I grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana, a city steeped in African-American culture. My hometown shares much with Africa from cultural marks okra, gumbo and voodoo to more unfortunate institutional problems such as corrupt and inefficient government, poverty, as well as general misfortune (hurrican Katrina and the oilspill). However, like many in Africa, New Orleanians have been able to preserve an amazingly upbeat spirit and fun-loving culture. It is perhaps these similarities that drew my interest to the African continent.
I am currently studying African Affairs and International Politics at the Walsh School of Foreign Service in Washington, DC. While at school I have been able to take advantage of being in such an international city for the first time, meeting many Africans - from professors to ambassadors, former presidents and activists to cab drivers and other immigrants working to make it in a new country, as well as many fellow students. I have learned much from their stories and experiences, in both formal and informal settings.
I analyze African events regularly at my blog: http://blogafriquepolitique.blogspot.com/
I can be reached at jacksonlp6@gmail.com