Why Do Some Avoid Calling Someone 'Black'?
There is an underlying tension and misunderstanding in modern discourse about racial identity, particularly when it comes to the use of certain terms. One common sentiment is that people are hesitant to outright use the term 'Black' to describe someone for fear of inflicting harm or perpetuating stereotypes. However, this reluctance often stems from broader issues of sensitivity, cultural barriers, and a need to address racial inequality.
The Roots of Terminology Change
In the late 1980s, Reverend Jesse Jackson championed the term 'African American' during his press conferences. This term was adopted as a response to more pejorative terms like 'colored' or simply 'black,' which carried negative connotations. By the 1990s, the term 'Black' began to be seen as a term reclaimed by the community, used with pride and as a source of identity. Yet, this shift hasn't always been smooth. Many white individuals, myself included, have struggled with what feels like a rapidly changing and confusing set of terminologies.
The Importance of Racial Identity
Many black Americans view their racial identity as an essential part of their self-expression and experience. It's common for them to embrace the term 'Black' as a source of pride and connection to their heritage. Denying the importance of racial identity by saying, 'I don’t define people by their skin color' or 'No one is really Black or white,' erases this identity and undermines the experiences of many black individuals. When we dismiss racial identity, we also fail to acknowledge the unique struggles that black people face, which are deeply rooted in systemic racism and discrimination.
White Fragility and Its Consequences
The discomfort and defensiveness that some white people exhibit when faced with discussions about race can be linked to a phenomenon known as 'white fragility.' White privilege often leads to a sense of vulnerability when confronted with racism and discrimination, making it difficult for individuals to engage in constructive dialogue on these issues. This resistance to acknowledging racial realities can have far-reaching negative consequences, as it hinders collective progress in reducing racial inequalities.
The Evolution of Politically Correct Terminology
The terminology regarding race has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Terms like 'people of color' were introduced to create a more inclusive and sensitive way of referring to individuals with non-white racial identities. However, these terms too have faced criticism and scrutiny. The evolution of terminology reflects a society in constant reflection and adaptation, acknowledging the importance of change and the need to be more inclusive.
The Human Factor: Melanin and Commonalities
Melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, is not as complex as it might seem. There are three main types of melanin—eumelanin, pheomelanin, and neuromelanin—each contributing to the different hues of skin. While genetically and ratio-wise melanin varies, it serves as a reminder of our common humanity. Despite our differences in appearance, we all share a fundamental similarity: our humanity.
As a society, we must embrace our differences while acknowledging our shared humanity. This means treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their racial or ethnic background. The respectful thing is to call people what they want to be called, and if you make a mistake, apologize and correct yourself. Asking for and respecting someone's preferred terminology is a simple yet powerful act of inclusivity.
It's crucial to listen to black individuals and accept their perspective on how they want to be identified and treated. By doing so, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive society. Let's strive to address these issues with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to change.