Identity and Heritage: Understanding Black Ethnic Americans

The term 'black ethnic Americans' refers to individuals who have both African heritage and are citizens or residents of the United States. The question of whether black ethnic Americans are 'black' is often a matter of personal and cultural identity, rooted in a complex intersection of historical, social, and political factors.

Criteria for African Identity

The African Union, through its Sixth Region, provides a clear criterion for determining who is African. According to this organization, a person is considered African if they:

Have African origins.

Are outside the continent.

Wish to contribute to the development and unity of the continent and the African Union.

This simple set of criteria aims to clarify identity and reduce debate. However, for many individuals, particularly within the African-American community, this is just one facet of their identity. Personal and cultural affiliations often play a more significant role in defining one's sense of heritage and belonging.

Shallow Identities

Some individuals reduce the complexity of ethnic identity to mere skin tone. This reductionist approach overlooks the depth and richness of cultural heritage and personal history. As one writer humorously noted:

No they aren’t. And whites aren’t whites. White and black are just names not the color people are. Like in chess: Neither set of pieces is black or white but we still call them black and white. And just like humans if you break those pieces you would see that they inside they are the same. But don’t do it with those pieces – it looks like a fairly good chess set.

This analogy highlights how skin color, while significant, is only superficial and does not define the individual fully. Handling cultural and ethnic identity with the same care and respect as a chess piece can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation.

Personal Identity

For some black ethnic Americans, their identity goes beyond skin color or geographic location. As one anecdote humorously illustrates, skin tone can even be a source of humor:

Count all the Blacks in this photo. Most people miss me in it. But you should get the point. Some of us American Blacks or Black Americans are lighter than others. But so are Native Africans for this point.

This highlights the diversity within the African-American community, emphasizing that identity is not solely based on skin tone but encompasses a range of experiences and backgrounds.

Conclusion

Understanding the identity and heritage of black ethnic Americans requires acknowledging the complexity of their cultural and historical backgrounds. It is important to recognize that personal and cultural affiliations play a significant role in shaping one's sense of identity. Skin color and skin tone should not be the sole determinants of one's identity. Embracing the richness and diversity of the African-American community fosters greater mutual understanding and respect.