A misconception of race topic

I will preface by saying I will be using the term “black”, “black people”, etc., for reference purposes only.

Are you aware that there are more black people outside of the United States than within?

Are you aware of the fact that there is no “black race” nor such thing as “black culture?

Some of you are puzzled at this point, so let me break down a few things for you:

·         United States culture does have a huge impact on how black people around the world are perceived, but it is not representative of all black people around the world; not even close

·         Contrary to popular beliefs, skin color does not make a culture

·         Identifying oneself as “black’ is a western concept and popularized and solidified into western culture

·         Most people with black skin around the world identify themselves by their kingdom, their region, or their people. For example: in Nigeria there are Yoruba people, Hausa people, Igbo people, etc. (there are many more, this is just an example)

Are you aware that within the small population of black people in the United States, that there Is not one culture either? The diversity is vast because it is a large country with many different influences.

Are things clearer now?

Do not expect you know anything about a person based upon their skin color, do not expect someone with the same skin color to have anything in common with you. Do not put people in boxes that fit your narrative, reject stereotypes, and labels that are designed to make you comfortable but not the other person.

Changing your mindset over this simple thing could open your world to people, experiences, and life that you have never experienced.

I am not saying you have to change, but I am saying that you cannot expect people to conform to your misguided perceptions, and not get push back; we all want to be valued, we all want out authentic story to be told.

Dr Flavius Akerele III

The ETeam