African Americans live in a society where we are castrated and degraded over senseless acts. We are seen as inferior based upon the color of our skin. Over the years we have seen how the African American community has continued to be mistreated even though civil rights activists Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and many others have fought against racism and segregation for us to live in a world where we are not judged by the color of our skin. But even still, America has yet to overcome the exploitation that African Americans have endured since slavery.

In the song "Colors of the Wind," the artist states, “You think the only people who are people are the people who look and think like you.” I truly believe that those who are not fully comfortable in their own skin cannot appreciate the differences between themselves and another. Until one realizes their self- worth and has love for themselves how can one love someone else? I appreciate every race, but I am unapologetic when it comes to myself and my blackness. I refuse to be put in a category that does not fit my character and the way that I uphold myself. I came from Kings & Queens and I enjoy every asset that my ancestors have passed down.

A line from the poem "My Black is Beautiful" states, “Whether celebrated, imitated, exploited or denigrated. Whether natural from inside or skillfully applied, My Black is Beautiful.” My blackness will not be hidden or eliminated. I will say out loud I am Black and I am proud until I take my last breath on this earth.

My brothers and sisters within the black community are not perfect, but who is? Each race as a whole and each individual person have problems that need to be addressed and resolved. There is no need to stereotype an entire race for the actions of certain people. The great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness can’t drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate can’t drive out hate, only love can do that.” America, let’s remember that we may be classified as different races but we are all still a part of one race the Human Race.