Why are black people, called African American? Options

[Kontroll]

I never really liked the term African American, first of all because its just an easy way out instead of calling a person black. Because saying some one is black is closely related to racism, some how.

Technically all people who come from Africa aren't black. If you're Egyptian and you live in America, what are you?

Another problem is that if you're born in the US and you're black, then you're not at all African American. That term only denotes that you previously resided in Africa and moved to the US.

Please discuss to further my knowledge and understanding. Thank you. Oh, and if there is already a topic about this, then close this one. Thank you.

[Comptine]

the reason why many people think the term black is racist is because using the color of a person's race can become racist. for blacks and whites, it's already part of everyday vocabulary. even the two races themselves accept the terms. however, using a color to refer someone's race can become racist in other areas. it's racist to call an asian person yellow or native americans red. the problem is that color as a identify is a risky title that varies from race to race.

african-american is just a term to describe a group of people whose ANCESTORS were from the sub-saharan part of africa.

i'm asian-american but i was born here. just like african-american, the term asian-american describes where my family was from. not necessarily that i was born in asia.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_american

african-american and other hypenated americans sprung up when people wanted to describe themselves more than just americans. the first term is usually about their ancestry, not necessarily their previous country/region.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyphenated_Americans

it changes from person to person. some african-americans don't like being called black or being labeled back. the term 'black' brings us back to waybackwhen - when all someone saw was someone's skin color.

nevertheless, the terms black and white has ingrained into our vocabulary. the best we can do is be careful to whom we use the terms to. some african-americans don't care about the term 'black' and other's do.

[*mishyerr*]

I'm not exactly sure why some "African-Americans" get offended when other races call them black. or "nigger." I'm against using the word 'nigger,' but I think it's stupid when blacks are like "ONLY WE CAN CALL OURSELVES NIGGAZ, WE AIN'T GONNA TAKE IT FROM SOME WHITE PEOPLE!"

I guess when people are trying to be polite and cause the least amount of damage possible, they use the term "African American" because it is the nicest way. :D

[Kontroll]

But it's racist when they say we cant say that to them because we're white. Is that not racism? I submit taht it is.

[*WHIMSICAL 0NE*]

^ It's not always one sided. If they throw race back at you then they're just as bad in my opinion.

But I could understand where "black" and "white" aren't politically correct. There are different races, so it's not like we call someone "brown" or "orange" (Idk, orange if you have a bad self tan or something, w/e, just an example).

My first thought on reading the topic title was because their ancestors came from Africa. I guess that means that if I really wanted to I could call myself European-America even though you don't really hear that. A lot of african-americans can trace their roots back to Africa, whereas "white" people tend to be a mix of many different races (so they can't trace their roots back to ONE country)

[Joss-eh-lime]

I think its because all black people in America have ancestors who were born in Africa.

I don't mind the term black..but some people try to stay away from using it.

[Kontroll]

There aren't different races. We're all human. It's the human race. I don't know why people don't understand that.

If you have a Labrador and a Collie are they different species? No they are variations within a kind. Still one species. Why is it so hard to understand that people are all one race?

I understand that their ancestors are from Africa, but my ancestors are from Canada, France, Ireland and what not. You're not going to call me an Irish, French Canadian American. Are you? I really think that people should just loosen up and treat their skin color as a blessing instead of a burden.

If I call some one a 'Nigga' why is that so bad? It shouldn't be. It's just a synonym of black. It's not my fault some one abused it and now we all have to pay for it. I call my friend a 'Spick' all the time.

It's like substituting crap for feces. Right?

I'm white. You're Asian, black or whatever. It's not something we should get our knickers in a bunch.

[*mishyerr*]

Hmm, you may see it that way, but others don't.

I remember this video we watched in English about how a lot of the black community was against reading Huck Finn, even though that book is AGAINST slavery. The important thing about that film (no matter how stupid) was that there were people who were still hurt by the use of nigger in the book.

By using Af. Am., people can avoid tense feelings.

I agree, it would be nice if we could all just shrug off our skin color and not give a shit. I don't care if people call me 'chink' or whatever. shrug*

[hi-C]

I never really liked the term African American, first of all because its just an easy way out instead of calling a person black. Because saying some one is black is closely related to racism, some how.

Technically all people who come from Africa aren't black. If you're Egyptian and you live in America, what are you?

Another problem is that if you're born in the US and you're black, then you're not at all African American. That term only denotes that you previously resided in Africa and moved to the US.

Please discuss to further my knowledge and understanding. Thank you. Oh, and if there is already a topic about this, then close this one. Thank you.

I don't think "Black" is a racist term. I'm Black, and I prefer it over "African-American," for much of the reason that you stated above. My ancestors may have been from Africa, but I'm not. And what you said about Egyptians goes for white South Africans. They have more of a claim on "African American" that I do. (Also, I'm not quite sure about this, but it seems to me, since Egypt identifies more with the Arab world than the African world, that they would be called "Arab American.)

I remember this video we watched in English about how a lot of the black community was against reading Huck Finn, even though that book is AGAINST slavery. The important thing about that film (no matter how stupid) was that there were people who were still hurt by the use of nigger in the book.

There is such a thing as being anti-slavery but pro-racism. Take Uncle Tom's Cabin for instance. Stowe was decidedly against slavery, but look at her characters: the hero and heroine were two Black people light enough to pass for white, and the darkest character was also the most subservient one.

[Kontroll]

Hmm, you may see it that way, but others don't.

I remember this video we watched in English about how a lot of the black community was against reading Huck Finn, even though that book is AGAINST slavery. The important thing about that film (no matter how stupid) was that there were people who were still hurt by the use of nigger in the book.

By using Af. Am., people can avoid tense feelings.

I agree, it would be nice if we could all just shrug off our skin color and not give a shit. I don't care if people call me 'chink' or whatever. shrug*

But by creating new words and definitions aren't we just segregating them more?

The problem is that we are so offended by things. I'm not saying the solution is to get rid of the term 'African American' but we need to stop being so afraid to say what we want, as long as it's not hurtful. If I call some one 'black' is that being hurtful? No. Then why is it politically incorrect for me to say it?

[pandamonium]

thats a good question. its because you still want to be considered by your nationality. Like they call me Fil-Am because i am filipino american. But i was born in america so really am just american. But when people are describing you they cant just call you american they have to say your nationality.

Think about it. When someone asks "what is he?" and you say hes "american" it doesnt provide that much information about the person. So i think that African-American is used to describe someone due to their ethnicity. Your heritage is african so you are an african american just as im a filipino american.

And its funny, cause in my culture usually when you say American they think of some white guy. I dont really get it right now but yea.

[Kontroll]

thats a good question. its because you still want to be considered by your nationality. Like they call me Fil-Am because i am filipino american. But i was born in america so really am just american. But when people are describing you they cant just call you american they have to say your nationality.

Think about it. When someone asks "what is he?" and you say hes "american" it doesnt provide that much information about the person. So i think that African-American is used to describe someone due to their ethnicity. Your heritage is african so you are an african american just as im a filipino american.

And its funny, cause in my culture usually when you say American they think of some white guy. I dont really get it right now but yea.

Right, I get what you're saying about the lack of information. But, let me ask this. Just because he is black, does that mean he if from Africa? What if he was born in Jamaica? Wouldn't calling him African American therefore be categorizing him in the wrong place?

[pandamonium]

Right, I get what you're saying about the lack of information. But, let me ask this. Just because he is black, does that mean he if from Africa? What if he was born in Jamaica? Wouldn't calling him African American therefore be categorizing him in the wrong place?

ah ya got me lol. i dont know what to say to that, i never even thought of that. i guess its just mainstream ignorance (if that makes sense?) what i mean is that one person says african american, everybody thinks african american.

just like when people say "race" instead of nationality or ethnicity when infact all humans are a part of a race.

[Kontroll]

I'm just trying to make a point here.

We should be living in a place where we shouldn't be afraid to say what we want to. The United States wasn't formed on "freedom of speech only when it doesn't offend your neighbors." I should be able to call anyone anything I want. I mean, when it's not used in a demeaning way, then it can't be wrong. Right?

[hi-C]

But by creating new words and definitions aren't we just segregating them more?

The problem is that we are so offended by things. I'm not saying the solution is to get rid of the term 'African American' but we need to stop being so afraid to say what we want, as long as it's not hurtful. If I call some one 'black' is that being hurtful? No. Then why is it politically incorrect for me to say it?

"Black" isn't politically incorrect. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference.

[Kontroll]

"Black" isn't politically incorrect. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference.

But considering there are so many people, how are we to know who thinks what? People just generalize and just go with political correctness.

[viugiufgjhfhjfhg...]

I'm just trying to make a point here.

We should be living in a place where we shouldn't be afraid to say what we want to. The United States wasn't formed on "freedom of speech only when it doesn't offend your neighbors." I should be able to call anyone anything I want. I mean, when it's not used in a demeaning way, then it can't be wrong. Right?

Theorically you are totally correct; however in practice your personal freedom ends where other people's begin. So there's always a kind of tacit agreement with regards to what can be said about certain topics in order to not cause unwanted or unnecessary controversy.

Of course, this can be easily exploited under the premise of political correctness; but it seems that the general tendence in communications is towards a bigger liberalization of contents as long as subjects that were treated as taboo topics are being talked about more openly.

This would imply that eventually the euphemisms coined along the way will fade and possibly disappear, but that's a strictly hypothetical conjecture.

[Kontroll]

Theorically you are totally correct; however in practice your personal freedom ends where other people's begin. So there's always a kind of tacit agreement with regards to what can be said about certain topics in order to not cause unwanted or unnecessary controversy.

Of course, this can be easily exploited under the premise of political correctness; but it seems that the general tendence in communications is towards a bigger liberalization of contents as long as subjects that were treated as taboo topics are being talked about more openly.

This would imply that eventually the euphemisms coined along the way will fade and possibly disappear, but that's a strictly hypothetical conjecture.

Yeah, absolutely. I know what you're talking about. I guess it really only does work in theory, but hey, it can't hurt to try and make a point and then make something happen from that, right?

I just wish people weren't so tense about the whole race issue, cause it really isn't as in depth as everyone says it is in regards to actual races and not racism.

Well, if there is only one race, the human race, shouldn't the word 'Racism' be changed?

[viugiufgjhfhjfhg...]

Yeah, absolutely. I know what you're talking about. I guess it really only does work in theory, but hey, it can't hurt to try and make a point and then make something happen from that, right?

I just wish people weren't so tense about the whole race issue, cause it really isn't as in depth as everyone says it is in regards to actual races and not racism.

Well, if there is only one race, the human race, shouldn't the word 'Racism' be changed?

The concept of racism as we understand it would have to disappear, that is for sure.

What I tried to say in my previous post, though, is that this limitations in language do tend to disappear as long as the people using them become more open in the moral sense. For example, in Spain joking about catholicism is not as frowned upon as it was 60 years ago; however in some places you're still going to get nasty looks if you joke about the Monarchy.

[Kontroll]

The concept of racism as we understand it would have to disappear, that is for sure.

What I tried to say in my previous post, though, is that this limitations in language do tend to disappear as long as the people using them become more open in the moral sense. For example, in Spain joking about catholicism is not as frowned upon as it was 60 years ago; however in some places you're still going to get nasty looks if you joke about the Monarchy.

Oh, yeah. Again. I totally understand. You're basically saying what I am, but ten times better. Haha.

You get my point though right? That's all I'm trying to get across. If I can reach one person then I'm happy. That's what lifes all about. Spreadin' the word, ma man.

[viugiufgjhfhjfhg...]

Oh, yeah. Again. I totally understand. You're basically saying what I am, but ten times better. Haha.

You get my point though right? That's all I'm trying to get across. If I can reach one person then I'm happy. That's what lifes all about. Spreadin' the word, ma man.

Yep, I do. I was only making sure we're talking about the same thing xD.

[espressive]

There aren't different races. We're all human. It's the human race. I don't know why people don't understand that.

If you have a Labrador and a Collie are they different species? No they are variations within a kind. Still one species. Why is it so hard to understand that people are all one race?

I understand that their ancestors are from Africa, but my ancestors are from Canada, France, Ireland and what not. You're not going to call me an Irish, French Canadian American. Are you? I really think that people should just loosen up and treat their skin color as a blessing instead of a burden.

So I guess you could say that we are all race, technically, but "black" or "African American" can be used as description, just as if you're describing somebody's hair color/eye color...etc. In that sense, I don't really see anything wrong with being more specific within a broad subject. Is it necessary bad that we'll call a collie a "collie" instead of a "dog"? No. So what's wrong with calling people "African Americans"?

I tend to steer away from saying "blacks", because I just feel bad when I say it, but "African Americans" is so long. I don't know, I guess with the whole US History and just how the term "blacks" has been used makes me feel like it's a deragatory word.

[*Frénésie*]

Probably because majority, if not all black people came from Africa. In my opinion, an Egyptian would be called "African American" because he / she is from Africa. African doesn't mean black.

I live in Europe but I've never been called an "African European". I'm European and it ends there.
Although, I don't get why nobody says "White American". Only the minorities have their race attached to 'American'. Ironic.

Anyway, yes, there is the human race BUT in the human race, there are also different races. If you get what I mean. We aren't the same. We've got different cultures, and many more.
I don't think identifying someone by his / her race should be considered as racism.

[Kontroll]

Probably because majority, if not all black people came from Africa. In my opinion, an Egyptian would be called "African American" because he / she is from Africa. African doesn't mean black.

I live in Europe but I've never been called an "African European". I'm European and it ends there.
Although, I don't get why nobody says "White American". Only the minorities have their race attached to 'American'. Ironic.

Anyway, yes, there is the human race BUT in the human race, there are also different races. If you get what I mean. We aren't the same. We've got different cultures, and many more.
I don't think identifying someone by his / her race should be considered as racism.

I don't know if you read my post earlier on in the discussion, but there is only one race. There are variations within a kind. Therefore you have whites, blacks, latin, asians, and whatnot. We aren't different races. Yes, we have different cultures but actually it is our cultures that make us different for the most part. THere is only a .012% difference between all humans. That's very small. The reason poeple look different is because of where they are from. If you breed one group of people with the same group of people, you therefore will get that group of people. Hence, why there is so much of a certain type of people.

We are all human, so that is a species, or race as we call it. There are just variations, that's all.

[viugiufgjhfhjfhg...]

Anyway, yes, there is the human race BUT in the human race, there are also different races. If you get what I mean. We aren't the same. We've got different cultures, and many more.
I don't think identifying someone by his / her race should be considered as racism.

The difference remains in whether you use the term race as a scientific concept, or else as a way to define a social group that share X number of exclusive characteristics.

Scientists have been abandoning the idea of biologically distinct races amongst humans since the early years of the XXth century, and talk about the black/asian/etc.., population and/or cline. Presently, the concept of races within the human specie has more to do with cultural studies than with scientific evidence.

[*Frénésie*]

I don't know if you read my post earlier on in the discussion, but there is only one race. There are variations within a kind. Therefore you have whites, blacks, latin, asians, and whatnot. We aren't different races. Yes, we have different cultures but actually it is our cultures that make us different for the most part. THere is only a .012% difference between all humans. That's very small. The reason poeple look different is because of where they are from. If you breed one group of people with the same group of people, you therefore will get that group of people. Hence, why there is so much of a certain type of people.

We are all human, so that is a species, or race as we call it. There are just variations, that's all.

We are talking about the same thing, or almost. There is the human race, no doubt. But in the human race, there are variations, exactly like you said. 'Variation' is considered as another race within the human race. Jesus, I'm having an headache.
We are the same if you talk about us eating, drinking, farting, laughing and such. But our cultures, our lifestyle, our beliefs make us different from eachother. We are human, yes, but in a way, we are different. That's what makes the world what it is; diversity.

I find it to be ridiculous when people say: we're the same, we eat, fart and our blood is red. Seriously, that isn't all.

Let me put it this way; in the univers / whatever you want, there is only 1 HUMAN race. True. But within the human race, there are Blacks / Asians / Whites / many more. It's not a terrible thing, that's the way it is. There isn't only ONE race. I highly disagree with that.

The difference remains in whether you use the term race as a scientific concept, or else as a way to define a social group that share X number of exclusive characteristics.

Scientists have been abandoning the idea of biologically distinct races amongst humans since the early years of the XXth century, and talk about the black/asian/etc.., population and/or cline.

It's all about social, baby. I don't really care about scientists and their theories. Like you said;

Presently, the concept of races within the human specie has more to do with cultural studies than with scientific evidence

[viugiufgjhfhjfhg...]

I think we're on different pages here. I was arguing against that specific concept D: .

But the thing is, the term race can't really be applied to make distinctions amongst humans because there's no sufficient scientific basis to prove there are different races within the whole human group.

There is a Black population, a Caucasian population, etc... under the Human race. However there isn't a Black, Caucasian, etc... "sub race" in the biological sense of the word; hence why the usage of the concept of population/cline is more correct in relation to the empirical evidence provided by science.

[kimmytree]

If I call some one a 'Nigga' why is that so bad? It shouldn't be. It's just a synonym of black. It's not my fault some one abused it and now we all have to pay for it. I call my friend a 'Spick' all the time.

Okay... so then that would give people the right to call me a Nazi then, right? (Me being East German) Ummm no. I dont think it works like that. Just because its a "synonym", or "someone abused it", still doesnt mean that its okay to use.

[Kontroll]

Okay... so then that would give people the right to call me a Nazi then, right? (Me being East German) Ummm no. I dont think it works like that. Just because its a "synonym", or "someone abused it", still doesnt mean that its okay to use.

I call some one I know who is German a Nazi all the time. I call my black friend a 'nigga' all the time. Same with another girl I know. I call Jeremy a Spik. I guess it's just the outlook on life you have. I live how I want. I don't take most things seriously. If I have a problem with it, I just tell myself that it's not a big deal. And it's not. It's just because you have racist groups like the KKK and the Nazi's.

[hi-C]

The United States wasn't formed on "freedom of speech only when it doesn't offend your neighbors."

Yes, it was. Why do you think people can sue for libel and slander?

[*Monochrome.*]

I call Jeremy a Spik.

Its spelled "spic" by the way.

[demolished]

I dont see the terms as racist. I wouldnt even consider the words to be close to "racist" or some way. To me, it's just a normal word, not bad.

[Kontroll]

Its spelled "spic" by the way.

[kimmytree]

I call some one I know who is German a Nazi all the time. I call my black friend a 'nigga' all the time. Same with another girl I know. I call Jeremy a Spik. I guess it's just the outlook on life you have. I live how I want. I don't take most things seriously. If I have a problem with it, I just tell myself that it's not a big deal. And it's not. It's just because you have racist groups like the KKK and the Nazi's.

That IS racist. Well, maybe racist isnt the word for it, but its offending. The first and last time I ever called someone a nigger, she and about 5 of her friends chased me down and beat the crap out of me.

So you think it's okay to call a German a Nazi? When you call someone a Nazi, its like associating them with the MILLIONS of people that died as a result of Hitler. What if the person had family die as a result of the Nazi party? My grandmother lost all 4 of her grandparents, her father, and several other family members due to them. I know if anyone ever called me a Nazi, I'd make sure they'd never be able to say it again.

Your right, you can live how you want - but its wrong.

[Kontroll]

That IS racist. Well, maybe racist isnt the word for it, but its offending. The first and last time I ever called someone a nigger, she and about 5 of her friends chased me down and beat the crap out of me.

So you think it's okay to call a German a Nazi? When you call someone a Nazi, its like associating them with the MILLIONS of people that died as a result of Hitler. What if the person had family die as a result of the Nazi party? My grandmother lost all 4 of her grandparents, her father, and several other family members due to them. I know if anyone ever called me a Nazi, I'd make sure they'd never be able to say it again.

Your right, you can live how you want - but its wrong.

Well, that's a sad story. It's not my fault that some one did that. I'm sorry people hold grudges instead of letting things go. Well, as I stated before...As long as it's not used in a demeaning way then how can it be bad? Dude, how do you know it's wrong? How do you know you're not wrong? Ever think of that?

[demolished]

I guess she mean that ... people should be more considered and aware of the term's meanings rather than just using the word out of our sake.

i could be wrong, just a thought.

[Kontroll]

I guess she mean that ... people should be more considered and aware of the term's meanings rather than just using the word out of our sake.

i could be wrong, just a thought.

I'm not stating that I should be able to run around on the streets and shout out random 'racial terms'. No. I'm simply saying that I should be able to go up to some black dude and be like, 'Hey, what's up nigga?' If they can say that to themselves, and we can't say it to them, then that's pretty racist. Proclaiming that one race can't call another race something else. We get called cracker and whitey all the time, but once the word 'nigger' comes up in the air, guns start going off. Why is that?

[*Frénésie*]

I think we're on different pages here. I was arguing against that specific concept D: .

Haha. Grr.

But the thing is, the term race can't really be applied to make distinctions amongst humans because there's no sufficient scientific basis to prove there are different races within the whole human group.

There is a Black population, a Caucasian population, etc... under the Human race. However there isn't a Black, Caucasian, etc... "sub race" in the biological sense of the word; hence why the usage of the concept of population/cline is more correct in relation to the empirical evidence provided by science.

But there is! Under the human race, there are races. <= me trying to be annoying.
Anyway, I get your point. But how about this:

Under the animal race, there are different 'species' and under the 'species', there are different races. Ok, I'm thinking of the 'dog race' here. Why can't that apply to humans? Be kind to explain that. Merci beaucoup.

[*Monochrome.*]

Sorry,I just had to pointout when people mispell insults directed to my people.

[viugiufgjhfhjfhg...]

Haha. Grr.
But there is! Under the human race, there are races. <= me trying to be annoying.
Anyway, I get your point. But how about this:

Under the animal race, there are different 'species' and under the 'species', there are different races. Ok, I'm thinking of the 'dog race' here. Why can't that apply to humans? Be kind to explain that. Merci beaucoup.

Nyeh =P

Well, under that premise (and the current scientific opinion on the matter) humans belong to a single subspecie of the homo sapiens sapiens. The current division of humans in "races" seems to have more to do with cultural and social differences than with biological traits (which would be the case of dogs).

I hope I am not confusing you as I did with myself when typing this x(.

[*Frénésie*]

Oh my God. I actually understood that. I'm going crazy! I still think that we're on the same page or maybe I'm going nuts.

[viugiufgjhfhjfhg...]

.... D:

The "races" division amongst humans can be applied, although not in a biological sense but in a social /cultural one?

I mean, I agree that it can be done but I don't think it should since there's no empirical base to it. >.<

[me1issaaaa]

Black people get offended when they're called black? That's like white people saying, "I'm CAUCASIAN, bitchhh." Stupid.

[Kontroll]

Black people get offended when they're called black? That's like white people saying, "I'm CAUCASIAN, bitchhh." Stupid.

Haha. Yeah, exactly. I don't know if black people get offended when they are called black, but it's just the princliple of my being able to say what I want. Not to be afraid of saying what I want, cause that seems a little brainwashing. Don't ya think?

I don't know...to me it seems that instead of making a law, they just imply that it's wrong. Maybe not calling some one black, but just in general. Like the word 'retard' is no longer acceptable. But retard literally means 'slow'. So, I don't know what's wrong with it?

[HakunaMatata]

Black people get offended when they're called black? That's like white people saying, "I'm CAUCASIAN, bitchhh." Stupid.

I've heard of both races getting offended by the terms "Black" and "White". They simply don't want to be definied by a color (or, if you want to be all technical about it, non-colors). As stated many times before, it's just a matter of preference. Either, imo, is fine.

[Kontroll]

I've heard of both races getting offended by the terms "Black" and "White". They simply don't want to be definied by a color (or, if you want to be all technical about it, non-colors). As stated many times before, it's just a matter of preference. Either, imo, is fine.

Really? You've met white people who have been offended by the term 'white'? Weird.

And I love your signature. About the teenagers and alcohol. Cause it's so true.

[Aerjae]

Egyptians in American are called Egyptians. I don't think the term African American is bad. At least you have the right to be know as an American as well instead of just African. It's a better name than of what they used to call them back then. uhm. negros. < There! I don't like THAT word. The spanish. shesh.... I'm spanish! aahh!

[Kontroll]

Egyptians in American are called Egyptians. I don't think the term African American is bad. At least you have the right to be know as an American as well instead of just African. It's a better name than of what they used to call them back then. uhm. negros. < There! I don't like THAT word. The spanish. shesh.... I'm spanish! aahh!

Well the point we are making is that Egyptians live in Africa. They aren't black, but mostly influenced by the Arab culture. But none the less, they live in Africa. So, therefore if they lived in America, they would be African American.

We use the term African American to describe some ones nationality by their color. Is it not so that white people can be African American? The majority of South Africans are white.

[kimmytree]

^ There's nothing wrong with considering yourself an Egyptian American, because she is able to trace her heritage that closely. Same with South Africans. Would a French person living in France refer to themself as a European? No, they would be specific and call themselves French.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't alot of blacks living here who are from Africa have a hard time tracing back their origin to a specific African country, mostly due to slavery? Thats such a shame. When someone cant trace their heritage any further, then I think you should consider yourself to be "from whatever continent I'm from" American.

For myself, I'm lucky enough to be able to half way trace my heritage back to mostly German, and my father is a German citizen, so I consider myself to be a German American. But if I couldnt narrow down my exact country of origin, then I would consider myself a European American, which is what most whites are.

I guess she mean that ... people should be more considered and aware of the term's meanings rather than just using the word out of our sake.

i could be wrong, just a thought.

Yes... that's exactly what I meant. Thanks.

[*Uronacid*]

Hmm, you may see it that way, but others don't.

I remember this video we watched in English about how a lot of the black community was against reading Huck Finn, even though that book is AGAINST slavery. The important thing about that film (no matter how stupid) was that there were people who were still hurt by the use of nigger in the book.

By using Af. Am., people can avoid tense feelings.

I agree, it would be nice if we could all just shrug off our skin color and not give a shit. I don't care if people call me 'chink' or whatever. shrug*

So, I mean... you said you don't care, but can I call you the forum "chink" from now on?

[show_me]

josh is an idiot
Image removed. - tic tac.

[sweetangel2128]

People don't like the term "black" because your going by the person's color and they are people like veryone else, same blood just a different skin color...they prefer to just be called "people".

[kimmytree]

^ But, the people I know who are like that still insist calling caucasians white. It should be a double standard. Them being called black is no different than calling someone white. I'm not offended at all by being referred to as being a white person, because not all white people are Americans, or Europeans. Russians are white. Some Puerto Ricans and some other hispanic races closely resemble white people. What if you accidentally call a black person an African American, if they're really Jamacian? Or from Trinidad? They would be offended, and I think they would have every right to be.

[Kontroll]

I have a question then... Is it possible for a white person to be African American?

Yes, it is. Dave Matthews is from South America. Therefore African American.

But we stereotype people when we call them African American because we assume they are from an African heritage. Not always the case. So, is it right to call some one African American out of ignorance?

[me1issaaaa]

^ Yeah I guess, if they're from Africa, then why wouldn't they be?

[Kontroll]

^ Yeah I guess, if they're from Africa, then why wouldn't they be?

Exactly my point. If they are from Africa. Most black people who live in America aren't from Africa. They weren't born there. They are Americans.

[me1issaaaa]

True dat. I've come to find out that a bunch are from other places, like Jamaica and the Caribbean and whatnot. I've only met a handful with origins from Africa. I know a couple of white families from South Africa [: so yeah, I guess they are African American.

[sweetangel2128]

^ But, the people I know who are like that still insist calling caucasians white. It should be a double standard. Them being called black is no different than calling someone white. I'm not offended at all by being referred to as being a white person, because not all white people are Americans, or Europeans. Russians are white. Some Puerto Ricans and some other hispanic races closely resemble white people. What if you accidentally call a black person an African American, if they're really Jamacian? Or from Trinidad? They would be offended, and I think they would have every right to be.

Well, I think it's because black people were used for slavery long ago so it's a little bit different. But the thing is I really dont' enjoy being called white myself...I am a human like everyone else so yeah.

[Kontroll]

Well, I think it's because black people were used for slavery long ago so it's a little bit different. But the thing is I really dont' enjoy being called white myself...I am a human like everyone else so yeah.

Oh, my God. I've never heard a white person complain because people call him 'White.'

Ha ha. Truly made my day. Thank you.

[sweetangel2128]

Oh, my God. I've never heard a white person complain because people call him 'White.'

Ha ha. Truly made my day. Thank you.

No problem, glad I could make you laugh

[ReggieM]

there are so many negative connatations with the word black itself what civilized person would want to be called that. Come on now black is the color of darkness and evil while white is basically purity and junk i prefer african american becuase it seems like it has less weight on it than black does. When you say african american you arent thinking (prolly) maybe those ghetto loud kids at your school. But just dark skin people in general


oh yea i wouldnt want to be called black cuz i dont want to hear "darkness" every five seconds from class mates. Is it or is it not very attractive to be actually "black" as in the color. Most african americans would rather be darker than lighter anyday.

[sweetangel2128]

there are so many negative connatations with the word black itself what civilized person would want to be called that. Come on now black is the color of darkness and evil while white is basically purity and junk i prefer african american becuase it seems like it has less weight on it than black does. When you say african american you arent thinking (prolly) maybe those ghetto loud kids at your school. But just dark skin people in general
oh yea i wouldnt want to be called black cuz i dont want to hear "darkness" every five seconds from class mates. Is it or is it not very attractive to be actually "black" as in the color. Most african americans would rather be darker than lighter anyday.

That's why I kinda think African American is a better term.

[Kontroll]

there are so many negative connatations with the word black itself what civilized person would want to be called that. Come on now black is the color of darkness and evil while white is basically purity and junk i prefer african american becuase it seems like it has less weight on it than black does. When you say african american you arent thinking (prolly) maybe those ghetto loud kids at your school. But just dark skin people in general
oh yea i wouldnt want to be called black cuz i dont want to hear "darkness" every five seconds from class mates. Is it or is it not very attractive to be actually "black" as in the color. Most african americans would rather be darker than lighter anyday.

I'm sorry that you have to deal with your color. I know it must be a burden. If you want to be called African American, call me Irish-French Canadian-American. Thank you.

It's just ridiculous. It's stereotypical. Everything we were trying to get away from. Useless rhetoric.

[ReggieM]

idk it only bothers me when people generalize. LIKE OHMEGEE LOOK THERES BLACK GUYS OVER THERE, would you want to be associated with some negative stereotype that u arent apart of? You can find something else to call them i dont really care but SOMETIMES it seems offensive.

Other races dont really deal with it alot cuz its not much of a problem, there are no threatining stereotypes associated with the word"white".

Im tottally fine with being called "black" but people can abuse everything and they have abused this word. African american is to long to abuse lol. For me hearing african-american means breaking away from the stereotypes of our day.



oh wait so you are saying we should only DISCRIMINATE on skin color by calling everyone with dark skin black instead of using the term african-american.?

[*My Cinderella.*]

I guess that's just how society taught us to address. Most time we don't want to offend anyone by saying Black so we just say African American, which can also offend them.

[HakunaMatata]

I'm sorry that you have to deal with your color. I know it must be a burden. If you want to be called African American, call me Irish-French Canadian-American. Thank you.

It's just ridiculous. It's stereotypical. Everything we were trying to get away from. Useless rhetoric.

May you explain to me exactly what's stereotypical? Most African-Americans I know prefer the word Black, anyway.

[Kontroll]

May you explain to me exactly what's stereotypical? Most African-Americans I know prefer the word Black, anyway.

That's awesome. It's stereotypical because we're fitting a group of people into this boundary and it's not always necessarily so.

[kimmytree]

^ Well, someone has to be described some how. If I'm the only "white" girl standing with a group of people of another race, how else would I be reffered to as? Like if someone was talking about me with someone else, they would refer to me as like "the white girl over there". Or Caucasian, whatever. Instead of that, reffering to one as being "light skinned" just sounds weird to me. So what's wrong with calling a Caucasian white, or someone black? I dont think its any different that describing someone by their hair color. Like, saying "the guy over there with the long brown hair".

I know if I was talking to someone about a black person, and they were standing where we could see them, I'd tell the person that "its that black girl over there". Nothing racist implied. But what If I referred to her as being African American? What if she isnt? "Black" wouldnt really be offending, at least I hope not, because I wouldnt have to worry about getting her exact country of orgin correct. Same with calling someone white, you wouldnt have to worry about figuring out if they were a European American, a South American - American (lol), a Russian American, ect. ect.

That's awesome. It's stereotypical because we're fitting a group of people into this boundary and it's not always necessarily so.

Then how do you suggest people go about describing a person?

I have a question then... Is it possible for a white person to be African American?

Yes, it is. Dave Matthews is from South America. Therefore African American.

But we stereotype people when we call them African American because we assume they are from an African heritage. Not always the case. So, is it right to call some one African American out of ignorance?

Okay. So if its proper to refer to a black person as being African American, then in return we should refer to whites as European Americans, correct? That seems to be what you're implying. Dave Matthews is white, so then the typical stereotype then for him would be European American instead of White. But Dave Matthews ISNT a European American. He's an African American. So how the hell is someone who just seems him on the street supposed to guess that he's indeed a African instead of European? Thats why we shouldnt have to refer to someone as "African American" or "European American". Its like an offensive guessing game.

[Kontroll]

^ Well, someone has to be described some how. If I'm the only "white" girl standing with a group of people of another race, how else would I be reffered to as? Like if someone was talking about me with someone else, they would refer to me as like "the white girl over there". Or Caucasian, whatever. Instead of that, reffering to one as being "light skinned" just sounds weird to me. So what's wrong with calling a Caucasian white, or someone black? I dont think its any different that describing someone by their hair color. Like, saying "the guy over there with the long brown hair".

I know if I was talking to someone about a black person, and they were standing where we could see them, I'd tell the person that "its that black girl over there". Nothing racist implied. But what If I referred to her as being African American? What if she isnt? "Black" wouldnt really be offending, at least I hope not, because I wouldnt have to worry about getting her exact country of orgin correct. Same with calling someone white, you wouldnt have to worry about figuring out if they were a European American, a South American - American (lol), a Russian American, ect. ect.
Then how do you suggest people go about describing a person?
Okay. So if its proper to refer to a black person as being African American, then in return we should refer to whites as European Americans, correct? That seems to be what you're implying. Dave Matthews is white, so then the typical stereotype then for him would be European American instead of White. But Dave Matthews ISNT a European American. He's an African American. So how the hell is someone who just seems him on the street supposed to guess that he's indeed a African instead of European? Thats why we shouldnt have to refer to someone as "African American" or "European American". Its like an offensive guessing game.

haha, right you are.

[sweetangel2128]

^ Well, someone has to be described some how. If I'm the only "white" girl standing with a group of people of another race, how else would I be reffered to as? Like if someone was talking about me with someone else, they would refer to me as like "the white girl over there". Or Caucasian, whatever. Instead of that, reffering to one as being "light skinned" just sounds weird to me. So what's wrong with calling a Caucasian white, or someone black? I dont think its any different that describing someone by their hair color. Like, saying "the guy over there with the long brown hair".

I know if I was talking to someone about a black person, and they were standing where we could see them, I'd tell the person that "its that black girl over there". Nothing racist implied. But what If I referred to her as being African American? What if she isnt? "Black" wouldnt really be offending, at least I hope not, because I wouldnt have to worry about getting her exact country of orgin correct. Same with calling someone white, you wouldnt have to worry about figuring out if they were a European American, a South American - American (lol), a Russian American, ect. ect.
Then how do you suggest people go about describing a person?
Okay. So if its proper to refer to a black person as being African American, then in return we should refer to whites as European Americans, correct? That seems to be what you're implying. Dave Matthews is white, so then the typical stereotype then for him would be European American instead of White. But Dave Matthews ISNT a European American. He's an African American. So how the hell is someone who just seems him on the street supposed to guess that he's indeed a African instead of European? Thats why we shouldnt have to refer to someone as "African American" or "European American". Its like an offensive guessing game.

Ok answer me this. What if the whole group were white or maybe only black. How would you announce a certain person then since you can't do it upon color?

[kimmytree]

^ Then I guess you would be specific. Like, "the tall girl with blonde hair and a red shirt" Idk.

[Mr. Slowjamz]

i love Dave Chappelle .

[sweetangel2128]

^ Then I guess you would be specific. Like, "the tall girl with blonde hair and a red shirt" Idk.

Still, calling another human black is an insult because they are human no matter there color now if you talking about describing what they are wearing that's different.

[Simba]

"Black" people aren't black.

"Black" people =/= #000000

[kimmytree]

Still, calling another human black is an insult because they are human no matter there color now if you talking about describing what they are wearing that's different.

How is it insulting?

[sweetangel2128]

How is it insulting?

Because they are human and by saying there color you are putting them in catagories.

[kimmytree]

^ I dont see how that's any different than categorizing someone by anything else, like hair color.

I've never known what its like to be in someone of another race's shoes, so I guess it's possible I'm being a little unfair.

[sweetangel2128]

^ I dont see how that's any different than categorizing someone by anything else, like hair color.

I've never known what its like to be in someone of another race's shoes, so I guess it's possible I'm being a little unfair.

Because you are disrespecting them. It's just different, I can't explain and yes your right, your not in their shoes so you can't possibly understand. Plus, they were slaves long ago which could be another reason.

[kimmytree]

Not all blacks were slaves. I definately think its totally wrong to refer to someone as a "negro", but black? Calling someone black is no different than someone reffering to someone as being white.

[sweetangel2128]

Not all blacks were slaves. I definately think its totally wrong to refer to someone as a "negro", but black? Calling someone black is no different than someone reffering to someone as being white.

It's still not right and right there is no difference except the "slavery" thing I mentioned. Your right not everyone were slaves but all them were treated like "poo" on the ground back then. My mom's father before he died was walking down the street of Little Rock, Arkansas and noticed a black person on the other side of the street, refused to cross the same side of the street as that other person...so yeah...

[Kontroll]

It's still not right and right there is no difference except the "slavery" thing I mentioned. Your right not everyone were slaves but all them were treated like "poo" on the ground back then. My mom's father before he died was walking down the street of Little Rock, Arkansas and noticed a black person on the other side of the street, refused to cross the same side of the street as that other person...so yeah...

It's wrong to call some one black? If that's not what you mean, please clarify.

[sweetangel2128]

It's wrong to call some one black? If that's not what you mean, please clarify.

Yes, it's wrong to call the person black unless of course they don't mind being called that but a lot of people are offended by it.

[clarity]

Some Puerto Ricans and some other hispanic races closely resemble white people.

Woah, wtf how do we resemble white people?

[Kontroll]

Yes, it's wrong to call the person black unless of course they don't mind being called that but a lot of people are offended by it.

I saw what you stated earlier.

"Because they are human and by saying there color you are putting them in catagories."

No matter what you call some one they will always be within a category.

How is it wrong to call some body black when their skin color is black? Figuratively.

We're called white, but our skin isn't really white. It's apricot or peach, or whatever. But, it's the closest and easiest color to call us by.

The truth should never be offensive. Especially for you. You're a Christian, you stand by it. It's one of the most important morals a Christian could have.

[sweetangel2128]

I saw what you stated earlier.

"Because they are human and by saying there color you are putting them in catagories."

No matter what you call some one they will always be within a category.

How is it wrong to call some body black when their skin color is black? Figuratively.

We're called white, but our skin isn't really white. It's apricot or peach, or whatever. But, it's the closest and easiest color to call us by.

The truth should never be offensive. Especially for you. You're a Christian, you stand by it. It's one of the most important morals a Christian could have.

It's not really offensive by me but it might be offensive to someone else which is why it's innappropriate. Since you bought my beliefs into it. If it does offend someone and you hurt there feelings then you should stop because God asks us to respect people. And by continuing to call the person "black" or whatever you are disrespecting them.

[ReggieM]

well my skin isnt black end of story. call me something else, if u dont wanna call me african american then describe me some other way.

what if someone was fat and another was skinny how would you describe the fat person?you would say fat,is that offensive? YES.Is it true.YES moral learned today truth hurts everyone is insecure and by calling someone black that increases it.

you obviously dont live in a high population city so u wouldnt expireince the racial diversity i do. ask your grandparents the first thing they think of when hearing the term black, then african american which one sounds like someone you want to have dinner with?

[sweetangel2128]

what if someone was fat and another was skinny how would you describe the fat person?you would say fat,is that offensive? YES.Is it true.YES moral learned today truth hurts everyone is insecure and by calling someone black that increases it.

A VERY good point! Especially, if you live in the South. However, I know it's wrong and I don't live in a big populated city but a rather small one, first of all it's just common sense.

[Kontroll]

well my skin isnt black end of story. call me something else, if u dont wanna call me african american then describe me some other way.

what if someone was fat and another was skinny how would you describe the fat person?you would say fat,is that offensive? YES.Is it true.YES moral learned today truth hurts everyone is insecure and by calling someone black that increases it.

you obviously dont live in a high population city so u wouldnt expireince the racial diversity i do. ask your grandparents the first thing they think of when hearing the term black, then african american which one sounds like someone you want to have dinner with?

I live like 15 minutes from Albany New York. Ha ha. It's very diverse. A lot less white people than black.

What should I call them dark pigmented people?

[sweetangel2128]

What should I call them dark pigmented people?

How about just "people"?

[Kontroll]

How about just "people"?

We have to categorize people some how. Yes he is a person, but how are we to distinguish some one from another when we place everyone on the same plane?

[kimmytree]

Woah, wtf how do we resemble white people?

I know quite a few Puerto Ricans that have light brown hair, and are almost whiter than I am. So if someone didnt know them, they'd automatically assume they were white.

[*mipadi*]

How about just "people"?

Hating others based on race or culture is ignorant—but it's just as ignorant to pretend that race and culture don't exist. We should celebrate, or at least accept, racial and cultural differences, rather than trying to sweep such differences under the rug.

[sweetangel2128]

Hating others based on race or culture is ignorant—but it's just as ignorant to pretend that race and culture don't exist. We should celebrate, or at least accept, racial and cultural differences, rather than trying to sweep such differences under the rug.

I know that but calling someone "black" to a black person is racist.

[*mipadi*]

I know that but calling someone "black" to a black person is racist.

I don't think it's any more racist than calling a Caucasian "white". I think very few black people would be offended.

[Kontroll]

I know that but calling someone "black" to a black person is racist.

You need to finish your statements.

Calling some one black is not racist...It's an observation.

Calling some one black in a derogatory or demeaning way would be racist.

Racism is just ignorance. Simply put.

In reality there are no different races besides the human race. We are just variations within a kind.

If we were different races, we would not be able to reproduce, or at least reproduce correctly without any negative mutations.

The human race in whole is only .012% different. Most differences that you see are based on culture and environment.

For example... When you take a person who is 100% white, and a person that is 50% black...over time you will end up with a white culture because when you multiply the percentages together, the black 'race' slowly decreases from that culture. That is of course those two mate, and then their children mate and such.

It's just a numbers game, and when you have a region with mostly one color, the chances are that that color will populate the area much faster and stronger than the others.

[sweetangel2128]

You need to finish your statements.

Calling some one black is not racist...It's an observation.

Calling some one black in a derogatory or demeaning way would be racist.

Racism is just ignorance. Simply put.

In reality there are no different races besides the human race. We are just variations within a kind.

If we were different races, we would not be able to reproduce, or at least reproduce correctly without any negative mutations.

The human race in whole is only .012% different. Most differences that you see are based on culture and environment.

For example... When you take a person who is 100% white, and a person that is 50% black...over time you will end up with a white culture because when you multiply the percentages together, the black 'race' slowly decreases from that culture. That is of course those two mate, and then their children mate and such.

It's just a numbers game, and when you have a region with mostly one color, the chances are that that color will populate the area much faster and stronger than the others.

Ok since you are not really getting what I mean. I think someone who is in fact "black" as you put it needs to come into this thread and explain why it's wrong.

[kimmytree]

^ Hmm. Well, all of my black friends perfer to be called black. They call each other black, and call Caucasians white.

I guess people who disagree with such terms are out there, but I've never encountered one in real life.

[Simba]

Ok since you are not really getting what I mean. I think someone who is in fact "black" as you put it needs to come into this thread and explain why it's wrong.

If you'd ask me, you seem to be talking as if being "black" is something of a bad thing. That's opinion.

Being "Black" is not bad at all, it's only when humans start stereotyping and can no longer differentiate between the label "black" and a person and start dehumanizing them that there becomes a problem. That's fact.

And I may not be Black, but it doesn't take a Black person to understand this. This could go for any other race.

[sweetangel2128]

If you'd ask me, you seem to be talking as if being "black" is something of a bad thing. That's opinion.

In what way is that seeming like I am saying it's a bad thing? I never said that and I don't think it appears that way. I guess I just have too much respect and caring for other people

[Kontroll]

Ok since you are not really getting what I mean. I think someone who is in fact "black" as you put it needs to come into this thread and explain why it's wrong.

I fully understand what you meant. the word 'black' as a label isn't racist.

Its all how you use it. Demeaning and derogatory would be racist. Stereotyping would be racist.

I'm just using common sense.