Women Environmental Programme: The Evelyn Terundu Ugbe Series (The American Dream)

The American Dream

I am tasked to reflect on the intentions of those who coined the American Dream. While some opine  that it meant equal treatment and  opportunities for all regardless of gender, race and class. Others hold that hard work and determination are leeway to unlimited opportunities.

 The materialistic views hold  that wealth can only be acquired by hard work. For others it means simplicity, joyful and fulfilled life. To migrants it means land of endless opportunities. America is said to be God's own country. In my own opinion some precepts can be deducted from The American Dream that is hard work and daunting confidence. Judging by current events has American Dream become American Nightmare?

 The American  Dream is old as America itself. In my own opinion tops the chat of popularity amidst Coca Cola and Micheal Jackson. Is there anybody who doesn't know this two? American dream is popularized in all facets by musicians,  movies, politicians, scholars, the list is inexhaustible. Are you familiar with 24, super man, spider man, Airforce One, London Has Fallen, White House Down, Armageddon.....?  These movies portray  America as savior of the world and epitome of perfection which aligns with the American Dream. It  is evident that this short phrase is very powerful and engraves aura of success in the minds of most Americans. 

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I am not writing to critique the American Dream, my stance is Are there lessons to learn for the young Africans and future generations.  Can  we transform the negative narrative about Africa? Yes colonialism and imperialism has clogged the wheel of development but must we continue to dwell on  this narrative? Can we stop entrenching modern slavery? can we stop perfecting the act of slave driving? Can we do away with the get rich soon syndrome?

Many Africans live the continent in search of greener pastures.  while many have succeeded, many more undertake low paid jobs under extreme conditions they earn enough to feed and service tax systems. Others are justly or unjustly languishing in various prisons. Are there  truly equal opportunities regardless of race in America? Do we really achieve our American Dream. This a wake up for us to Work hard and confidentially create our AFRICAN DREAM.