During the school semester, I try to read at least one book aside from the numerous assigned readings for my classes. This semester I’ve been working on Manning Marable’s biography of Malcolm X (Malcolm X: a Life of Reinvention). Listening to Ogbar speak on his book, Hip Hop Revolution, and subsequently examining hip hop, coincides brilliantly with Marable’s book and his critical examination of Malcolm X. The questions Ogbar raises about authenticity/”realness” and the ways in which hip hop artists adhere to “certain ideals—whether real or imagined” parallels the conflicting responses to the image of Malcom X by the white public and the African American community. In my opinion, images that reflect and/or attempt to define what it means to be Black in America (or, in this context, what it means to a Black male in America) must allow and incorporate many voices. Thus, as the “contested, competitive voices” of male rappers are using art as a medium for which they can construct or reconstruct images of Blackness (and, arguably, black masculinity), they are ultimately responding to and reflecting upon their contextual reality. Ogbar’s discussion on the cover of his book—the DJ Lord album cover—further explores these constructed images in hip hop and establishes their relation to Blackness and Black masculinity. Interestingly, Ogbar references an image of DJ Lord referencing an image of Malcolm X. In Lord’s image, both a reference to and interpretation of the iconic picture of X, he is holding a turn-table (instead of a rifle) and connecting his music and its purpose with, presumably, Black liberation and resistance. As X is holding a rifle for (physical) protection, Lord and other DJs, rappers, and hip hop artists are using their music (holding their turn-tables) for (psychological) protection against racial injustice.
From William Wells Brown to M-1, there is a rich tradition (some would argue an obligation) of using literature and music to not only speak-out against racial injustice but call the African American community to action. However, what is so fascinating to me (and, in my opinion, separates hip-hop and African American literature from other literary and musical genres) is the expectation for Black art to depict a communal/collective image of Blackness. In the context of hip hop, it is depicted via one’s authenticity or how one “keeps it real” (though different rappers have “different understandings of what ‘keeping it real’ means”). As Ogbar points out, the question surrounding Black identity and representation in Black art is not new. It was discussed by Black intellectuals and artists in 1926: how is the Black wo/man to be portrayed in Black art? Should Black art, literature, and music embody individualistic expression or a collective, group expression? Can it do both? In 2012, this question is quite relevant and reveals itself over and over again in public discourse on hip hop and its so-called “negative effects” on Black youth. For me, this is so problematic because it unmistakably simplifies notions of Blackness. During the Q&A, an audience member asks Ogbar, “How does one reconcile 50-Cent and Talib Kweli?” and Ogbar responds that hip hop allows both 50 Cent and Kweli to coexist within the same realm. One does not, and should not, have to have an “either-or” [false dilemma] mentality (read: such a question implies an over-simplified understanding of what it means to be Black in America).
Yet, the question comes up over and over again and it seems to only apply to Black art and artists. I am so uncomfortable when—particularly in the context of examining one’s artistic purpose, identity and expression— certain images (or notions of “real”) are expected/allowed to be the only representation or embodiment of Blackness. This “either-or” fallacy is not limited to [mis]representations of hip hop. It’s often applied when discussing Black film/theater and African American filmmakers (i.e. Spike Lee and Tyler Perry) and African American comedians (i.e. Steve Harvey and Dave Chappelle). One can (and should) critically examine and call into question certain characteristics of “ganster rap” or Tyler Perry’s Madea films because certain elements are extremely problematic. Yet, it’s overwhelmingly frustrating when people dismiss rappers like 50-Cent and Young Jeezy as “buffoons pandering to racial stereotypes” because they (50 and Jeezy) do not adhere to Dubois’s claim that “all art is propaganda and ever must be.” As well, it’s equally frustrating when the media and critics of hip hop, like Bill Cosby, only focus on “ganster” or “club” rap—caricatured as materialistic, violent, misogynistic, and homophobic—as a general representation of African American youth. Nothing annoys me more than arguments that harshly critique hip hop yet fail to recognize that prominent themes in hip hop are a direct reflection of [white] America’s obsession with materialism/consumerism, violence, misogyny, and homophobia.
Monday, April 30, 2012
What Have I Learned?
by Teneka Hudson
In reflection of this semester, I have learned many lessons that I truly believe will carry me far in the life and career ahead of me. I am a student that has been out of school for more than 20 years and decided to go back to school after being “stuck” in a position for many years. My employer is more concerned with the amount of education more so than experience. My AAAS experience has truly given me knowledge power. To learn in depth history about blacks, how they came to America and how they were treated as slaves gives me power to overcome obstacles that seem large but in fact are small. The history of the black race, I believe is even deeper than one semester of information. There is so much that is yet to be told and unfolded in order to help our society understand the “Why” factor about blacks.
There are a lot of black men that are locked up. They do not understand the impact that this has on the families that are missing a son, brother, dad or even granddad that has been taken away from their families to sit in jail every day and miss out on life’s precious moments. There was a story of a black male in jail here in Memphis. He was able to get cell phones, food and drugs. He was so proud of it, that he decided to record himself of video and publicize on Facebook for all to see that he was having a great time in jail. There is definitely something wrong with this picture. He made jail seem like a great place to be. When in fact, he has lost all the rights he had to be a man for his family and for our society. It deeply saddens me to think that he feels that he is in a good place in his life. What ever happened to black pride and strong heritage?
I feel that there should be some type of AAAS class offered to these men in jail. They need to know more about their history. They are lost souls that do not know their true purpose in life. Instead of watching TV, they should be allowed to watch some of the presentations that were listed under our contents section in ecourseware. They need to be informed. They need guidance and wisdom. They need to know that there is more to life that being told what to do all day everyday of their time served. Jail is a serious matter and it is no place to party and advertise for children to see. The video that was placed on Facebook, gives our young black men a sense of hopelessness. They are given misleading information in telling them that jail is a cool place to hang out and smoke dope. This is so far from the truth. How is it possible for these guys to have so much? Is this a way of training their minds to think that life is much easier when you’re in prison. I blame the authorities for allowing so much fun to occur behind bars. They are giving our black men exactly what they want. They are given false hope in telling them that, if you do something bad enough to go to jail then you can go to jail and have a great time. There is something definitely wrong with this picture. There should be some higher powers that need to step in and make some serious changes to our jail facilities.
The question was asked how we can get more people to take the AAAS class when there are so many black people that need this education. I feel that this class would definitely be a good start to making our black race a stronger race in terms of knowing a deeper clarity on the history of black Americans.
I have learned a lot in this class, and I plan to help anyone along the way that is looking for an insight on the blacks and whites that live in today’s society.
In reflection of this semester, I have learned many lessons that I truly believe will carry me far in the life and career ahead of me. I am a student that has been out of school for more than 20 years and decided to go back to school after being “stuck” in a position for many years. My employer is more concerned with the amount of education more so than experience. My AAAS experience has truly given me knowledge power. To learn in depth history about blacks, how they came to America and how they were treated as slaves gives me power to overcome obstacles that seem large but in fact are small. The history of the black race, I believe is even deeper than one semester of information. There is so much that is yet to be told and unfolded in order to help our society understand the “Why” factor about blacks.
There are a lot of black men that are locked up. They do not understand the impact that this has on the families that are missing a son, brother, dad or even granddad that has been taken away from their families to sit in jail every day and miss out on life’s precious moments. There was a story of a black male in jail here in Memphis. He was able to get cell phones, food and drugs. He was so proud of it, that he decided to record himself of video and publicize on Facebook for all to see that he was having a great time in jail. There is definitely something wrong with this picture. He made jail seem like a great place to be. When in fact, he has lost all the rights he had to be a man for his family and for our society. It deeply saddens me to think that he feels that he is in a good place in his life. What ever happened to black pride and strong heritage?
I feel that there should be some type of AAAS class offered to these men in jail. They need to know more about their history. They are lost souls that do not know their true purpose in life. Instead of watching TV, they should be allowed to watch some of the presentations that were listed under our contents section in ecourseware. They need to be informed. They need guidance and wisdom. They need to know that there is more to life that being told what to do all day everyday of their time served. Jail is a serious matter and it is no place to party and advertise for children to see. The video that was placed on Facebook, gives our young black men a sense of hopelessness. They are given misleading information in telling them that jail is a cool place to hang out and smoke dope. This is so far from the truth. How is it possible for these guys to have so much? Is this a way of training their minds to think that life is much easier when you’re in prison. I blame the authorities for allowing so much fun to occur behind bars. They are giving our black men exactly what they want. They are given false hope in telling them that, if you do something bad enough to go to jail then you can go to jail and have a great time. There is something definitely wrong with this picture. There should be some higher powers that need to step in and make some serious changes to our jail facilities.
The question was asked how we can get more people to take the AAAS class when there are so many black people that need this education. I feel that this class would definitely be a good start to making our black race a stronger race in terms of knowing a deeper clarity on the history of black Americans.
I have learned a lot in this class, and I plan to help anyone along the way that is looking for an insight on the blacks and whites that live in today’s society.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Words of Wis(e)dom: Thoughts on Tim Wise’s lecture
One of my favorite aspects of (Tim) Wise’s lecture is when he, like many before him, exposes the contradictions of white America’s “rugged-individualistic” psyche. He details how the United States government has “regularly and consistently intervened on behalf of white America to create wealth” through the Homestead Act in the 1860s and through two housing programs in the 1930s-60s (the Federal Housing Administration and Veterans Home programs). But, it’s interesting how language helps define what constitutes legitimate government intervention in the minds of white America. The way he highlights the role of race and language in constructing these particular images and postitive/negative associations is beyond fascinating (“welfare” versus “nation-building”)—language so subtle, yet profound and extremely effective. I have a great-aunt who periodically goes on rants about welfare and “laziness”; interestingly, she is on “government assistance” (she will quickly correct you: she is not welfare!!!) and completely separates herself and her economic and social situation from those “lazy people” on welfare. The power and effectiveness of race and political rhetoric and language is astounding.
Another brilliant point is Wise’s response to some people’s complaints concerning American slavery and its legacy on the present (“Slavery was a long time ago; get over it”). The most common reaction from [white] individuals, after discovering that I am an African and African American Studies major, is: “Why do you want to learn about their history?” And some ask with genuine sincerity, while others inquire with utter confusion. Yet, regardless of one’s intention when asking such a question, the implication is quite clear (and disturbing): African American history remains on the margins of the collective “American experience” narrative. Usually, the conversation then turns to the topic of slavery, and, without a doubt, the “When are they going to get over it?” comment manages to slip out. And, it’s such a strange, weird question. Tim Wise’s response to such rhetoric is so brilliant and not just because it humors me to imagine the look of outrage and horror on the faces of “Tea Partiers” and Conservative or (as Sarah Palin would say) “real” Americans if confronted with such a response.
Wise, then, accurately asserts that we, as a society, love the past “when it makes us feel good” (although I’m unsure how war and American militarism could make anyone feel “good”). But, yes, perhaps that is true—however, I don’t think it fully explains why some white Americans quickly brush off slavery and cling to notions of patriotism (i.e. vehemently celebrating the 4th of July holiday). Loosely using hooks’ “domination ideology” and theories helps me make sense of it: “Western culture perpetuates myths of domination.” When using and applying this idea to white Americans’ reverence towards the 4th of July holiday, it makes sense to me: it becomes a way for some white Americans to re-imagine themselves as powerful and dominating, and that they, too, share the glory of those who “fought for independence.” Of course, this notion is continuously and consistently perpetuated by American culture, such as the media, social and political institutions, and so on. The 4th of July reflects a collective experience and a collective “American” narrative for some white Americans. Yet, the same white Americans brush off the shared, collective experience of American slavery (a “peculiar institution” of white domination). American slavery is their (African Americans) history. But, I’m not satisfied with thinking that it is because white Americans feel “guilty” about slavery and therefore want to forget about it. That completely ignores the large numbers of white Americans who, consistently, vote against their interests by giving into racial paranoia and fears. That, to me, does not express guilt; on the contrary, it reveals an ever-present determination to maintain white supremacy and further guarantee its presence in American society.
Another brilliant point is Wise’s response to some people’s complaints concerning American slavery and its legacy on the present (“Slavery was a long time ago; get over it”). The most common reaction from [white] individuals, after discovering that I am an African and African American Studies major, is: “Why do you want to learn about their history?” And some ask with genuine sincerity, while others inquire with utter confusion. Yet, regardless of one’s intention when asking such a question, the implication is quite clear (and disturbing): African American history remains on the margins of the collective “American experience” narrative. Usually, the conversation then turns to the topic of slavery, and, without a doubt, the “When are they going to get over it?” comment manages to slip out. And, it’s such a strange, weird question. Tim Wise’s response to such rhetoric is so brilliant and not just because it humors me to imagine the look of outrage and horror on the faces of “Tea Partiers” and Conservative or (as Sarah Palin would say) “real” Americans if confronted with such a response.
Wise, then, accurately asserts that we, as a society, love the past “when it makes us feel good” (although I’m unsure how war and American militarism could make anyone feel “good”). But, yes, perhaps that is true—however, I don’t think it fully explains why some white Americans quickly brush off slavery and cling to notions of patriotism (i.e. vehemently celebrating the 4th of July holiday). Loosely using hooks’ “domination ideology” and theories helps me make sense of it: “Western culture perpetuates myths of domination.” When using and applying this idea to white Americans’ reverence towards the 4th of July holiday, it makes sense to me: it becomes a way for some white Americans to re-imagine themselves as powerful and dominating, and that they, too, share the glory of those who “fought for independence.” Of course, this notion is continuously and consistently perpetuated by American culture, such as the media, social and political institutions, and so on. The 4th of July reflects a collective experience and a collective “American” narrative for some white Americans. Yet, the same white Americans brush off the shared, collective experience of American slavery (a “peculiar institution” of white domination). American slavery is their (African Americans) history. But, I’m not satisfied with thinking that it is because white Americans feel “guilty” about slavery and therefore want to forget about it. That completely ignores the large numbers of white Americans who, consistently, vote against their interests by giving into racial paranoia and fears. That, to me, does not express guilt; on the contrary, it reveals an ever-present determination to maintain white supremacy and further guarantee its presence in American society.
Racism Hides in Plain Sight
By: Kahmeya Lewis
Many black Americans believe racism is basically non-existent because it has never directly happened to them. Because of laws and fear of prosecution, racism has gone into the shadows and underground. Racism waits in the darkness as an unsuspecting black Americans crosses its path and pounces. I believe many black Americans have basically dropped the ball, we have become complacent and lazy about civil rights.
Black Americans basic rights are no longer discriminated against, when you eat where you like without opposition, live where you can afford, and racially date or marry whoever we choose. We have become a culture of individualist; no one ever believes they will be discriminated against until it happens to them directly. As we watch the news and see a young black male shot and killed over his race, we don’t believe it will happen to us, we believe somehow this was an isolated incident. I myself have also been guilty of this. I knew racism existed but for some reason I didn’t think it existed where I lived. I was brought up in a basically white neighborhood and went to a predominantly white school; everyone was open and friendly to everyone. In my naïve mind I believed those people that were discriminated against lived in the wrong place, but my outlook changed at 17.
In high school I played volleyball, most of my teammates were white; I was one of the two blacks on the team. We travelled to Parma to play against them at their school; we were promptly kicking their butts and high fiving each time they were unable to return a play. During the moment of triumph and complete domination over their team, I heard something in my left ear that I couldn’t believe was true. I heard, “Nigger Lovers”…..”Niggers”
In disbelief I turned toward the sound of the voices of hate, in an instant before seeing who was saying such ugliness I believed it must be kids. To my surprise it wasn’t kids at all, it was adults. I was shocked and confused, my eyes zeroed in on an old lady that look like someone’s sweet old grandmother who would be in the kitchen making pies, shouting “NIGGERS” Her face was angry and distorted with hate, I felt ashamed and sad for her. I looked across the net to the home team; they seemed to be in shock also. At the time there were no blacks in this school and everyone knew Parma did not want blacks there. But I never imagined people had such hate in them and over what? Because my skin is darker and that means I’m not good enough? I remember riding the bus back to school and everyone was in silence, it wasn’t the usually laughing and joking. Once we arrived at school my mother was waiting for me in the car, once I got in I told her what had happened. My mother told me, “The word nigger means an ignorant person, so clearly they were the niggers not you” It was that day I think I was introduced to the real world, the difference made strictly on race, and the anger and hatred that existed.
Many black Americans believe racism is basically non-existent because it has never directly happened to them. Because of laws and fear of prosecution, racism has gone into the shadows and underground. Racism waits in the darkness as an unsuspecting black Americans crosses its path and pounces. I believe many black Americans have basically dropped the ball, we have become complacent and lazy about civil rights.
Black Americans basic rights are no longer discriminated against, when you eat where you like without opposition, live where you can afford, and racially date or marry whoever we choose. We have become a culture of individualist; no one ever believes they will be discriminated against until it happens to them directly. As we watch the news and see a young black male shot and killed over his race, we don’t believe it will happen to us, we believe somehow this was an isolated incident. I myself have also been guilty of this. I knew racism existed but for some reason I didn’t think it existed where I lived. I was brought up in a basically white neighborhood and went to a predominantly white school; everyone was open and friendly to everyone. In my naïve mind I believed those people that were discriminated against lived in the wrong place, but my outlook changed at 17.
In high school I played volleyball, most of my teammates were white; I was one of the two blacks on the team. We travelled to Parma to play against them at their school; we were promptly kicking their butts and high fiving each time they were unable to return a play. During the moment of triumph and complete domination over their team, I heard something in my left ear that I couldn’t believe was true. I heard, “Nigger Lovers”…..”Niggers”
In disbelief I turned toward the sound of the voices of hate, in an instant before seeing who was saying such ugliness I believed it must be kids. To my surprise it wasn’t kids at all, it was adults. I was shocked and confused, my eyes zeroed in on an old lady that look like someone’s sweet old grandmother who would be in the kitchen making pies, shouting “NIGGERS” Her face was angry and distorted with hate, I felt ashamed and sad for her. I looked across the net to the home team; they seemed to be in shock also. At the time there were no blacks in this school and everyone knew Parma did not want blacks there. But I never imagined people had such hate in them and over what? Because my skin is darker and that means I’m not good enough? I remember riding the bus back to school and everyone was in silence, it wasn’t the usually laughing and joking. Once we arrived at school my mother was waiting for me in the car, once I got in I told her what had happened. My mother told me, “The word nigger means an ignorant person, so clearly they were the niggers not you” It was that day I think I was introduced to the real world, the difference made strictly on race, and the anger and hatred that existed.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Slavery, Whippings, and the African American Experience
By Tinisia Branch
A couple of years ago I took my daughter, who is now thirteen, to hear Alvin Poussaint speak at Hutchinson, a private school here in Memphis. The lecture series was called “Facing History and Ourselves”. I was reminded of his lecture when I completed the assignments for Module 3. During his lecture he spoke of the affect that slavery has on African American families today. I found this subject rather mind boggling because slavery happened such a long time ago. It was over and we had to move on as a people. In my mind all I could hear was another version of the phrase “Blame it on the man”. Of course what was done to us during slavery was apprehensible and even unforgivable, but we had to keep our heads in the game. However, I really wanted to hear what Dr. Poussaint had to say.
As I sat there, the beginning of his lecture sounded very familiar. He spoke of slaves meeting, falling in love, marrying, starting families and then being separated. These families were separated and sold off to other plantation owners. Dr. Poussaint also spoke of slaves who were rebellious or tried to escape. These slaves were whipped until the skin on their backs were torn and left with horrible scars. I knew these stories and I was eager to see how Dr.Poussaint was going to tie them into his lecture. He then asked the audience if anyone was ever whipped by their parents or whipped their own children. Dr. Poussaint had my attention.
Of course, I raised my hand, because I had gotten whippings and in turn whipped my children. Yes, I said it, whippings. Good old switch whippings. I got them and turned out to be alright. So I figured my kids would get the same and should be alright also. However, when Dr. Poussaint began to show the similarities between slaves getting whipped and African American children getting whipped I shivered. What I thought was a proper form of punishment quickly turned into a cruel form of punishment. At that moment I began to rethink my childhood and my own children. Did I really suffer from those whippings? Was my mom, the one I will do anything for, wrong? As Dr. Poussaint continued to speak I listened with all ears.
I came to the conclusion that my mom did what she thought was best, and I would do the same. At that point I decided I would continue to whip my children, but it would be my very last resort. I based this decision on what I felt deep inside my heart. My brother is okay and I am okay. Neither of us has ever gotten into trouble, have great work ethic, and we understand the word respect. I felt good about my decision then and I still do today. Dr. Poussaint then touched on the connection between families being separated during slavery and present day single parent homes.
I was so intrigued with this connection. I even came up with my own comparison using modern day terms. During the time of slavery black men were forced to become “baby daddies”. They were not given the choice to stay. If the plantation owner sold them, they had to leave their families. Many of them would go to other plantations and start other families. I don’t believe they started them because they didn’t want or love their previous families. They started these new families because they didn’t expect to see their previous families again. Now let’s jump to 2012. John Doe has five children by five different women and was never married to either woman. Previously, I would have said John Doe was trifling and just plain old nasty. Once Dr. Poussaint finished speaking, I began to rethink my position on this matter. Was “baby daddy” syndrome created during slavery? Could it really be possible that “baby daddy” syndrome was passed on to black men from generation to generation?
There is no way I could really answer these questions. I do know that this all sounded so very surreal, yet the connection could not be ignored. At the time, I had no idea how to handle this new found information. For some reason, I couldn’t process it the way I could process theories in Sociology. Theories in Sociology are very concise. This scientist believes this or that and his or her theory represents what he or she believes. Therefore, you end up with several different theories because everyone has a different opinion. The problem has been none of the theories I have learned could explain the information in Dr. Poussaint’s lecture. Then along came AAAS to the rescue.
I’m not saying that AAAS has miraculously answered all my questions, but it has definitely directed me towards the light. I look at all things African American in a different light. Instead of jumping on the “we shouldn’t do that” bandwagon, I ask why do we that. I realized that Jewish Americans held onto their culture and when we tried to hold on to ours, they stripped it away from us. We were forced to assimilate and lost the majority of our history. We were forced to do things that we would have never done in our original lands. AAAS taught me some very valuable information. However, I am still wondering if there is a theory out there that describes the connection between the slave experience and the current state of African Americans.
A couple of years ago I took my daughter, who is now thirteen, to hear Alvin Poussaint speak at Hutchinson, a private school here in Memphis. The lecture series was called “Facing History and Ourselves”. I was reminded of his lecture when I completed the assignments for Module 3. During his lecture he spoke of the affect that slavery has on African American families today. I found this subject rather mind boggling because slavery happened such a long time ago. It was over and we had to move on as a people. In my mind all I could hear was another version of the phrase “Blame it on the man”. Of course what was done to us during slavery was apprehensible and even unforgivable, but we had to keep our heads in the game. However, I really wanted to hear what Dr. Poussaint had to say.
As I sat there, the beginning of his lecture sounded very familiar. He spoke of slaves meeting, falling in love, marrying, starting families and then being separated. These families were separated and sold off to other plantation owners. Dr. Poussaint also spoke of slaves who were rebellious or tried to escape. These slaves were whipped until the skin on their backs were torn and left with horrible scars. I knew these stories and I was eager to see how Dr.Poussaint was going to tie them into his lecture. He then asked the audience if anyone was ever whipped by their parents or whipped their own children. Dr. Poussaint had my attention.
Of course, I raised my hand, because I had gotten whippings and in turn whipped my children. Yes, I said it, whippings. Good old switch whippings. I got them and turned out to be alright. So I figured my kids would get the same and should be alright also. However, when Dr. Poussaint began to show the similarities between slaves getting whipped and African American children getting whipped I shivered. What I thought was a proper form of punishment quickly turned into a cruel form of punishment. At that moment I began to rethink my childhood and my own children. Did I really suffer from those whippings? Was my mom, the one I will do anything for, wrong? As Dr. Poussaint continued to speak I listened with all ears.
I came to the conclusion that my mom did what she thought was best, and I would do the same. At that point I decided I would continue to whip my children, but it would be my very last resort. I based this decision on what I felt deep inside my heart. My brother is okay and I am okay. Neither of us has ever gotten into trouble, have great work ethic, and we understand the word respect. I felt good about my decision then and I still do today. Dr. Poussaint then touched on the connection between families being separated during slavery and present day single parent homes.
I was so intrigued with this connection. I even came up with my own comparison using modern day terms. During the time of slavery black men were forced to become “baby daddies”. They were not given the choice to stay. If the plantation owner sold them, they had to leave their families. Many of them would go to other plantations and start other families. I don’t believe they started them because they didn’t want or love their previous families. They started these new families because they didn’t expect to see their previous families again. Now let’s jump to 2012. John Doe has five children by five different women and was never married to either woman. Previously, I would have said John Doe was trifling and just plain old nasty. Once Dr. Poussaint finished speaking, I began to rethink my position on this matter. Was “baby daddy” syndrome created during slavery? Could it really be possible that “baby daddy” syndrome was passed on to black men from generation to generation?
There is no way I could really answer these questions. I do know that this all sounded so very surreal, yet the connection could not be ignored. At the time, I had no idea how to handle this new found information. For some reason, I couldn’t process it the way I could process theories in Sociology. Theories in Sociology are very concise. This scientist believes this or that and his or her theory represents what he or she believes. Therefore, you end up with several different theories because everyone has a different opinion. The problem has been none of the theories I have learned could explain the information in Dr. Poussaint’s lecture. Then along came AAAS to the rescue.
I’m not saying that AAAS has miraculously answered all my questions, but it has definitely directed me towards the light. I look at all things African American in a different light. Instead of jumping on the “we shouldn’t do that” bandwagon, I ask why do we that. I realized that Jewish Americans held onto their culture and when we tried to hold on to ours, they stripped it away from us. We were forced to assimilate and lost the majority of our history. We were forced to do things that we would have never done in our original lands. AAAS taught me some very valuable information. However, I am still wondering if there is a theory out there that describes the connection between the slave experience and the current state of African Americans.
Black Women in Society
By: Teneka Hudson
As a black woman in today’s society, I would say that I agree with some aspects of womanism and feminism. There are also many aspects that I disagree with in regard to the topic.
In consideration to how a black woman was treated during slavery in this country, I think about how she was used to make our country so powerful. She was used as a maid/nanny, farmer and the white man’s recreation. As a maid/nanny, she cleaned, cooked and raised her master’s children. She even raised her own children which came secondary to the chores set by her master. She worked in the cotton and rice fields on hot summer days. Even though she was overworked, she still maintained the black beauty that attracted both black and white men. I once owned a shirt that said “When God created the black women, he was just showing off.” I would have to agree with that statement because no matter how bad the condition, the black women maintained her beauty, culture and pride that would empower many generations thereafter.
It deeply saddens me to see black women in today’s society that exploit themselves in the public with no consideration to black history. I sometimes wonder do they know or do they just don’t care. I work in a public place where black women come in the office with hair rollers, hair bonnets for sleeping, sleeping clothes, head scarfs and poor hygiene. They dress inappropriately revealing all of the assets that make them so beautiful. They leave nothing to a man’s imagination. They hunt men when they are not designed to hunt. They talk about why it is so hard to find a good man. They have children by different men and then then they rely on the court system to make the black men pay for their loss of respect for themselves. The court system is a new and improved form of a master. If a woman would follow the rules set by the creator and get married before sex or at least childbearing, I feel that their chances of a healthy fatherhood would last longer and give children the black father experience they deserve. Black women are very powerful creatures, but they misuse it and underutilize their god given power in today’s society. It is clear to me that the slave masters recognized the power of black women many years ago. They used their power to accomplish all of the great things that made them rich that they were not capable of accomplishing on their own.
It is true that there are a lot of educated black women that have attended college and obtained successful careers. I have a high respect for them. I have worked with a lot of educated black and white women. It is my belief that sometimes a black woman in a leadership role can be her own demise, if her insecurities out way the leadership role. I believe that this situation is due to the fact that they have forgotten their heritage or feel that they don’t owe anyone for their hard work and accomplishments. My belief is that a woman especially a black woman in leadership should always assist in helping another black woman reach her full potential. Most races empower within the race but the black race is weak in this area. I wonder what would happen if the black race would do more to empower within.
Womanism VS feminism is really very similar in that women deserve equal rights. They work hard to accomplish the same success as men. In my opinion, there are boundaries that women should not overstep. I feel that in order to know those boundaries, a woman must seek the knowledge of the Holy Bible and know that their purpose in life was set a long time ago by our creature, Lord, God Almighty.
As a black woman in today’s society, I would say that I agree with some aspects of womanism and feminism. There are also many aspects that I disagree with in regard to the topic.
In consideration to how a black woman was treated during slavery in this country, I think about how she was used to make our country so powerful. She was used as a maid/nanny, farmer and the white man’s recreation. As a maid/nanny, she cleaned, cooked and raised her master’s children. She even raised her own children which came secondary to the chores set by her master. She worked in the cotton and rice fields on hot summer days. Even though she was overworked, she still maintained the black beauty that attracted both black and white men. I once owned a shirt that said “When God created the black women, he was just showing off.” I would have to agree with that statement because no matter how bad the condition, the black women maintained her beauty, culture and pride that would empower many generations thereafter.
It deeply saddens me to see black women in today’s society that exploit themselves in the public with no consideration to black history. I sometimes wonder do they know or do they just don’t care. I work in a public place where black women come in the office with hair rollers, hair bonnets for sleeping, sleeping clothes, head scarfs and poor hygiene. They dress inappropriately revealing all of the assets that make them so beautiful. They leave nothing to a man’s imagination. They hunt men when they are not designed to hunt. They talk about why it is so hard to find a good man. They have children by different men and then then they rely on the court system to make the black men pay for their loss of respect for themselves. The court system is a new and improved form of a master. If a woman would follow the rules set by the creator and get married before sex or at least childbearing, I feel that their chances of a healthy fatherhood would last longer and give children the black father experience they deserve. Black women are very powerful creatures, but they misuse it and underutilize their god given power in today’s society. It is clear to me that the slave masters recognized the power of black women many years ago. They used their power to accomplish all of the great things that made them rich that they were not capable of accomplishing on their own.
It is true that there are a lot of educated black women that have attended college and obtained successful careers. I have a high respect for them. I have worked with a lot of educated black and white women. It is my belief that sometimes a black woman in a leadership role can be her own demise, if her insecurities out way the leadership role. I believe that this situation is due to the fact that they have forgotten their heritage or feel that they don’t owe anyone for their hard work and accomplishments. My belief is that a woman especially a black woman in leadership should always assist in helping another black woman reach her full potential. Most races empower within the race but the black race is weak in this area. I wonder what would happen if the black race would do more to empower within.
Womanism VS feminism is really very similar in that women deserve equal rights. They work hard to accomplish the same success as men. In my opinion, there are boundaries that women should not overstep. I feel that in order to know those boundaries, a woman must seek the knowledge of the Holy Bible and know that their purpose in life was set a long time ago by our creature, Lord, God Almighty.
Should I be fighting for the freedom of my race or the freedom of my gender?
by Terina White
I understand the need for a black feminist movement. I will admit I still don’t fully get the terms womanist or womanism. The definitions, scope, goals and ethics are all ambiguous and have changed meaning over the years, but I believe I get the nature of their goals. I don’t really have an opposition to black feminist or womanist. I look at it as it is; That there are several different areas of black life that possibly need to be taken apart and examined at a deeper level by those compassionate enough to dedicate themselves to that area. I think about people who work to advance adult Black men’s literacy, or work to decrease homelessness in the black community. I think these things are similar to women seeing a need within the black community and working to fix it. Therefore, it is a necessary group. My own personal passion just doesn’t lie in the feminist movement. My passion lies in dealing with the larger struggle. My fear with black feminist though is that they often seem to look at themselves as separate from black men and I think this is a dangerous way of thinking. We don’t ever need to look at ourselves as separate. We need to see ourselves as a community who needs to strengthen itself by strengthening EVERYONE in the community, not just the men and not just the women.
Another thing I thought I would comment on from the lecture by Sonia Gipson Rankin is how she comments on how feminism is sometimes inaccurately seen as male bashing. I personally see this behavior amongst black feminist all over the internet. I don’t like it and it is one aspect of black feminism that I don’t agree with. I don’t like it when black men bash black women, and I don’t like it when black women do it either. So, my only suspicion with black feminism is just in making sure it doesn’t do more damage than it does good. I recently read a book called Disintegration by Eugene Robinson and after reading it I fully understand that any further breakdown of our "racial solidarity" would ensure that we never rise from our current state.
I understand the need for a black feminist movement. I will admit I still don’t fully get the terms womanist or womanism. The definitions, scope, goals and ethics are all ambiguous and have changed meaning over the years, but I believe I get the nature of their goals. I don’t really have an opposition to black feminist or womanist. I look at it as it is; That there are several different areas of black life that possibly need to be taken apart and examined at a deeper level by those compassionate enough to dedicate themselves to that area. I think about people who work to advance adult Black men’s literacy, or work to decrease homelessness in the black community. I think these things are similar to women seeing a need within the black community and working to fix it. Therefore, it is a necessary group. My own personal passion just doesn’t lie in the feminist movement. My passion lies in dealing with the larger struggle. My fear with black feminist though is that they often seem to look at themselves as separate from black men and I think this is a dangerous way of thinking. We don’t ever need to look at ourselves as separate. We need to see ourselves as a community who needs to strengthen itself by strengthening EVERYONE in the community, not just the men and not just the women.
Another thing I thought I would comment on from the lecture by Sonia Gipson Rankin is how she comments on how feminism is sometimes inaccurately seen as male bashing. I personally see this behavior amongst black feminist all over the internet. I don’t like it and it is one aspect of black feminism that I don’t agree with. I don’t like it when black men bash black women, and I don’t like it when black women do it either. So, my only suspicion with black feminism is just in making sure it doesn’t do more damage than it does good. I recently read a book called Disintegration by Eugene Robinson and after reading it I fully understand that any further breakdown of our "racial solidarity" would ensure that we never rise from our current state.
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