Many people discuss slavery, Jim Crow, Native American persecution, etc., but never offer suggestions on healing. They seem to revel in the fact that these terrible events happened. Is the aim to promote hatred? We are all aware of past atrocities. What people need is encouragement in healing. I am referring specifically to people like Henry Louis Gates.
I am aware of slavery, but it does not form my identity. My ancestors arrived in the Port of Charleston. I know that my African ancestors were once slaves, but I don't dwell on it. It is apart of my history, but so are many things. I see myself as an African person, but also European, Asian, Native American, etc. I am a human being, first. All human history is my history! We should begin to view history as ours; rather that mine or theirs.
I am aware of slavery, but it does not form my identity. My ancestors arrived in the Port of Charleston. I know that my African ancestors were once slaves, but I don't dwell on it. It is apart of my history, but so are many things. I see myself as an African person, but also European, Asian, Native American, etc. I am a human being, first. All human history is my history! We should begin to view history as ours; rather that mine or theirs.