An Apologetic for AAAS

By Regis Reeves

Although I appreciate the personal (“what’s in it for me”) aspects of majoring in African, African American Studies, I think it’s bigger the than the personal benefits. Looking at the question in context of the entire reading and lectures, I see a greater need and greater call for a greater America. As stated in the textbook, education should give us the opportunity to be the best Americans or citizens that one can be regardless of race. African American influence and impact in America is so vital and profound that no one can overlook it or deny it. Whether we are becoming community leaders, employers or politicians, it is important that we are keenly familiar with the people whom we are leading and interacting with. We see clearly in many of the politicians of today that they have no education regarding the African and African American experience within America. I see this not only in white politicians and employment gatekeepers, but in African Americans as well. I hope that we see the personal benefits of employability, support from the department, how it makes our resume` appear and all the personal benefits as “icing on the cake”. The whole of why African and African American Study is vital to all Americans is far beyond my employment opportunities. If all we see is the “what’s in it for me,” then we cannot get angry at a Tea Party or a Newt Gingrich or Condoleezza Rice and Herman Cain. Because if you not educated to the African American experience, then you cannot speak to the African American experience or act in a reasonable and intelligent way towards it.