Black in America: An Essay
America suffers from a severe case of apathy and delusion. We’ve sacrificed much to move this country forward. Blackness is seen as the antithesis of American values. Our existence is an uncomfortable reminder of a past that they so desperately wish to erase. Black people have been on the front lines of some of the most powerful movements in American history. Other groups have benefited from our work. We’ve never been a selfish people. Our inherently loving nature has quelled our rightful vengeance. Our anger and pain have been used to make the country a better place for our children. This love, though tested, has always been on display.
On the eve of America’s 250th celebration, I choose to celebrate a different America. One that was built by the tired hands of our ancestors. One that stood defiantly against tyranny and refused to be second-class citizens. I’m encouraged by our journey through the muck and mire that has been America. We’re the definition of fortitude and strength. We’ve turned water into wine in the midst of the struggle. With our feet planted firmly in the same soil that holds the blood, sweat, and tears of our ancestors, we’re still standing: immovable and proud.
In America’s 250th year, we watched the Voting Rights Act be gutted. Maps were redrawn hours after the decision to remove Black voting power. Black women have been shamefully ousted in corporate America. There were marches in the streets after ICE gunned down American citizens in Minnesota. People have been tossed into cages because of their status, while AI data centers are contaminating our natural resources. We’re at war with Iran for the hundredth time, while many are struggling to make ends meet. This nation has conducted illegal wars across the globe. I suggest revisiting what greatness means as these are all symptoms of a dying republic unable to reckon with the reality of what it has always been. No amount of gaslighting from this current administration would make anyone with critical thinking see otherwise. Black people are no strangers to the ills of this society. The rest of the country, who’ve been asleep, are now just seeing what we’ve been seeing all along.
May this piece be a love letter to you, to us, as we navigate these uncomfortable times. White delusion has been fueling their hatred since the dawn of this republic. We were not considered citizens in 1776, yet the effects of their attacks have remained long after we’ve taken our freedom. Let no one be fooled; they didn’t give us anything; we demanded it through our relentless resolve.
Tomorrow there will be celebrations. There will be dancing. There will be singing. They will bask in the glory of the red, white, and blue. The flag will be flown high, so that all can see. I ask that we take time to remember those who’ve come before us and paid the ultimate sacrifice, so that we may continue this fight for equality. Independence Day will be a day of quiet reflection for me.
To be Black in America is not easy. It’s the furthest thing from it. Our Blackness is a beautiful reminder of who we are and what we’ve survived. Thriving is a choice that we must make daily. Our independence hasn’t come without its battle scars. May we rest in our Blackness with pride and fervor. America has no choice but to make room because we aren’t going anywhere.