families abroad, it's the equivalent of holding the heartbeat of a distant continent in your palm. Every message loaded with expectations, love, and sometimes even desperate requests for help. As you glance at your phone, you're not just killing time; you're juggling worlds, merging past and present, Africa and America, in a dance as delicate as it is demanding.
The awe of this daily act stems from its simplicity, a digital umbilical cord to a home left behind. You’re not just forwarding messages; you're forwarding life—sometimes even life savings. And with each forwarded bill or medical consultation, there's an undercurrent of love that says, "I'm still here, even when I'm not." The resonance of that is palpable, almost seismic, creating the kind of shared narrative that makes you hit the "share" button before you've even realized it. You're not just maintaining family; you're maintaining humanity.
So let me tell you about Amina. A software engineer from Nigeria working in Silicon Valley, Amina has scaled the heights of American dreams. Yet her WhatsApp pings with messages from her family who are still navigating power cuts, political upheavals, and poor medical access in Lagos. Amina's American life is replete with Whole Foods trips and binge-watching Netflix shows, yet her most valuable subscription isn't one she can find on any streaming platform. It's the emotional bandwidth she reserves for daily check-ins with her family, a connection that serves as both her grounding and her elevation.
This is the pulse of cross-continental families, a heartbeat heard across oceans. It's the joy of being able to bring two worlds into one, yet the inherent struggle of feeling perpetually torn between them. It's the dichotomy of navigating board meetings in the day and negotiating with local chiefs on family matters by night. Amina's story is one among countless others, each one a testament to the resilience and sacrifice embedded in the African immigrant narrative.
In essence, if you thought crossing continents was merely about distance, think again. It's about breaking and making family ties in a way that redefines love, duty, and identity. This is the alchemy of family, the unseen labor, often carried by those who've left one home to make another. It's about juggling WhatsApp messages with the same finesse as juggling cultural identities. It's about love without borders—even when there are borders everywhere.
Afro-European Immigrants in America: A Unique Cultural Intersection. A seemingly arcane topic, yet one so vital in understanding the full spectrum of American life—where identities aren't just lived but are layered, complex, and deeply enriched by a blend of histories.
When you walk down a bustling street in New York City, you can smell the food from around the world, hear the cadence of diverse languages, and see the vibrant colors of various cultural attires. But in the midst of this kaleidoscope of humanity, there exists a unique cultural intersection that often goes unnoticed—the Afro-European immigrant experience in America. This isn't just a curiosity, my friends; it's a stunning display of what humanity can be when we let go of borders—geographical or mental.
Ever started your morning with a shot of espresso, put on some jazz tunes, and read the news on your smartphone? Coffee, Jazz, Technology. What do they all have in common? A rich history shaped by Afro-European intersections. You see, the African drum beats influenced Jazz, an art form that has a central place in American culture. Espresso, a hallmark of European sophistication, is now a routine for Americans. And that smartphone? It's the epitome of global connectivity. This isn't just your morning routine; it's a daily pilgrimage to the cultural temple built by Afro-European immigrants. So, the next time you sip that espresso while humming to Coltrane, remember you're tasting and hearing centuries of Afro-European syncretism.
Ah, the awestruck faces of those who discover the layers of Afro-European culture for the first time! It's like watching someone bite into a sumptuous meal they've never tasted before. You know that feeling when you stumble upon an incredible artist on Spotify, and you can't believe you've been living all these years without their music? That's the feeling you get when you unearth the Afro-European treasures in America. It's not just delightful; it's downright exhilarating!
Imagine this. A Nigerian-Italian woman, Lola, raised in the bustling city of Milan, moves to Chicago. She's a master of Afrobeat and opera, a blend so unusual yet perfect that it takes your breath away. In Chicago, she creates a culinary masterpiece—a fusion restaurant that marries Yoruba cuisine with Italian flavors. Picture an okra & squid ink risotto or a yam and Parmesan gnocchi. It becomes the talk of the town, a cultural phenomenon discussed at dinner tables and corporate boardrooms alike. Her story is not just a success saga; it's a vivid tableau of the Afro-European immigrant experience—living proof that the American Dream isn't just for those who fit into neat, predefined cultural boxes.
In conclusion, Afro-European immigrants in America are not merely survivors adapting to a new land. They are alchemists, transforming what they touch and creating gold from the mingling of their rich heritages. Whether it's the daily rituals we partake in or the exhilarating discovery of new cultural landscapes, Afro-European immigrants add a unique, irreplaceable layer to the American tapestry. And if you're lucky enough to be woven into this intricate fabric, you'll find that life is richer, more vibrant, and infinitely more interesting.
We often celebrate the classic immigrant story of courage, struggle, and eventual triumph. But what happens when you sprinkle in the complications of navigating higher education in America, particularly from an African immigrant's standpoint? Spoiler: it's not all straight As and graduation caps. But oh, what a story it is.
I'm not here to regale you with your grandmother's bedtime stories. No, this is the caffeine-jolt, page-turning, edge-of-your-seat thriller known as "Higher Education Hurdles and Triumphs for African Immigrants in the U.S." It's like 'The Odyssey,' only instead of fighting Cyclopes, you're battling FAFSA forms, and instead of a wooden horse, you've got student loans breathing down your neck.
Picture this: Adebayo, fresh off a plane from Lagos, Nigeria, eyes gleaming with the reflected skyline of New York City, finds himself sitting in an Advanced Calculus class at Columbia University. Little does he know, he's about to embark on a more complex equation than anything he'll find in his textbook—solving the American Dream, variables and all.
So how do you navigate the labyrinth that is American higher education without a compass, or worse, with a compass that’s culturally misaligned? Well, you make a daily habit out of it. Every day, Adebayo checks his email religiously, hoping to decode the enigmatic phrases like "conditional acceptance," "academic probation," and the ultimate oxymoron, "financial aid." Just like you and me, clinging to our morning cup of joe like a lifeline, he clings to these daily rituals. Let's make it LinkedIn-official: make deciphering the language of higher education part of your daily ritual if you're an immigrant. If not, you risk being lost at sea, my friends, without even the siren songs to keep you entertained.
Are you tingling with excitement yet? Well, hold onto your office chairs, because here comes the awe part. Adebayo, despite language barriers, cultural misfires, and a diet that now uncomfortably wavers between Jollof rice and ramen noodles, graduates. Not only that, but he lands a coveted internship with Goldman Sachs. It's not the luck of the draw; it's the luck of the daily grind. It's the je ne sais quoi of a journey so riveting it could only be rivaled by the moon landing or discovering that your favorite deli now accepts Bitcoin.
But here's the rub: Adebayo's story isn't just Adebayo's story. It's Fatima's story from Senegal, it's Akua's from Ghana, and yes, it's your story, too, because whether or not you were born on American soil, you're part of this twisted, intricate tapestry of American dreams and education.
Co-Authors: Rich André, Asma Easa, Micaela McConnell, Paloma Ramos Last week, communities across the United States participated in Welcoming America’s Welcoming Week. The annual campaign has rapidly expanded over the years to include more than 650 local events that showcase each community’s commitment to fostering welcoming and belonging for all their residents, including their immigrant […]
The post Communities Celebrate Their Commitment to Welcoming and Belonging During Welcoming Week appeared first on Immigration Impact.
When we talk about the African immigrant experience, the stories often vary as much as the patterns on a kente cloth—colorful, intricate, and unique. But what if the cloth is woven from threads of struggle, fear, and the quest for acceptance? Hold that thought as we delve into the untold narrative of African LGBTQ+ immigrants, seeking not just asylum but acceptance.
Life isn't always a bowl of jollof rice and suya skewers—spicy, flavorful, and thoroughly enjoyable. No, sometimes it's more like a bitter leaf soup, a necessary gulp of reality that we have to swallow whether we're ready for it or not. You know, every immigrant steps off the plane with a suitcase full of dreams and a heart full of hope, but African LGBTQ+ immigrants? They often disembark with an added carry-on: a shadow of their authentic selves, hidden for the sake of survival.
Now, imagine starting each day by donning a mask. Not just the COVID-19 kind that hides half your face, but a full-on masquerade that obscures your essence. This is the daily ritual for many African LGBTQ+ immigrants, a dance with duality that serves as both shield and cage. Sip your morning coffee, slide into your work attire, and camouflage your true identity—because in a world demanding conformity, authenticity is revolutionary.
Ah, the thrill of revelation! Like the moment you realize 'Wakanda Forever' isn't just a movie catchphrase but a battle cry for representation and dignity. Well, here's another awe-inspiring tidbit: African LGBTQ+ immigrants are transforming the very landscape of asylum laws in the United States. These individuals, seeking not just physical safety but emotional freedom, are advocating for more inclusive immigration policies. If that doesn't elicit a guttural "YES!" from your depths, you might need to check if you're still human.
But let's fold this reality into a story that binds us all—a narrative woven with threads of adversity, resilience, and transformation. Meet Amina, a transgender woman from Uganda, who risked it all to step on American soil as her genuine self. Once a closeted engineer living in Kampala, she's now a fierce advocate fighting for asylum reform. Each morning, as she dresses in her truth, her ritual becomes an act of defiance against the systemic prejudices that once muzzled her. Amina is not just an immigrant; she is a catalyst for change. In her struggle and triumph, we see the epitome of what it means to seek not just asylum, but acceptance.
In the summer of 2020, after George Floyd’s murder, racial justice protests took hold in cities throughout the country. The massive mobilization reflected a nationwide groundswell of opposition to abusive and deadly policing. The importance of the movement and the need for change in the country was clear. The government’s response to this historic […]
The post New Report Uncovers CBP’s Role in Policing Racial Justice Protests in Summer 2020 appeared first on Immigration Impact.
Politics. It's not just for the born-and-bred American anymore. The immigrant experience has a seat at the table, and that chair is rocking the nation's political spectrum in ways that many haven't dared to imagine. Especially when it comes to African immigrants in the American political arena, it's not just about influence. It's about defining a narrative and changing the game.
You're scrolling through your LinkedIn feed, sipping that overpriced cold brew you pretend to enjoy, when suddenly you stumble upon an article titled "African Immigrants Making Waves in Local Politics." You skim through it, nodding here and there. But do you ever stop to think about what this truly signifies? Let me hit you with a surprise twist: This isn't just about the African immigrant experience. This is about the American experience, redefined.
Let's go beyond the surface-level idea of a "diverse political landscape." Forget about the statistics and data for a second; we're not here to crunch numbers. We're here to see how influence and participation of African immigrants in the American political arena will redefine the word "power" in the American lexicon. Yes, power. A concept as all-American as apple pie and just as spicy as jollof rice.
Imagine making this a part of your daily LinkedIn scroll: Instead of mindlessly reading articles, look for African immigrant leaders who are making headway in local or national politics. Follow them. Engage with them. Don't just be a spectator; become a part of the narrative. Trust me, it's like adding a dash of hot sauce to your cold brew; it won't just wake you up, it'll set your soul on fire.
I can almost hear your heart pounding with excitement. "This is it!" you think. "African immigrants are more than just a trending topic; they are a revelation, a seismic shift in the tectonic plates of American political influence." And you're right. They are the voice that articulates the words of Langston Hughes' deferred dream. They are the hands that sculpt the Statue of Liberty's torch into a beacon that shines brighter and wider. They are the embodiment of the audacity to hope and the tenacity to turn that hope into tangible change.
Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. We are often so wrapped up in the velocity of modern life that we overlook those who hold the keys to timeless wisdom. Today's digital court of public opinion has nothing on the sagacious, traditional courts presided over by African elders. If you've never met an African elder statesman or stateswoman, buckle up; you're about to take a proverbial journey to the heart of human wisdom.
Ah, African elders in America. That phrase itself is like the opening line of a beautiful epic that's yet to be written, or the title of an award-winning documentary you’d stumble upon on a sleepless night. I could tell you how they’re the bearers of a rich tapestry of cultural wisdom and traditions, but I’d be merely scratching the surface.
Now picture this. You’re rushing through your morning routine—slinging on your crisp suit, combing your hair, chugging your coffee like it’s an Olympic sport. Why not include an age-old African custom into your routine? A simple, daily moment of reflection, a proverb or two from a village elder that you ponder while you're stuck in traffic or on your commute. Like mental yoga, it keeps your perspective limber. I'm talking a moment that not just seizes the day but enriches it. Think of it as your daily vitamin for the soul, brought to you by someone who's seen life in colors and shades you haven't even dreamt of. You might just find that some of these proverbs infiltrate your day in the most unexpected and delightful ways, adding a touch of ageless wisdom to your thoroughly modern conundrums.
You’ve probably seen the LinkedIn videos—the ones with dramatic music, graphics flipping across the screen, and an overly enthusiastic narrator pushing you to think big, aim high, conquer the world. Sure, those might send a jolt of adrenaline rushing through you. But have you ever experienced a thrill like hearing an African elder recount a tale of resilience, imparting wisdom that's been passed down through generations? It's like bungee jumping into an abyss of ancestral knowledge. This is not the usual "5 steps to enhance your productivity"; it's a tale that makes you reevaluate your very essence. This wisdom, when it comes from someone who has been a community linchpin for decades, can be the catalyst for a revolution of thought in your professional life.
Here's a story you won't forget—a young man from Cameroon came to America, brimming with ambition but also tormented by the loneliness that often accompanies such a transition. An African elder told him, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Those simple words reshaped his understanding of community and success in a foreign land. Years later, this young man, imbued with wisdom and cultural values, became an entrepreneur. He emphasized teamwork in his venture, often sharing the same proverb with his employees. It wasn't just a saying; it was an ethos. The business thrived, but more importantly, so did the spirit of community within his organization.
When you hear the term "STEM," you probably think of cutting-edge technology, laboratories, and people in white coats. But what if I told you that behind those white coats, behind those algorithms, and behind those awe-inspiring innovations are stories of struggle, ambition, and hope that cross oceans? Today, let's put a face to the initials S-T-E-M, and add a few more—like E-M-O-T-I-O-N and H-U-M-A-N-I-T-Y.
Here's something most of you don't know: many of the names on STEM research papers, Silicon Valley startups, and world-changing patents are attached to faces that began their life's journey in Africa. Intriguing, isn't it? Often, we discuss diversity in STEM through the scope of demographics or numbers. Yawn! What if I told you that the real flavor, the real marrow of the story, isn't in diversity but in unity? That's right—people from backgrounds as varied as the colors of kente cloth are coming together to make your iPhone smarter, your medicine more effective, and your world a tad better. This isn't just diversity; it's convergence—where cultures, ideas, and yes, long-standing family recipes all contribute to the holistic advancement of science and technology.
Now, let's get practical for a second. Want to keep this story lingering in your consciousness? Here's a daily routine for you: Each time you use your GPS, thank Dr. Gladys West, an African-American mathematician whose algorithms paved the way for the GPS system. Then, remind yourself that there's a Dr. West-in-the-making right now, who may be a young immigrant navigating through the complexities of U.S. academia, balancing multiple jobs, all while acing those wicked quantum physics exams. It's like doing crunches for your empathy muscles. Daily.
You want excitement? How about the awe of discovering that the artificial limb that helped an American soldier walk again was co-engineered by an African immigrant who drew from tribal lore in biomechanics? Talk about the ultimate Avengers crossover episode, but in real life! And if you aren't buzzing with the need to share this right now, just imagine yourself being part of a story where you're not just an observer but an active participant. You're contributing to a narrative where every E=mc^2 is spiced with a dash of jollof rice. Now that's a story worth sharing, don't you think?
To wrap up, we talked about how the real story of African immigrants in STEM is not one of token diversity but rather a magnificent tale of unity and convergence. We've seen how incorporating a simple, daily routine can serve as a reminder of the young talent percolating through the academic sieve, waiting to add their unique flavor to the STEM stew. Finally, we felt the electric charge of realizing that each scientific equation, each algorithm, carries within it the heartbeat of a multitude of cultures, stories, and dreams.
So the next time you see STEM, don't just see Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. See the faces, hear the accents, feel the pulse of a unified world making strides in science—and in humanity.
Studying in Canada is a dream come true for many international students. When you receive a letter of acceptance from a Canadian school, it might seem like the hard part is over. However, the truth is that it can be a lot harder to get a Canadian study permit than you think and you could face a student visa rejection.
The post 5 Reasons Canadian Study Permit Applications Get Refused appeared first on Canadim.
Friendship and Solidarity: African Immigrants and Native Black Americans. The cocktail you never knew you needed but can’t imagine living without. This is about two sides of the same coin, the Yin and Yang of the broader Black experience in America. No sugarcoating. Buckle up!
Ah, friendship and solidarity. That's like bread and butter, Netflix and chill, or Kanye and Twitter rants—except, of course, more profound and societally impactful. Think about it; in a nation birthed from the womb of diversity but with the growing pains of systemic discrimination, African Immigrants and Native Black Americans can teach us all a thing or two about unity in diversity. But I'm not talking your run-of-the-mill "Kumbaya" moment. Nope, this is about that raw, unfiltered camaraderie that resembles a barbecue cookout where everyone is invited, and the grilling is just as much about social issues as it is about meat.
So let's make a habit of this, shall we? Every morning, when you scroll through your LinkedIn feed to catch the latest in leadership, innovation, or whatever buzzword is the flavor of the month, I want you to look for stories of intersectionality. Whether it's that inspiring African immigrant entrepreneur partnering with Native Black American communities to provide clean water or the new artistic collab blending Afrobeat and Hip-hop, make a deliberate choice to celebrate these ties. Why? Because, my friend, that's not just good business; it's soul food for a nation starved of genuine unity.
Oh, feel that? That's your pulse quickening. It's awe, isn't it? Because here's the thing—every single act of friendship and solidarity between African Immigrants and Native Black Americans is nothing short of revolutionary. It's like taking a paintbrush dipped in resilience, splattering it across the canvas of the American Dream, and watching as it forms a picture too compelling to ignore. These aren't just isolated acts; they form a tapestry of defiance against a history that's tried to pit minority against minority, a blueprint for what America could be.
But wait, let's not forget the cherry on top. How about a narrative you ask? Picture this: A Nigerian immigrant nurse named Tolu works tirelessly in an inner-city hospital, mostly serving Native Black American patients. She's not just passing out meds; she's learning about the Harlem Renaissance, the Civil Rights Movement, the essence of soul food. Across town, Michael, a Native Black American graphic designer, gets a gig to design a brand identity for an Ethiopian restaurant. He doesn't just churn out logos; he dives deep into Amharic scripts, the history of Haile Selassie, and, of course, the intricacies of injera. Both Tolu and Michael are changed forever, connected by strings of empathy, respect, and a newfound love for Jollof rice and fried chicken. Together, they embody the actualization of Dr. King's Dream, Malcolm's fight, and the hopes of every African parent who saw America as a land of opportunity. They represent friendship and solidarity; they represent us at our best.
Completing a credential from a Canadian designated learning institution is a great option for individuals looking to eventually work and settle in the country. At some point in your studies, you may want to start working in Canada. The process of changing your study permit to a work permit will depend on where you are at in your program.
The post From a Study Permit to a Work Permit in Canada appeared first on Canadim.
Canada consistently ranks among the most popular destinations for newcomers to immigrate to. So it comes as no surprise that there are many great reasons to immigrate to Canada. With a high quality of life, celebrated multiculturalism, and breathtaking wilderness, Canada has earned its ranking among the top countries in the world.
The post Should I Move to Canada? – 8 Reasons to Immigrate to Canada appeared first on Canadim.
“There should be no private prisons, period, none, period. And we are working to close all of them.” Those are the words of President Joe Biden in April 2021, when he was called out by immigrant rights activists at a rally celebrating his 100th day in office. This was a welcome promise to immigrants and […]
The post Biden Administration Fights to Keep Private Immigration Jails Open, Despite Promises appeared first on Immigration Impact.
The school year has started, and many college students are returning to campuses nationwide, including undocumented and DACA-eligible students. Data from the 2021 American Community Survey (ACS) and analyzed by the American Immigration Council reveals that 408,000 of these students are undocumented, representing 1.9% of all college students in the country. About a third of […]
The post A Snapshot of Undocumented College Students in the United States appeared first on Immigration Impact.
In a land of diversity and melting pots, dance serves as the universal language that surpasses boundaries, drowns out noise, and digs deep into the roots of our ancestry. As we cha-cha-cha through corporate jungles and salsa across diplomatic floors, let’s not forget the hidden gems—unique dance forms that African immigrants bring to the American tapestry. Hold tight; this is a dance floor like no other.
You know, America's known as the land of opportunities, where dreams are made, but let's talk about the land of rhythm, where dreams are danced. Have you ever considered the irreplaceable cultural value that African immigrants bring to our, let's face it, rhythmically-challenged nation? While we're jamming to the latest Beyoncé hits, someone halfway across the world is swaying to the complex beats of Gwara Gwara from South Africa. They bring it here, to the land of dreams, so you better get your dancing shoes on.
Forget your morning coffee routine. Try starting your day by watching a 2-minute clip of traditional African dance. Trust me, your caffeine will bow to the adrenaline rush this daily dose of culture offers. Whether it's the Nigerian Shaku Shaku or the Ivorian Coupé-Décalé, these dances will not only shake you awake but also give you a sense of community and history before you get lost in your Excel sheets. Just imagine entering your morning meeting with a newfound zest, instantly making you the unofficial 'Office Cool Person.'
The thought of incorporating these culturally rich dance forms into mainstream America isn’t just exciting; it’s jaw-dropping. The precise footwork, the intricate rhythms, and the unspoken communication between the dancers and drummers—it's like the Wall Street of dance, a meticulously choreographed market of emotions, strategy, and execution. Can you imagine Broadway musicals incorporating the Ethiopian Eskista or Somali Dhaanto? We're talking about a cultural Big Bang, a seismic shift in how we perceive the fusion of cultures through art. Share this; let your network be the first to be blown away by the endless possibilities.
So, let's embark on a journey through the boardrooms and breakrooms of America where the legacy of unique African dance forms are not just showcased during cultural fairs but become the lifeblood of American artistic expression. From the kid in Brooklyn trying to mix breakdance with Azonto, to the elderly woman in Nebraska finding her groove in Malian traditional dances, we're not just adopting moves; we're inheriting a heritage, a lineage, and a narrative. This isn't just a dance; it's a revolution on the soles of our feet, inscribed in the sweat of our brows, and narrated in the sway of our hips.
To sum up, the time is ripe to embrace the rich tapestry of dance forms that African immigrants bring to America. It’s not just an addition to our culture; it’s a must-have, a life force that not only enriches but defines us. It’s a tale of unity, expression, and above all, a profound dance across the vast stages of human existence.
If you speak French, taking the TEF or TCF language test can significantly increase your chances in the Express Entry pool.
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In an era where globalization is often worn as a badge of honor or used as a whipping post, depending on which side of the political aisle you sit, literature still manages to construct bridges where walls once stood. Could the influx of African literature into American libraries be one of those bridges?
I remember the day I stumbled across Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” in a small antique store in rural Virginia. Yes, Virginia—where the African diaspora is as sparse as a comb-over on a windy day. Here was a book so deeply entrenched in Nigerian culture and African complexities, sitting right next to Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," a quintessential tale of American youth. Achebe next to Twain; Nigeria sharing shelf space with the Mississippi River. Friends, this isn't just bookkeeping. This is a sign, no, a manifesto of cultural integration!
The growing representation of African literature in American libraries doesn't only diversify our bookshelves; it transforms them into cultural dialogue sessions. Each time you crack open one of these masterpieces—say, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "Purple Hibiscus"—you're not just reading. You're engaging in a cross-continental, cross-cultural tête-à -tête.
So here's a daily habit to keep the magic alive: the next time you visit a library or scroll through an e-library, challenge yourself to pick up an African authored book. And don't just look at it; READ it. Share its insights on LinkedIn. Let's make #AfricanLiteratureInAmericanLibraries more than a moment; let's make it a movement. We don't just scroll through LinkedIn for the thrill of corporate voyeurism. We’re here for growth, people! Personal, professional, and yes, cultural.
Why does this matter? Because it awakens something inside us—a sense of excitement, awe, or a potent cocktail of both. When we amplify the voice of an African author, we create space for dialogue, for understanding, for empathy. We enable a conversation that's so much bigger than ourselves. A story isn't just a narrative; it’s a tool of integration. And when these stories become as American as apple pie—or should I say, as American as sweet potato pie—we’re doing something right.
In the tale of the "growth of African literature in American libraries," we all play an indispensable role—librarians as curators, readers as amplifiers, and writers as the architects of cultural bridges. We're not just cataloging books; we're cataloging experiences, identities, and wisdom. So, the next time you walk into a library, remember, the growing presence of African literature isn't merely a cataloging choice; it's a deliberate act of integration that enriches our collective soul.
On August 24, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new update to its policy manual clarifying a previous policy change aimed at expanding green card eligibility under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) for children who lost eligibility, or “aged out”, due to the years-long visa backlogs. Before getting into the new […]
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So, you think you know America? Buckle up, buttercup. We're about to take a detour off the crowded city streets and into the heartland. Forget your skyscrapers and city buzz; we're delving into the unsung experiences of African immigrants making a home between the cornfields and the wide-open skies.
Ah, rural America, that scenic tableau where amber waves of grain outweigh the population and cattle might just outnumber your Tinder matches. Now, picture this: African immigrants, those very faces framed by the narrative of bustling urban diaspora communities, thriving amidst the rolling hills and pasturelands. Yeah, you read that right. Thriving.
Rural America's narrative has long been claimed by a palette that's as limited as the menu at a roadside diner. Think rural, and it's cowboy hats, not kufis; tractors, not djembes. But here’s a little plot twist for your subconscious screenplay: the story of African immigrants who chose the heartbeat of the heartland over the clatter of the city. And in doing so, they've not just survived, but thrived. Kind of like planting an exotic seed in unlikely soil and seeing it flourish into something extraordinary.
So, how do you remind yourself of this unsung narrative each day? Maybe you're into meditation or mindfulness. Why not make it a daily habit to read or listen to a story from someone whose life experience is a world apart from your own? Use that LinkedIn feed for more than just humblebrags and buzzwords. Take five minutes to click on a story about an immigrant farmer or a small-town African entrepreneur in the U.S. It won't just enrich your perspective; it'll make your daily scroll infinitely more meaningful.
You might be feeling an unexpected excitement right now. Like that moment you find an extra fry at the bottom of the bag—only this fry makes you question societal frameworks. Because, guess what? This is a narrative that could fundamentally shift our understanding of immigration, of rural life, and of the American Dream itself. These stories are riveting, mind-bending, and as spectacular as any viral meme. Only, they’re real.
African immigrants in rural areas are turning monocultures into melting pots, one small town at a time. They're the embodiment of resilience and innovation, showing that the American Dream has room to evolve, to grow, to expand beyond cities, into the very marrow of America. It's life beyond the city. It's a promise that rings true across the most unexpected terrains. It’s a narrative of hope, grit, and astonishing vitality, and it’s hiding in plain sight, right between the evergreens and the open roads.
For all its challenges, love in the modern age still has a way of knitting disparate worlds together. It's the ultimate alchemy, turning the disparate into the cohesive. This blog dives deep into the nexus of love and identity, especially through the lens of marriages between African immigrants and Native Americans—a union that merges continents, cultures, and histories.
Love, as the classic saying goes, knows no boundaries. When it comes to intermarriage between African immigrants and Native Americans, boy, are we talking Cosmic Love, the kind that makes boundaries more obsolete than a Blockbuster Video store. We’re amalgamating rich cultural heritages, folks. We're mixing drumbeats with flutes, kente cloth with beaded regalia, and—get this—two profoundly rich traditions of storytelling into one epic saga of love and life.
So let's talk about the elephant—or shall I say the buffalo and the lion—in the room: How do these love stories defy societal norms and enrich our collective narrative?
Well, for starters, this union is a celebration of resilience. Look, African immigrants and Native Americans come from backgrounds that are steeped in struggle and triumph, persecution and perseverance. When these two souls meet, it’s not just a marriage; it’s a veritable U.N. General Assembly of ancestral warriors giving each other a nod of approval.
Okay, LinkedIn. I know you love actionable insights, so how about this: Each morning when you wake up, consider the borders and boundaries—literal and metaphorical—you’ll cross today. Will you integrate someone else’s world into your own in a meaningful way? If love can cross oceans and reservations, surely your daily interactions can cross a department, a street, or a point of view.
Here's what's fascinating: the very act of these unions implicitly challenges the systemic racial and cultural hierarchies we often blindly accept. Just think about it! These love stories defy not just geographical distance, but historical dissonance. They create a beautiful future, woven from threads of two deeply rich pasts. That should make your spine tingle with awe or, at the very least, make you want to give the universe a high-five.
Let me weave you a tale, a composite of real stories. Imagine Kemi, a Nigerian immigrant, brilliant in her own right, a software engineer by day and an African dance enthusiast by night. Then there's Tom, a Native American graphic artist whose work echoes the rich tapestry of his heritage. They meet in an art gallery, and a painting—featuring an African savanna that fades into an American prairie—catches their eyes. It's the perfect metaphor for their ensuing love story.
Their wedding is a testament to a united, integrated world—where the African djembe drums reverberate to the echo of Native American chants, where beadwork meets woven Kente in a breathtaking dance of colors and textures. When their eyes meet, it’s evident; they're not just a couple. They're a powerful statement against divisiveness.
In an age where we've traded handshakes for elbow bumps and "you're on mute" has become the anthem of our virtual gatherings, let's not forget about those who've been navigating this topsy-turvy landscape in scrubs and gloves. Today, we pull the curtain on a group that has been making an indelible impact on American healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic: African Immigrants.
If COVID-19 was a movie, our healthcare professionals would be the underdog protagonists, the Spidermans and Wonder Women of this plague-ridden era. But the people I want to talk about are the supporting characters who often get left out of the credit roll. African immigrants in healthcare are like the Samwise Gamgees of the medical 'Lord of the Rings,' right there in the trenches but somehow hidden in the shadow of the narrative.
You think your morning ritual of chugging down espresso and navigating Zoom is chaotic? Let me serve you a daily habit that’s harder to swallow than black coffee. Many African immigrant healthcare professionals start their day by calculating the time difference to connect with family across the Atlantic, reassuring worried parents that they are alright, before setting out to fight a global pandemic. If that isn't a morning routine that will stick to your ribs like grits at a Southern breakfast, I don't know what is.
You see, the awe here isn't just the Herculean tasks they do, but the gargantuan psychological leaps they make. These professionals have come from places where healthcare might not be as advanced, but community is as robust as the African Baobab tree. And here they are, thousands of miles from what they know, saving lives in a land that sometimes questions their very belonging.
But it’s not all applause and standing ovations. The very same healthcare system that they're fortifying throws curveballs their way. They face institutional challenges, from being pigeonholed into roles that don't fully utilize their skill sets, to the daily microaggressions that can make scrubbing in feel like suiting up for battle. They aren't just combating a virus; they're also taking on a system rife with disparities.