Program Advances AIDS Fight In Black Community

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The PFA program has the overall objective of building partnerships with organizations and individuals in the African American community that can contribute to the fight against HIV/ AIDS in its partner countries. Their program has particular focus on supporting organizations/programs in Africa that promote economic empowerment of women as poverty has been closely linked with the spread of the HIV/AIDS. In addition, there is a crisis developing in Africa as the number of orphaned children left to fend for themselves continues to spiral. PFA, therefore, also supports HIV/AIDS orphans. African women and children are suffering in huge numbers and disproportionately as a result of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Why Connect To Africa?

Africans and African Americans share a common historical link. As already stated by the government of Ghana, African Americans are considered Diaspora Africans. Just as Jewish Americans, Polish Americans, Mexican Americans, etc. embrace their country of origin, African Americans may also want to consider forging stronger links to their continent of origin.

By starting the linking process to Africa, African Americans have the opportunity to reclaim a historical and cultural legacy that does not start with slavery in the U.S.. Exploring historical roots, can provide African Americans with greater awareness of the sophisticated civilizations and rich culture of their ancestors that is a source of pride and can build a stronger sense of historical identity. This is a powerful concept, when one considers its impact on building the self esteem of African American children and youth. Africa, in turn, stands to gain from partnerships with African Americans that would facilitate access to important knowledge transfer, and financial and technical resources that can make significant impact on the continent's struggle against HIV/AIDS and other development challenges.