“The reason there will be no change is because the people who stand to lose from change have all the power. And the people who stand to gain from change have none of the power.” – Machiavelli
The song Do They Know It’s Christmas premiered in 1984 in an attempt to raise awareness and funds for those suffering from the famine in Ethiopia. Its resurgence in 2004, 2011 and 2014 demonstrates good intentions, while simultaneously demonstrating the problematic stereotypes the Western world perpetuates upon the people of Africa.
With lyrics such as, “There's a world outside your window and it's a world of dread and fear. Where the only water flowing is the bitter sting of tears.” and, “… the greatest gift they'll get this year is life. Where nothing ever grows, no rain nor rivers flow. Do they know it's Christmas time at all?” it is no wonder the Western world is so eager to financially support the organizations offering aid to various parts of Africa. While the lyrics successfully manipulate the audience’s emotions, they are hardly an accurate representation of Africa or it’s people.
Africa is commonly referred to as if it were a small country, however, it is an incredibly large continent which is completely self sustainable in terms of its resources. Cities such as Laos, Nairobi and Cairo are incredibly successful and booming business hubs, with the majority of the population having wide access to technology. This is not to say, as a continent, Africa is not victim to rampant poverty and disease. However, the way in which the Western world stereotypes Africa and its people as barren, perpetuates a system of paternalism and reliance.
Foreign aid too often ignores our structural knowledge of poverty. When people are given the opportunity to education, loans and rights by law – elements that foster personal responsibility – they are far more successful in breaking the poverty cycle. Instead, large corporations based in social entrepreneurship leave the people on the receiving end reliant on a company that is ultimately gaining from their poverty. Companies of this nature often further poverty by damaging local economies. No small business can compete with what is free. Politicians and celebrities who behave as though they are representatives for the poor often spearhead foreign aid campaigns. The issue with this concept is that the poor are rarely invited to speak.
Just as we lament the poverty in Africa, and debate solutions in classrooms and across dinner tables, students in Africa lament the lack of gun control in the United States, and the obesity epidemic throughout North America. It is easy to suggest solutions from afar. However, the current system suggests we as a Western society are morally and intellectually superior, which is simply untrue.
While the intentions of the charity industry are benevolent, intentions are useless if they are not followed by meaningful and effective action. It is imperative we focus less on writing cheques, and instead focus on real and equal relationships. We must remember we are not an authority on ending poverty – as poverty continues to exist among us. Carefully research where your donations are going, and the potential complications to the support of foreign aid organizations.
Jennifer Hamilton is a local student and writer.
