Africa: A Return, Not a Risk 

Africa is often reduced to a single story – typically one of poverty, disease, hunger or conflict. Another narrative that has gained currency is that the continent is a “black hole of investing.”

This Africa Day is an opportunity to tackle these harmful narratives. Every year, it is a celebration of African solidarity, unity in diversity, creativity, as well as the cultural and economic potential of the continent and its people. It is even more pressing as sweeping cuts to official foreign assistance programs by leading donors, including the United States, threaten to reverse hard-earned progress.

Here’s a look at what’s happening in the US: 

Capitol Hill Photo Exhibit

ONE will curate a photo exhibit on Capitol Hill May 20-21 to illustrate the opportunities and potential for smart investment in Africa. The photos represent stories from the World Bank, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria as well as private philanthropy and private sector investments.  

Hover over the photos below to learn about the stories presented in the exhibit.

Faith Engagement

Africa Day falls on a Sunday this year, and ONE faith leaders are celebrating during worship services to pray and take action. Where US churches have African ministry partners, each will pick a time during their service to pray for Africa and their partnering church and on the same day, the African ministry partner will do the same to pray for the US and their partnering church. 

Grassroots Events

ONE advocates around the country are partnering with local groups on Africa Day celebrations or hosting their own events. They will be asking people to take impactful advocacy action at the events, along with helping us share stories of impact.  

In May, ONE advocates will be participating in and hosting events across the US in the following locations: 

  • Aberdeen, SD
  • Alburqurque, NM*
  • Austin, TX*
  • Briars Cliff, NY
  • Champaign, IL*
  • Charleston, SC
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Cincinnati, OH*
  • Cleveland, OH
  • Dallas, TX*
  • Dayton, OH*
  • Haverhill, MA
  • Herndon, VA
  • Houston, TX
  • Lanett, AL*
  • Lewiston, MT*
  • Lexington, KY*
  • Little Rock. AR*
  • Magnolia, NJ
  • Memphis, TN*
  • Morgantown, WV*
  • New York City, NY*
  • Oklahoma City, OK*
  • Orlando, FL*
  • Phoenix, AZ*
  • Portland, OR
  • Quakertown, PA
  • Saco, ME*
  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • Savannah, GA*
  • St. Albans, VT
  • St. Louis, MO
  • Washington, DC*
  • Wenatchee, WA
  • Wichita, KS*
  • Wilmington, DE*
  • Winston-Salem, NC*
  • Woodbridge, VA*

*Indicates faith component at event(s). If interested in learning more, please contact the US Membership Mobilization team.

Other Ways to Get Involved

Social Media Toolkit

Africa Day is a great chance to get out into our communities and partner with groups on their events, and to amplify your advocacy.

Get involved

Support African-led Growth Opportunities

Sign your name if you believe in an African future shaped by Africans.  

Take action today

Global Africa Day Celebrations

Check out what ONE is up to in other countries on Africa Day.

Find out more