Do African Americans Really Want to Be Called That?

The question of how to refer to African Americans is a complex and often emotionally charged topic in the United States. Different generations and individuals have varying opinions on the terminology used to describe African Americans. This article explores the nuances of these attitudes and the reasons behind the different preferences.

Generational Views and Controversies

As a 50-something individual with substantial experience in university board and senior administrative consulting, I can reflect on the changing attitudes over the decades. Thirty years ago, there was significant controversy over the term African American. The younger generation was embracing it, while many older individuals expressed frustration and confusion.

During those years, I observed that many black African students in the United States and Western Europe struggled to understand and accept the sudden change in terminology. The backlash was not only from black individuals but also from non-black groups who mocked the shift, questioning the logic and necessity of the change.

Historical Context and Terminology Evolution

The evolution of terminology used to describe African Americans is deeply rooted in historical and social contexts. The term African American gained traction in the 1980s and 1990s, partly due to the civil rights movement and the push for cultural and racial acknowledgment. However, the term Black had been widely used and often stigmatized in earlier generations, leading to a sense of resistance.

While many other hyphenated American groups are based on their countries of origin (like Scottish Americans, Norwegian Americans, or Japanese Americans), there is less differentiation based on the continent of origin. This discrepancy became more pronounced when the term African American was introduced, as it grouped people from a vast and diverse continent under one term.

Personal Perspectives and Preferences

It is important to recognize that not all African Americans hold the same views. Some people, like myself, find the term African American highly problematic. The vast expanse of the African continent and its diverse peoples and cultures are often overlooked by such a blanket term.

Those who are frustrated with the term often express anger at the oversimplification of an entire continent. African countries like Egypt, for example, are sometimes excluded from the term, and there are also debates about whether African-born whites should be included. The term lacks specificity and fails to recognize the historical, cultural, and geographical diversity of the people it describes.

Individual Identity and Ancestry

Some African Americans do not have strong opinions about the terminology. Others, like myself, wish to know more about the origins of their ancestors and hope to connect with their roots. The lack of specificity in the term African American makes it difficult to trace and honor the diverse origins of individuals within the broader African American community.

For those who desire to connect with their original identity, finding the precise location where their ancestors were stolen from is a deeply personal and meaningful quest. Such a connection can be an integral part of personal and community identity, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The debate over how to refer to African Americans is ongoing and multifaceted. While African American aims to be inclusive, it often fails to capture the diversity and complexity of the community. Understanding the different perspectives helps foster a more nuanced and empathetic dialogue about terminology and identity.