I Like to Be Called...

I am writing a paper, possibly my senior thesis, on of all things, what is the difference between African Americans and Black people.  Most would think that the labels are inter-changeable but I would tend to disagree.  We, my class, discussed this topic at great length in class the other day and I was surprised to find that most of them felt that they were just different words used to describe the negro population here in America.

I disagree, when I think of myself I prefer to use the word American because that is what I am.  I was born and raised in America.  I served in the military and consider myself to be very patriotic.  If I had to chose one of those labels to define myself when it comes to color, I would choose African American.  These are my reasons: African Americans are generally members of our society who have jobs and do not rely on Welfare or handouts for their day to day survival.  They tend to be upwardly mobile and understand the value of a good education.  In addition, they do not tend to demoralize themselves as can be seen in those horrible Rap videos that depict women as merely sex objects and the men as gangstas and thugs who act like a life of crime is a good thing, something to aspire to.  African Americans mainly speak English (like we were taught in school) unless they are at home and then they may use Ebonics but at a minimum and they also have traditional names like Carmen, Kayla, Gail and Patricia.  I will never understand for the life of me who would want to name their child after an alcoholic beverage.  By now I am sure that you get the gist of what I am saying.

African Americans can be seen on the news sitting behind the desk bringing you the news story.  Those who are being covered by the news, especially for some sort of criminal activity are usually  Black people.  I know this is true for the city that I live in.  Education is not important but wearing the latest fashion and urban gear is paramont to their existence.  When a little 9 year old girl asked me did my grandson have a Northface coat I was appalled.  She had the where with all to ask me that question like if he did have one then he would be okay.  Something is wrong with this picture.  This same little girl told me she was going to get a grill, I had no idea what she was talking about and when it was finally explained to me all I could think of was what was she even doing watching that crap on television to even be able to see such nonsense let alone want to mess up her face like that. She also wears fake fingernails so that should let you know what the priorities are in that household.

My question for you guys is if someone calls themself and African American do you percieve them as being different from someone who calls themself  a Black person?  I thought of preparing an opinion survey to get feedback from randomly chosen people but I think that this way will prove to be very interesting and informative.  Plus I will reach people from all walks of like and who live in cities all over the United States, not cities that tend to be densely populated urban areas.

Come on guys, help a Sista out...