Reflection on my Studies

Below is a reflection from one of the students in the Intro Class of AAAS

by Zerriyan Jackson

During my study this week on the definition of African American studies I learned about my purpose as an African American. I understand that as an African American it is our purpose to uplift one another and maintain our heritage. Our history is so rich with stories of struggle, survival, greatness, and sacrifice and victories. Our pioneers made many sacrifices for us, such as the right to education so that we are able to teach each other. Our purpose is to educate each other of our heritage and culture. That is very important because we are engulfed with European culture and history and only filtered selective information about African American History. I personally liked Carlene Young’s definition of African American Studies. The individuals that seek higher education have gained the tools and knowledge to pass on more knowledge to their peers and the generation behind them. Therefore, African Americans have the responsibility to go back to their communities and enrich them with better resources to build themselves up. Especially blacks, who grew up in the “hood”, all too often seek a better life and opportunities for themselves and tend to forget to go back and impart some of that knowledge that they set out to discover. I think that more interest in African American studies would happen if blacks took more pride in their heritage; which is tough because some black kids are teased for their dark skin color or “nappy” hair texture. And that alone can cripple a child’s spirit because they have no control over their genetic make-up. Our history books do not emphasize African Americans and their importance to the United States and I believe that if more blacks demand a change for more acknowledgment in history books there could be a better sense of understanding of blacks and who they are.