When you've been one of the most iconic figures in entertainment for more than thirty years, you're bound to come in for a little criticism. In her earlier years, Madonna seemed to positively welcome criticism. Her video for 'Like A Prayer' went down badly with religious leaders because of its imagery, and mocking the crucifixion during one of her stage shows didn't make things any better. Some also feel that her unusual habit of adopting African children amounts to stealing them away from their native countries, too.
What cannot be doubted, though, is Madonna's commitment to charity, and especially African charities. She personally funded the opening of a children's hospital in Malawi, in addition to ten schools in the same country. That isn't her only charitable interest either; she also opened the 'Ray of Light' Foundation in the late 1990s, with a focus on promoting equal rights and women's issues around the globe.