To Be Black and American

What is it to be black and American? For years this conundrum has plagued the minds of so many Americans, more specifically of African descent. Complicated is the process of analysis in this matter, and detrimental is its conclusion to the vitality of this culture’s social strength. Is it possible to be optimistic regarding the position and placement of the black group in America today without being naïve? Or should the more cynical, pessimistic view of the black American be gleamed upon and toiled over? Determining whether hope or despair is the appropriate response is the key.
In Toni Morrison’s essay titled “A Slow Walk of Trees,” the issue is presented – the interpretation of the black man, his role and position as of now. For many persons it is terribly tiring to consider what it means to be black and American today. The culmination of media portrayal, the bemusement by white America of blacks, the exploitation internally and externally of the community to ...