16 Shades of Black VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1 May 2013 | Page 11

Free Your Mind of the "Illusion"

WHAT YOU KNOW DEPENDS ON WHAT YOU KNOW

I remember being placed in a social class, and given a cognitional name based upon the color of my skin, or a perception that people may have. In many instances, I have been called a “Nigger” or “Negro” because of my skin pigmentation. Initially, I am shocked, but I do not pay attention to these comments. However, I do become aware of a much greater issue, which is when I am called these names not only once, but several of times. Not only have I been called these names in America, but in other places of the world as well.

When creating the poem, “Nigga” I remember being questioned, “Why would I choose to call a poem by that name, it is very derogatory and inappropriate?" Lightheartedly, I would reply, “Why not?” Apparently, it is appropriate to say this word or use it as a stereotype to classify a group of people in today’s society.

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