Social Inequality of the African “American”

Recently current events have occurred in the African American Community that have caused deja vu for those who witnessed the 1960s riots and discrimination. I will admit that I am a government conspiracy theorist so in my opinion that these series of events are no coincidence, especially when the leader of the free world is African American male. The only difference between the 1960’s Jim Crow laws and 2015 is that we have successfully developed organized racism with the United States. Not only can public officials racially profile but also they are able to kill on sight if there is the slightest of threat. The 1960’s were focused on keeping social and racial classes separate to maintain and Anglo culture. 2015 has evolved the segregation by allowing African Americans to protest and march but to keep in mind they can not speak their mind too much because the national guard will step in to control the “gangs.” This has further reinforced the idea of White Privilege and the social hierarchy between Whites and Blacks.

It is apparent that there is a stigma between being Black and being equal amongst whites even after 50 years after the Million Man March. Unfortunately, this connects with the fact that blacks always feel the need to strived higher, be great and do better than the next White man. Or in better words, “work twice as hard to get half as far.” One of my favorite artists Common eloquently states, “ A White mans yes, is a Black man’s maybe.” Not only is this disturbingly true, it is condescending.

AMERICAN culture has successfully painted a picture of false hope of the African American person. Although you can become a part of the Obamas, Oprah’s, or Misty Copeland’s there will always be the overarching label of “Black” before your occupation, while others can be addressed as the 43rd president, or a female broadcaster and producer. The very idea of becoming greater than your peers comes with a lifelong title and responsibility. Not only do “Black Lives Matter” but we are more than merely, Black lives.We are successful and talented because we are capable as a species, not an individual unit.