There is a growing deal of debate and opinions forming over the idea of reparations for slavery. There is no doubt that slavery was indeed a horrible thing that should never have happened, and that it caused countless numbers of African Americans to suffer needlessly. However, there are questions that remain: should we give reparations, and, are reparations a good idea? While reparations might make the receivers a bit happier it does not make up for the trauma and suffering that slavery caused. The first text that I am going to discuss is BLACKout by Jill Robinson. This story focuses on two characters of African American decent, Alana and Nigel. In the story a reparations bill has been passed issuing African Americans who can prove that they are of American-born African decent and have ties to slavery on both the maternal and paternal side 40 million dollars to repay them for their ancestor’s enslavement. This notion outrages the West Indian population living in the surrounding areas such as the Jamaicans, Trinidadians etc. Nigel expresses his distaste for the eligibility requirements and says that they are trying to make African Americans prove that they are “American” enough and “Black” enough. The jilted African Americans who are not receiving the reparations turn to boycott and strikes to show their disdain. There is a riot in Harlem where some prominent black leaders come to speak out about the benefits of reparations and to get the black community to end the strike and return to work. One of the men, Harpton states that it will unite the black community, but it seems to be doing just the opposite. In the end, fed up with what is being referred to as a blackout, Nigel decides to leave America and live in a country where he is an outsider, therefore being treated like one will be justified. He invited Alana to go with him but she refuses because life in America is the only life she has ever known. The second work I am going to use is an article by Michael He titled “Should We Pay Reparations for Slavery?”. He is not in favor of reparations. He states that they should never occur for several reasons. He says first that in no way does money repay people for the pain and suffering that was caused by slavery and that anyone who has been a slave should be outraged that their descendants would be willing to receive monetary gain for their agony. Secondly he begins to name some of the discrepancies and problems faced when deciding just who should receive the reparations and where the money should come from. He questions the racial requirements, and who should be responsible for the money used to pay the reparations. He also talks about the white Americans who supported the abolishment of slavery, the whites who never owned slaves and the ones who gave their life in the Civil War to outlaw it. He states that he thinks that the idea for reparations comes from a good place; the need to recognize the horrors of slavery and make amends, but he also says that money is simply not the answer. He says that giving away money is like “allowing the guilty to buy back their consciences, sort of a forgive and forget method. He says that we should never allow this to happen and allow the world to forget about the horrors of slavery. These two texts offer both similar and opposing views on the issue of reparations. While both authors seem to believe that reparations are not a good idea, their reasons as to why this is are different. In BLACKout the main opposition to reparations is one of division. With all the stipulations put on who is eligible to receive the money, it would divide the black community and drive a wedge between blacks based simply on their ancestral ties to slavery and whether or not they descended from American-born blacks. Robinson seems to imply that all blacks living in the United States are African Americans wether or not their ancestors were born here or not. She implies that when you force black people to assess their American-ness and their black-ness that it causes an issue of race between people of the same skin color. Where race issues are usually a matter of black versus white, it then becomes and issue of black versus black. This is a very strong argument and she makes a good point. Putting that many restrictions on who could receive the money would cause problems in the black community, especially if people began to strike their jobs. Then, not only would those people not be getting the money from the reparations, but they would also be at risk of becoming unemployed. All this just to prove that they deserve the money just as much as the others. The idea that one set of African Americans are more deserving just because their ancestors were slaves is tricky. This is a topic that He brings up in his essay. He states that the African Americans living today never experienced slavery themselves, and receiving money to atone for their ancestors suffering does not make anything better. His article shows that he is a staunch opponent of reparations. Though he is opposed to reparations, I find his article filled with deep understanding of the issue of slavery and a strong willingness to make amends for the horrors suffered by black slaves. I like his ideas because he presents his reasons for opposing this idea. The idea that monetary gain will never atone for the suffering of the slaves is a good one. While the receivers of the money would be appeased, will they ever look back and say that it was all worth it? He doesn’t seem to think so. While it would show that the world is willing to admit the wrong and make amends, throwing money at the problem is not the answer. Also, He did a good job by bringing up the issues about who would be responsible for paying the money. I like his point about taxing Americans in order to get the funds. He shows that if we tax all Americans, that would include the unskilled labor force of immigrants living here now that had nothing to do with owning slaves. Should they be responsible for paying? Both these articles seem to be against reparations, and they both present good reasons for their ideas. Robinson makes a great point in bringing up the divide it would cause between members of the black community and He makes a good point with all of his reasons. All the issues brought up by these two people are relevant and pertinent to the issue of reparations. Upon reading these two texts and pondering the views expressed by each person, I have tried to make up my own mind about the issue of reparations. Should America make amends for the injustices of slavery? Yes I think America has to be willing to admit the wrong doings and apologize for the pain and suffering caused by it. However, I do not think that money is the way to go. I do not think that we should support the idea that money is all it takes to remove years of bondage and mistreatment of a race of people. If we do choose to somehow repay or offer African Americans something to show our regret for this mistake, I think it needs to be something deeper than money because money cannot remove the suffering endured by the enslaved African Americans. Yes America desperately needs to make amends somehow for this atrocity, but money is not the answer.
Works Cited
He, Michael. "Should we pay reparations for slavery?." Campus Times. 05 Dec 2002. University of Rochester. 1 Nov 2007
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books, 2004. 231- 42.
Focusing Question: How are American twentysomethings interacting with the rest of the world in a post 9/11 era?
Thesis Statement: While both Friedman and Martin agree that this generation of young Americans is well-informed on current events and global issues, Friedman is condemning of their lack of action and outrage while Martin insists that these same twentysomethings are simply coping in the face of overwhelming political causes.
Summary of Friedman’s Text: In his article in the New York Times, Thomas L. Friedman describes his feelings about the current generation of twentysomethings. He calls them “Generation Q” because he sees them as ‘quiet Americans’ because they quietly and privately pursue their ideological worlds at home and abroad in the midst of a world on edge. Friedman grants that this generation is well-educated, well-informed, and sensitive to current global issues, but feels that they aren’t doing enough to effect a change in these issues. He applauds Generation Q for their activism (such as studying abroad to encounter the rest of the world, and volunteering in Africa), yet claims that this is not enough. Friedman accuses this generation of needing to be outraged at the things going on in the world and in their own country. He believes that, despite knowing the statistics, no one from this generation is demanding that something be done about the failing Social Security system or trying to push new measures against global warming into law. He states that the instant gratification of point-and-click has made this generation lazy—“…they can’t e-mail it in, and an online petition or a mouse click for carbon neutrality won’t cut it.” Friedman claims that this lack of outrage/laziness is lessening the impact this generation could have on the world. In regards to Generation Q’s part in the next election, Friedman says, “The candidates could actually use a good kick in the pants…but where is it going to come from?” Friedman’s entire argument can be summed up in his own words: “America needs a jolt of the idealism, activism, and outrage (it must be in there somewhere) of Generation Q. That’s what twentysomethings are for—to light a fire under the country.”
Summary of Martin’s Text: In her article printed in The American Prospect, Courtney E. Martin claims that Friedman has completely misinterpreted her generation by labeling them Generation Q. She states, “Thomas Friedman has mistaken my generation’s absolute paralysis in the face of so many choices, so many causes, and so much awareness, for a mere quiet.” Martin believes that what Friedman has taken as a lack of outrage is simply purposeful distraction on the part of these twentysomethings. She claims that this generation is not quiet and points to the record number of people studying abroad, volunteering across the globe, participating in “Teach for America”, and studying sociology in an attempt to interact with the rest of the world. She asserts that this “Generation Q” is passionate about the things happening in the world—from global warming to the war in Iraq, but cannot find a suitable avenue for their energies in the face of so many causes. Martin says, “If I read the news today with my heart wide open and my mind engaged, I will be crushed.” She says of the current responses available (writing to representatives, etc.): “None of it promises to be effective, and it certainly won’t pacify my outrage.” So what do these twentysomethings do with their energies in the face of all the wrongs in the world? Martin claims that this generation does its best by choosing careers that they believe will somehow have an impact on society, such as social workers, teachers, and nonprofit workers. Martin’s argument can be summarized in her own words: “My generation knows so much about so much…We are painstakingly composing our Facebook profiles because we…(feel) powerless and unsafe, like the only place to put our energies was inward.”
Analysis of Texts: In our information-obsessed society, we are now more aware of the happenings in the world than ever before. Daily, we hear of conflicts in Darfur and Burma, child soldiers in Nigeria, extreme poverty, and the massive AIDS crisis in Africa. Not to mention IEDs in Iraq and the global search for terrorists. This current generation of twentysomethings is bombarded with this staggering information and, at the same time, the ideals of the 21st century American Dream. What are these informed young-adults supposed to do with all of this? The generation Friedman labels as “much less radical and politically engaged,” Martin defends as having “a sense of being overwhelmed.” Both authors agree that this generation is well-educated and informed, yet they seem to disagree on the obligation of this generation to the rest of the world. The qualities Friedman accuses, Martin defends, yet neither gives anyone any insight into what actions should be taken by this generation. Friedman seems to end with a somewhat judgmental attitude, while Martin ends only with more excuses for the inactivity. I completely understand both authors’ viewpoints, yet I believe each of them should have given this generation some options for appropriate action, rather than leaving the audience feeling guilty or patronized. I believe that by considering each author’s point-of-view, we can find an appropriate course of action. Of course there is a certain amount of responsibility one feels when presented with pressing information. There is also an amount of personal guilt that comes when one cannot find a way to remedy or alleviate the situation. I believe that there is a way for twentysomethings to take action on current issues, to make a difference, and to not feel overwhelmed by the massive number of causes that need to be taken up in the world. I think that this generation should spend some time researching the topics of today, not just skimming headlines and becoming overwhelmed by the negative things. Upon gaining some in-depth knowledge about a few specific issues, one can brainstorm about any relevant measures that could be taken to help the situation. These ideas should not be brilliant in nature, but rather practical, considering the human element in the situation and what feasible ways one can personally get involved. During this process, I am sure that one project or idea will strike a chord. I believe that by devoting their spare time to helping in a specific cause, twentysomethings will impact the world, and not feel so helpless or overwhelmed. One must also realize that change does not happen in sweeping movements, but little-by-little, and that as more people become aware of just how much power they can have by using their spare time, thoughts and situations around the world can be changed by an informed, motivated generation.
Surprising New View: This generation of twentysomethings needs to collectively uncover their outrage at world-wide atrocities, and find some medium to collectively channel it into real, effective ways to alleviate societal wrongs.
Felicia Hall Completed Essay
What's A Twentysomething To Do?
In Charles Johnson’s short story, “Sweet Dreams” we encounter a person who is being outrageously taxed by the government for every dream and daydream they have had over the last year. After reading this short story, I was filled with a sense of gloom that the characters in this fictional world must have also felt. It was as if they had resigned themselves to the oppression of the government. The main character did not even try to fight for lower taxes, but simply paid what the government claimed he owed. This story immediately made me think of the oppressed people around the world, and those who are doing nothing to help. Of course, we know that as citizens of the United States we have many more resources than we could ever need, and, due to the internet, we also know of the plight of the millions of people around the world who are suffering from oppression, both social and physical. Why aren’t we doing anything about it? I pose this question particularly to the current generation of twentysomethings. We’re well-educated and well-informed, yet we do nothing to affect any sort of change. Since 9/11, we have paid more and more attention to world events. We read stories everyday about people that evoke a sense of empathy, fear, and guilt in us. We empathize with their situation, fear that it could someday happen to us, and feel guilty for going about our day like nothing has happened. All of this made me curious: How are American twentysomethings interacting with the rest of the world in a post-9/11 era? I came across two articles on this subject by Thomas Friedman and Courtney Martin. While both Friedman and Martin agree that this generation of young Americans is well-informed on current events and global issues, Friedman is condemning of their lack of action and outrage while Martin insists that these same twentysomethings are simply coping in the face of overwhelming political causes. Let us now look a bit closer at each of these articles.
In his article in the New York Times, Thomas L. Friedman describes his feelings about the current generation of twentysomethings. He calls them “Generation Q” because he sees them as ‘quiet Americans’ because they quietly and privately pursue their ideological worlds at home and abroad in the midst of a world on edge. Friedman grants that this generation is well-educated, well-informed, and sensitive to current global issues, but feels that they aren’t doing enough to effect a change in these issues. He applauds Generation Q for their activism (such as studying abroad to encounter the rest of the world, and volunteering in Africa), yet claims that this is not enough. Friedman accuses this generation of needing to be outraged at the things going on in the world and in their own country. He believes that, despite knowing the statistics, no one from this generation is demanding that something be done about the failing Social Security system or trying to push new measures against global warming into law. He states that the instant gratification of point-and-click has made this generation lazy—“…they can’t e-mail it in, and an online petition or a mouse click for carbon neutrality won’t cut it.” Friedman claims that this lack of outrage/laziness is lessening the impact this generation could have on the world. In regards to Generation Q’s part in the next election, Friedman says, “The candidates could actually use a good kick in the pants…but where is it going to come from?” Friedman’s entire argument can be summed up in his own words: “America needs a jolt of the idealism, activism, and outrage (it must be in there somewhere) of Generation Q. That’s what twentysomethings are for—to light a fire under the country.”
In her article printed in The American Prospect, Courtney E. Martin claims that Friedman has completely misinterpreted her generation by labeling them Generation Q. She states, “Thomas Friedman has mistaken my generation’s absolute paralysis in the face of so many choices, so many causes, and so much awareness, for a mere quiet.” Martin believes that what Friedman has taken as a lack of outrage is simply purposeful distraction on the part of these twentysomethings. She claims that this generation is not quiet and points to the record number of people studying abroad, volunteering across the globe, participating in “Teach for America”, and studying sociology in an attempt to interact with the rest of the world. She asserts that this “Generation Q” is passionate about the things happening in the world—from global warming to the war in Iraq, but cannot find a suitable avenue for their energies in the face of so many causes. Martin says, “If I read the news today with my heart wide open and my mind engaged, I will be crushed.” She says of the current responses available (writing to representatives, etc.): “None of it promises to be effective, and it certainly won’t pacify my outrage.” So what do these twentysomethings do with their energies in the face of all the wrongs in the world? Martin claims that this generation does its best by choosing careers that they believe will somehow have an impact on society, such as social workers, teachers, and nonprofit workers. Martin’s argument can be summarized in her own words: “My generation knows so much about so much…We are painstakingly composing our Facebook profiles because we…(feel) powerless and unsafe, like the only place to put our energies was inward.” So who has rendered the correct verdict?
In our information-obsessed society, we are now more aware of the happenings in the world than ever before. Daily, we hear of conflicts in Darfur and Burma, child soldiers in Nigeria, extreme poverty, and the massive AIDS crisis in Africa. Not to mention IEDs in Iraq and the global search for terrorists. This current generation of twentysomethings is bombarded with this staggering information and, at the same time, the ideals of the 21st century American Dream. What are these informed young-adults supposed to do with all of this? The generation Friedman labels as “much less radical and politically engaged,” Martin defends as having “a sense of being overwhelmed.” Both authors agree that this generation is well-educated and informed, yet they seem to disagree on the obligation of this generation to the rest of the world. The qualities Friedman accuses, Martin defends, yet neither gives anyone any insight into what actions should be taken by this generation. Friedman seems to end with a somewhat judgmental attitude, while Martin ends only with more excuses for the inactivity. I completely understand both authors’ viewpoints, yet I believe each of them should have given this generation some options for appropriate action, rather than leaving the audience feeling guilty or patronized. I believe that by considering each author’s point-of-view, we can find an appropriate course of action. Of course there is a certain amount of responsibility one feels when presented with pressing information. There is also an amount of personal guilt that comes when one cannot find a way to remedy or alleviate the situation. I believe that there is a way for twentysomethings to take action on current issues, to make a difference, and to not feel overwhelmed by the massive number of causes that need to be taken up in the world. I think that this generation should spend some time researching the topics of today, not just skimming headlines and becoming overwhelmed by the negative things. Upon gaining some in-depth knowledge about a few specific issues, one can brainstorm about any relevant measures that could be taken to help the situation. These ideas should not be brilliant in nature, but rather practical, considering the human element in the situation and what feasible ways one can personally get involved. During this process, I am sure that one project or idea will strike a chord. I believe that by devoting their spare time to helping in a specific cause, twentysomethings will impact the world, and not feel so helpless or overwhelmed. One must also realize that change does not happen in sweeping movements, but little-by-little, and that as more people become aware of just how much power they can have by using their spare time, thoughts and situations around the world can be changed by an informed, motivated generation. This generation of twentysomethings needs to collectively uncover their outrage at world-wide atrocities, and find some medium to collectively channel it into real, effective ways to alleviate societal wrongs. In “Sweet Dreams” the tax collector says, “Those who dream always pay the most.” While this may be true, isn’t the eventual outcome of dreaming worth the price?
Works Cited
Friedman, Thomas. “Generation Q.” 10 October 2007. www.nytimes.com/2007/ 1010/opinion/10friedman.html. 26 October 2007.
Martin, Courtney. “Generation Overwhelmed.” 22 October 2007. www.prospect.org/ cs/articles?article=generation_overwhelmed
“Sweet Dreams.” Charles Johnson. Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Sheree R. Thomas. Time Warner Book Group, New York. 2005. 243-248.
1) Focusing Question: How will reparations affect the black community? 2) Thesis: There are pros and cons to African Americans receiving reparations 3a) David Horowitz author of “Ten Reasons Why Reparations for Blacks is a Bad Idea for Blacks - and Racist Too” states that reparations could hurt the African American community more than it would help it. His first point is that one single group is not responsible for slavery. There were many people that contributed to slavery in this country and blaming only the whites is wrong and racist. The next point of the article is that there is not only one group who benefited from slavery. Whites are not the only ones who have benefited from the labor of slaves. Black Americans are benefiting as well. “The GNP of black America is so large that it makes the African-American community the 10th most prosperous "nation" in the world. American blacks on average enjoy per capita incomes in the range of twenty to fifty times that of blacks living in any of the African nations from which they were kidnapped.” (Horowitz). The third point states that only a small number of whites own slaves and more importantly there were just as many whites that fought and dies for the freedom of slaves. Through their fight and the fight of many people the country has become a melting pot of cultures. “and forth arguments point out the fact that America is a multi cultural country. What rationale would require Vietnamese boat people to pay reparations to blacks” (Horowitz). The last five statements point out a black America against America mentality. Combining those together Horowitz states that blacks will not get paid because of injury they will get paid for being black. Unlike the historical precedents used to back the claim of reparations the people getting paid for slavery reparations are not the direct victims or their immediate family. The cry for reparations are based on race not on injury. However, many supporters of reparations feel that due to slavery in the United States, black people have not been fully able to overcome the poverty that followed when slaves were set free with nothing. Horowitz argues that this is due to the failure of individuals to prosper rather than the whole. He states that the black middle class is larger than the black lower class. The call for reparations gives these “failed individuals” a way to play the victim of American slavery. “…an extravagant new handout that is only necessary because some blacks can't seem to locate the ladder of opportunity within reach of others -- many less privileged than themselves” (Horowitz). In his eight point Horowitz states that reparations have already been paid in the trillions of dollars spent for affirmative action and welfare benefits. This in turn inspires point nine which talks about the debt that blacks owe to America for the privileges they have now. Through the death of the white soldiers of the Union army and the Emancipation Proclamation passed by Abraham Lincoln blacks would not have been freed. They also owe a debt to many people of all nationalities who fought to prove that all men are created equal. The last statement takes all his points and brings them together to make the point “The reparations claim as a separatist idea that sets African-Americans against the nation that gave them freedom” (Horowitz). African Americans do not need to separate themselves from the country that has provided liberties and freedom to them. They need America just as America needs them. Throughout history many blacks have paved the way for America to become what it is today. Due to the contribution of all Americans together we are all free. 3b) “But when the black living suffer real and current consequences as a result of wrongs committed by a younger America, then contemporary America must shoulder responsibility for those wrongs until such wrongs have been adequately righted” (Robinson). In his article for the justification of reparations “America’s Debt to Blacks” Randall Robinson argues that America today should pay for the wrongs of “young America”. The responsibilities of a nation are not limited by time or life spans. African Americans like Jews and the Japanese should get what they are owed. Robinson says that unlike the latter two, the call for justice from the African American community has come under attack. No living person today is responsible for slavery or the affects that it has had on the black community. “As a nation” Robinson says, “we must all ponder the repercussions of those acts.” Economic and Social disparities need to be righted before we can go forward as a nation. Slavery has caused a rift between the generations of blacks and whites that followed. The since of inequality still lingers. The fact that African Americans are born into lives brought on by poverty is not fair Robinson writes. African Americans must not forget where they have come from because America has a habit of sweeping its mistakes under a rug. Over the years African Americans have accepted this wrong. African Americans need to do what is necessary to shift Americas thinking of the past. Before America can understand the hardships put on by slavery; blacks need to understand them first. Just like blacks of Rosewood, Florida, and Greenwood, Oklahoma have brought their plight to the nation, African Americans as a whole need to bring forth the plight of slavery and its repercussions. The struggle for reparations and a right to the past wrongs is something all Americans must support if the country is to ever have a new beginning where all Americans are equal in every aspect. 5)New View: If reparations were given to the African American community, how many people would use the money for others?
paper:
Jill Robinson’s “BLACKout” tells the story of Nigel a Jamaican American living in Brooklyn. The county has passed Bill S9821 which promises to compensate African Americans for the slavery of their ancestors. Nigel finds that he is ineligible for compensation because his family did not arrive from American slaves. This upsets Nigel. Nigel along with the other black people who are not eligible begin protesting by not working. This is called in the book by White Supremacy books the BLACKout. The passing of the bill has turned blacks in America against American born descendants of black African slaves. Nigel decides to leave the country and go somewhere he can be the outsider he is treated as in America. “…if I’m going to be treated like a non-citizen or an outsider, then I might a well be one” (Robinson 241). The subject of reparations has always been a debatable topic. There are pros and cons to African Americans receiving reparations for the work of their slave ancestors. David Horowitz author of “Ten Reasons Why Reparations for Blacks is a Bad Idea for Blacks - and Racist Too” states that reparations could hurt the African American community more than it would help it. His first point is that one single group is not responsible for slavery. There were many people that contributed to slavery in this country and blaming only the whites is wrong and racist. The next point of the article is that there is not only one group who benefited from slavery. Whites are not the only ones who have benefited from the labor of slaves. Black Americans are benefiting as well. “The GNP of black America is so large that it makes the African-American community the 10th most prosperous "nation" in the world. American blacks on average enjoy per capita incomes in the range of twenty to fifty times that of blacks living in any of the African nations from which they were kidnapped.” (Horowitz). The third point states that only a small number of whites own slaves and more importantly there were just as many whites that fought and dies for the freedom of slaves. Through their fight and the fight of many people the country has become a melting pot of cultures. “What rationale would require Vietnamese boat people to pay reparations to blacks” (Horowitz). The last five statements point out a black America against America mentality. Combining those together Horowitz states that blacks will not get paid because of injury they will get paid for being black. Unlike the historical precedents used to back the claim of reparations the people getting paid for slavery reparations are not the direct victims or their immediate family. “But when the black living suffer real and current consequences as a result of wrongs committed by a younger America, then contemporary America must shoulder responsibility for those wrongs until such wrongs have been adequately righted” (Robinson). In his article for the justification of reparations:”America’s Debt to Blacks” Randall Robinson argues that America today should pay for the wrongs of “young America”. The responsibilities of a nation are not limited by time or life spans. African Americans like Jews and the Japanese should get what they are owed. Robinson says that unlike the latter two, the call for justice from the African American community has come under attack. No living person today is responsible for slavery or the affects that it has had on the black community. “As a nation” Robinson says, “we must all ponder the repercussions of those acts.” Economic and Social disparities need to be righted before we can go forward as a nation. Slavery has caused a rift between the generations of blacks and whites that followed. The since of inequality still lingers. The fact that African Americans are born into lives brought on by poverty is not fair Robinson writes. Both authors provided the reader with great insight into their thoughts on reparations. Do I think reparations should be paid to African Americans? My answer is not important in this paper. My new idea however is. African Americans need to look in the mirror and find out how much of our individual oppression is brought on by self. There is oppression on the African American community from an outside source but most African Americans today complain about that oppression but do nothing to stop it. It is as though they have accepted it. What would happen if America really did give descendants of African slaves 40 million dollars. I lot of the people I know would not use that money wisely. Giving the opportunity to uplift the African American community would people actually do it?
Work Cited
Horowitz, David. Ten Reasons Why Reparations for Blacks is a Bad Idea for Blacks - and Racist Too. FrontPage Magazine.com. January 03, 2001 http://www.frontpagemag.com/Articles/Read.aspx?GUID={23D875B0-65A3-44A3-A27B-14831CCB4107}
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books., 2004. 248.
Robinson, Randall. America‘s Debt to Blacks. TheNation.com February 23, 2000. http://www.thenation.com/doc/20000313/robinson
Jeannie K. Holmes November 5, 2007 EH 486 Essay #5
Economic Impact of Paying Racial Reparations
Focusing question:
What are the possible economic impacts of paying racial reparations?
Thesis statement:
Paying racial reparations, as outlined in Jill Robinson's short story BLACKout, would negatively impact the United States economy and is an unrealistic ideal.
Summary of Robinson's work:
Jill Robinson’s short story, BLACKout, explores the social impact of the United States paying reparations to the descendants of African slaves. The bill that authorizes the payment – S9821, or “the Guilt Bill” – offers forty million dollars to those who can prove they are the “American-born descendants of Black African slaves purchased and owned for use in the United States of America” (Robinson 235) and are at least “a full three-quarters black.” (Robinson 236) The main character of the story, Nigel, is deemed ineligible because his parents came from Jamaica. BLACKout explores the concept of intraracism – the hatred of one’s own ethnic group – and ultimately ends with Nigel abandoning any allegiance to county or ethnicity.
Summary of Freeman's work:
One of the first encounters Nigel has after the passing of the Guilt Bill is with an unnamed man in the New York subway. The man offers Nigel a free shirt picturing a mule on the front and the words “Forty Acres” on the back, a clear reference to the “forty acres and a mule” promised to freed slaves after the Civil War. Although there has been much debate over the origins of this promise, the most likely source is the orders and actions of General Tecumseh Sherman after his march through the American South.
On January 16, 1865, Sherman issued Special Field Order No. 15, which provided that:
“The islands of Charleston south, the abandoned rice fields along the rivers for thirty miles back from the sea, and the country bordering St. Johns River, Florida, are reserved and set apart for the settlement of [N]egroes now made free by the acts of war and the proclamation of the President of the United States.”
The land specified in the Order was divided into forty-acre tracts and processory land titles were issued to the head of each family of freed slaves, along with animals – primarily mules and horses – that were no longer useful to the military. However, Andrew Johnson later rescinded that order and the land was given back to the former white plantation owners. (Freeman)
Robison’s fictional account of the social impact of a “Guilt Bill” being passed is certainly interesting. However, what would be the real-life economic ramifications of paying reparations for American enslavement of Africans?
Summary of Osabu-Kle's work:
In a January 2000 article for the Journal of Black Studies, Daniel Tetteh Osabu-Kle gives the following estimated amount owed to descendants of American slaves:
Based on the Warsaw Convention of assigning value to loss of human life, compensation for each human life irrespective of race when an aircraft crashes is $75,000. … [T]he present value of reparation for human loss to Africa alone is $75,000 billion U.S. dollars or $75 trillion U.S. dollars. (Osabu-Kle 344)
At the time Osabu-Kle wrote his article, the United States national debt was already at $5,674,178,209,886.86 (TreasuryDirect.gov) or $5.6 trillion dollars. The amount specified by Osabu-Kle is roughly 8.34 times more than the current national debt of $9 trillion dollars – actual national debt amount being $9,079,086,185,866.28 as of October 31, 2007 (TreasuryDirect.gov).
Synthesis of texts:
The concept of paying reparations for past atrocities is not new. For example, Germany has paid $61.8 billion (figure from 1998) in reparations to Israel since 1951 for Nazi persecution of Jews during World War II. (The Journal of Historical Review) However, paying $75 trillion dollars would bankrupt the American government and cut funding across the board, including military defense, public assistance programs, health care, and education.
Surprising new view:
Few can argue that slavery of any ethnic group is not a terrible injustice or that the injustices leveled against Black American carried on for decades after the Civil War. However, we as a society – regardless of ethnicity – must ask ourselves the following question when discussing slavery reparations: How much of our future are we willing to sacrifice to pay for our past?
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Completed essay:
Jeannie K. Holmes November 5, 2007 EH 486 Essay #5
Economic Impact of Paying Racial Reparations
Jill Robinson’s short story, BLACKout, explores the social impact of the United States paying reparations to the descendants of African slaves. The bill that authorizes the payment – S9821, or “the Guilt Bill” – offers forty million dollars to those who can prove they are the “American-born descendants of Black African slaves purchased and owned for use in the United States of America” (Robinson 235) and are at least “a full three-quarters black.” (Robinson 236) The main character of the story, Nigel, is deemed ineligible because his parents came from Jamaica. BLACKout explores the concept of intraracism – the hatred of one’s own ethnic group – and ultimately ends with Nigel abandoning any allegiance to county or ethnicity.
One of the first encounters Nigel has after the passing of the Guilt Bill is with an unnamed man in the New York subway. The man offers Nigel a free shirt picturing a mule on the front and the words “Forty Acres” on the back, a clear reference to the “forty acres and a mule” promised to freed slaves after the Civil War. Although there has been much debate over the origins of this promise, the most likely source is the orders and actions of General Tecumseh Sherman after his march through the American South.
On January 16, 1865, Sherman issued Special Field Order No. 15, which provided that:
“The islands of Charleston south, the abandoned rice fields along the rivers for thirty miles back from the sea, and the country bordering St. Johns River, Florida, are reserved and set apart for the settlement of [N]egroes now made free by the acts of war and the proclamation of the President of the United States.”
The land specified in the Order was divided into forty-acre tracts and processory land titles were issued to the head of each family of freed slaves, along with animals – primarily mules and horses – that were no longer useful to the military. However, Andrew Johnson later rescinded that order and the land was given back to the former white plantation owners. (Freeman)
Robison’s fictional account of the social impact of a “Guilt Bill” being passed is certainly interesting. However, what would be the real-life economic ramifications of paying reparations for American enslavement of Africans?
In a January 2000 article for the Journal of Black Studies, Daniel Tetteh Osabu-Kle gives the following estimated amount owed to descendants of American slaves: Based on the Warsaw Convention of assigning value to loss of human life, compensation for each human life irrespective of race when an aircraft crashes is $75,000. … [T]he present value of reparation for human loss to Africa alone is $75,000 billion U.S. dollars or $75 trillion U.S. dollars. (Osabu-Kle 344)
At the time Osabu-Kle wrote his article, the United States national debt was already at $5,674,178,209,886.86 (TreasuryDirect.gov) or $5.6 trillion dollars. The amount specified by Osabu-Kle is roughly 8.34 times more than the current national debt of $9 trillion dollars – actual national debt amount being $9,079,086,185,866.28 as of October 31, 2007 (TreasuryDirect.gov).
The concept of paying reparations for past atrocities is not new. For example, Germany has paid $61.8 billion (figure from 1998) in reparations to Israel since 1951 for Nazi persecution of Jews during World War II. (The Journal of Historical Review) However, paying $75 trillion dollars would bankrupt the American government and cut funding across the board, including military defense, public assistance programs, health care, and education.
Few can argue that slavery of any ethnic group is not a terrible injustice or that the injustices leveled against Black American carried on for decades after the Civil War. However, we as a society – regardless of ethnicity – must ask ourselves the following question when discussing slavery reparations: How much of our future are we willing to sacrifice to pay for our past?
Works Cited
Freeman, Gerene L. “What about My Forty Acres & A Mule?” Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute. http://www.yale.edu/ynhti/curriculum/units/1994/4/94.04.01.x.html
“Germany Has Paid Out More Than $61.8 Billion in Third Reich Reparations.” The Journal of Historical Review. Vol. 17, No. 6. Nov.-Dec. 1998.
National Debt Information. TreasuryDirect.gov. November 2, 2007.
Osabu-Kle, Daniel Tetth. “The African Reparation Cry: Rationale, Estimate, Prospects, and Strategies.” Journal of Black Studies. Vol. 30, No. 3. January 2000.
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Sheree R. Thomas, Ed. Warner: New York. 2004.
The focusing questions for this essay are: What kind of country would America be if Black people did not stand and fight for equality? And if Blacks left America and retraced their history, what type of position would that leave this country in? In class we discussed the essay “Blackout” by Jill Robinson. This essay deals with Black power and White guilt. I read “From Slavery to Freedom” by John Hope Franklin and Alfred A. Moss Jr., which touched on various subjects such as: race reconciliation, Black Power Movement, and Black Revolution. Jill Robinson’s essay “Blackout” dealt with white people feeling guilty for the treatment towards Blacks. It also dealt with division, I saw Blacks being divided like the light shin house slaves and the dark skin cotton picking slaves. The reading touched on discrimination and self hate amongst ones own race. “Maybe White America will take the Senate hearings seriously now that the BLACKout’s stripped it of their migrant workers, housekeepers, secretaries, airport crews, and janitors” this quote shows that Robinson sees the need to have Black people in this country or business would close because Blacks are the ones who work the low paying jobs. The essay also suggest how it would be impossible for Blacks to just walk away from their jobs, because they can’t afford to. “From Slavery to Freedom” by Franklin and Moss explained how the Black Power movement gave Blacks a chance to voice their beliefs and form an organization that was for Black people needs. This book dealt with solutions for old problems. I think the Black Revolution helped some Blacks, but it also caused problems. Some Whites during this time felt the need to help Blacks out because they felt guilty. I think this is where the reparation bill comes into play. Robinson called it the guilt bill and I agree. If Black people were to leave America this country would fall into a deep hole. America would not survive if Blacks and Immigrants strike against the workforce and America. It would be impossible for all Blacks and Immigrants to leave America, but the possibility is overwhelming. If it was not for Black Power movements and Blacks standing up for equality, we would still be living in a more openly country of discrimination. Today there is still a lot of racism and discrimination, but its hidden.
Does race play a pivotal role in our education? And if so is it for the best interest of the intended individuals? Walter Mosley touches on these ideas and more in Whispers in the Dark. We encounter a little boy who in the eyes of everyone is very smart. When his Aunt Hazel comes over to visit, she realizes that Popo is very intelligent and quite frankly a born genius. She quickly tells her Auntie Misty that he needs to be tested and trained by an elite school for the gifted. Of course, the tight-knit family is against it. His Uncle Chill adamantly tells his opinion. He believes that Popo belongs with his family and does not need white folks to turn him against himself. The black family has engrained in their children that you must strive to succeed. There motto is that we came over here with nothing. What we work for is what is going to sustain us in the grueling years to come. There are plenty of schools for “geniuses”, yet children are not given the benefits because of family obligations. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote: "The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race." At face value, this is a principle dear to American hearts. No one of goodwill could disagree, yet, as applied, the idea powerfully split the high court as the justices decided 5 to 4 to bar school systems from explicitly considering student race in attempting to maintain classroom diversity.To the majority, the decision affirmed that officials can't constitutionally use skin color in barring a child from attending his or her school of choice. To the minority, it represented an abandonment of legal precedents that gave the government muscle to order desegregation to end the separate and unequal education
opportunities that led to the civil rights revolution. Both sides claimed the authority of the court's historic Brown vs. Board of Education decree. More than a half-century after Brown, and in a nation that has made marked strides toward equality, it was inevitable that the court would be called on to decide the limits of how race may be used to achieve social goals. The case arose out of districts that were fostering diversity by considering race in admissions. It pitted the constitutional rights of children who were excluded by race against the clear value of integration. The No Child Left Behind law makes closing the achievement gap a centerpiece of policy, and school aid levels have been boosted in New York to pour money into so-called high-needs schools. The way to go, first and foremost, is to provide quality education in every neighborhood while encouraging diversity by building programs that attract children of all races. Daily News (New York) If anything, the role that education plays in the life prospects of black Americans is even more dramatic than in the population as a whole. It's the closest thing to a magic potion for black people that I can think of. For boys and men, it is very often the antidote to prison or an early grave.A new report from the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University in Boston tells us that young adults in general have been struggling in the labor market. Many have been left behind by the modest economic recovery of the past few years, especially those with limited education credentials. The achievements of black pupils increase dramatically when they are given support and guidance. [The New York Times]
Focusing question: Is Nationality a race, and why does it matter which race an individual belongs to?
Thesis: In the short story’s Black Out, by Jill Robinson, and Whispers in the Dark, by Walter Mosley, each of the characters has to overcome and discover something that change the course of their lives.
200-250 word summary of Black Out: The story opens in Harlem, where Nigel, the main character, waits for a train at the station. He is on his way to his home in Brooklyn and coming from his girlfriend Alana’s home in Harlem. All around him people are congratulating one another for the passing of S9821 Bill, “the reparations bill that promises to compensate American citizens of African descent for years of unpaid slave labor.” This bill sounds like great news, but does not affect Nigel, Alana, or his two friends Lennox and Akiel. Their parents and grandparents were not American-born and that is one of the many stipulations. Many Blacks begin to go on strike, “now transit systems, cab service, and trash collection has come to a halt.” At an organized protest, Nigel sees and hears Kwali Mohammed, the president of the NAACP, Margaret Washington, and Harpton. Harpton begins to speak and no one agreed or trusted him. Mohammed tells the people to “Let the white man pay you, but don’t put his money back into his pocket.” Nigel has an epiphany and runs home to tell Alana. He feels that neither New York nor Jamaica, where his Grandmother lives, is home, so he decides to start over, but Alana is content with the way America is and chooses to stay. At the immigration office the immigration offices asks “Race?” “Black.” And the says “Nationality” and Nigel says “none.” After several moments the officer stamps his passport and says “We all Black People.”
200-250 word summary of Whispers in the Dark: The story opens with Misty Bent and her niece Hazel Bernard having a conversation about Popo’s education and future. The two women disagree, Misty and her son Chilly want to keep Popo safe and at home, and Hazel wants Popo to be tested and sent away to school. The authorities approached Chill at home, and Chill sent them away telling him that Popo would not be attending a state school. However, Chill needed money to ensure that Popo could get home schooled and then attend EEG’s Prime Com Link. From there he could go to Jesse Jackson Gymnasium. Popo was very smart, understanding radio sound waves that no one else could hear or understand. Kai Lin, the woman who cut his hair, was his friend and came to visit the family a lot. For a few weeks, Chill went out of town and called and then wrote a letter. Six weeks after Chill had gone, an ambulance returned Chill home on a stretcher. He was missing his eyes, a nerve in his spine, and his man-hood. He did all this to ensure Popo’s, Kai Lin’s, and his mother’s future. Kai Lin married him and took care of them. It was not an uncommon thing for poor men and women to sale body parts for money. Popo placed electric currents on both Chill and Misty’s head and sent them on to Heaven. He was later tried and convicted to life.
500 word Analysis: In both short story’s, Black Out and Whispers in the Dark, the characters sacrifice some part of their being so that either they or the people around them can advance to a higher social station and a better life. In the story Black Out, Nigel decides to take his future into his own hands. He decides that the government and society are not going to determine his social ranking and/or if he deserves to be called an American citizen. He does not need to prove he is black or white enough to anyone if he declares that is Nationality is none, which he does. At the end of the story he begins a new start in a new place where hopefully if there is racism it won’t be found within his own race. In the story Whispers in the Dark, Chill decides to also take matters into his own hands. He chooses to ensure his and his families stability by sacrificing his own body parts. This story is a more gruesome example then the text in Black Out, but it does get the message across that you can control your own destiny no matter what the costs. He decided that selling his body was worth becoming rich and stable. The audience to which these stories are directed is everyone. Each story deals with racism and social ranking and how an individual can overcome the system as long as they are willing to sacrifice and make changes. The genre is science fiction and the appeal of the story is not to focus of nationality or social class, but the individual determination and drive found in a person. The authors, both Robinson and Mosley, express their views in absurd ways. Robinson creates a far-out plot in Black Out with the S9821 Bill. This bill would never happen even with “White Guilt” because there are not enough liberals that feel that whites today owe past Black American slaves money. The bill is a good way to overcome the guilt, but would never happen in today’s society and government. Mosley, in “Whispers in the Dark”, focuses on the gruesome facts of life to portray his message. He acts as if it is common for poor people to sale their body parts for money. In this story, this notion is accepted without question, and if this concept is a true and practicing occurrence in today’s world, it should be ended. I think it is interesting that both titles to each story include a reference to darkness, or the unknown or undiscovered. “Black Out” refers to when the characters went on strike and stopped working. The city did not run, so White supremacy groups coined the term Black Out. “Whispers in the Dark” could refer to the voice of God that Popo heard through the radio and television waves or it could refer to Chill speaking to Popo, Misty, or Kai Lin. When Chill spoke, he saw only darkness with the lack of both of his eyes.
Risky View: After analyzing both texts, Black Out and Whispers in the Dark, it is apparent that people will go to great lengths to disregard their race and social ranking. Both texts make me question how important these things really are. Why does Nationality matter, or the government and society have so much power and control over its people and their choices?
Works Cited: Mosley, Walter. Whispers in the Dark. Dark Matter, Reading the Bones. ed. Sherre R. Thomas. New York: Warner Brothers Inc, 2004.
Robinson, Jill. BlackOut. Dark Matters, Reading the Bones. ed. Sherre R. Thomas. New York: Warner Brothers Inc, 2004.
Focusing Question? How do we change, and stop our government from having too much power before our world turns into Charles Johnson's world in "Sweet Dreams"?
Summary and Analysis of "Sweet Dreams" The story is set in 2008, written in 2004. It's told in first person so that the reader can really get into the character, and understand the plight at hand. You visit someone who has been hired to audit dream machines, and make sure that you are paying for the dreams you are having. The major point of the story is to show where our world will be heading if people in power are able to keep enforcing ridiculous laws to further control and tax us. In the end, you find out you owe an extremely large amount for dreams, daydreams. The government doesn't want anyone to dream because dreams are dangerous, hope is dangerous. Its scary.
Surprising new view: The only way to keep this from happening is to become more independant as a people. We don't need the government to decide everything, we just need to be more compassionate and work together without them, because they are no longer representing us. Any of us. They represent themselves. only.
In Charles Johnson’s, Sweet Dreams, the overall theme is with time. The world is heading in a very scary direction fast. Government is getting too large, and the decisions they are making (decisions for the overall good) are taking away our freedoms. Many would argue that even though the real world isn’t as extreme as the story, this is the future we are heading for. Even now, laws are being put into place that are for our own good. Many would argue that this is unfair, and that our national government is acting as big brother. I agree. The whole reason we “have” a representative democracy, is so that everyone’s opinion will go into consideration. But our national government isn’t deciding based on what civilians they represent, they are deciding based on political parties and accepted ideas and movements within the subculture of Washington politics. The majority is dead, and doesn’t matter to them anymore. No one votes. No one knows what to do. Is there hope? I believe so. The major problem with our people is that three-fourths of them rely on the national government for everything (for programs and income, and ideas and opinions). There are two major groups that are often divided among party lines. They are not. One major group or type cries out to national government on every issue. “This isn’t right, and we want you to make it right. Pass a law, do anything. You have to help us because you are our national government.” This is a major problem with our political system. The government is run by balancing Hollywood with New York in the media, and Washington uses these cries and outreached hands to pass new laws further controlling the people. The laws are well written and often leave no loopholes. The power they grant themselves is often much more than what was needed to answer the pleas for help. The other side, which obviously has less support from Hollywood and big business, wants us to pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps. We should. Why should we have to rely on a government to make sure that our freedoms aren’t being overpowered, our opinions going unheard? Why should we expect them to help? Have our state governments lost too much power? I think so. There is a sense of Americanism that has been overpowering for many years. Now it is turning negative, both locally and worldwide. There aren’t many people who are happy with everything, and everyone has someone to blame it on. My opinion is that there is no government that can nationally rule over as much land and people as we have here. There are too many opinions, and when a decision is made on a national level, more people are left out of the majority than if the same decisions were made on a state level. This has never worked for a long period of time in any nation or country or kingdom in millions of years. We are repeating mistakes of the past, but the majority doesn’t even see this because our public educational system is run by the government, and therefore, crappy. And our “educated” elected officials don’t see this because they have money over their eyes. Our states are about the same size as countries in Europe, so why can’t our states have as much power as they do. We can all be united states. Get it? United States. We’re supposed to have powerful states that can take care of their people on more of a local level, only united in world issues. Otherwise, wouldn’t they have just called it America? So how do we change it? Do we run around in the streets with our hands up saying, “Help us National Government, make it right!” (make it worse). No. It starts on the local level, given that that’s really the only level that majorly effects the civilian individual. We have to be a more compassionate, helping people, not because the government makes us that way, but because we truly want a better life, and an even better life for our children, and an even better life for their children. Too many decisions are being made over our heads for reasons unstated. Too many people think that they are too important, and that their opinions should be forced onto others who don’t share the same views. Too many people blame their problems on others, when they have every opportunity to have a great life. We have to fix it. I won’t live in Charles Johnson’s world. Already, our dreams are billed and taxed, just not with high tech machines.
Focusing Question: What makes youth of the twentieth century focus every decision and their personal lives to revolve around money? Thesis Statement: In a youthful society where every man fights to be equal, understood, and justified, money is the root of every decision we make. I will explore this thought with the research of youth today and their social thoughts on money being exemplified through music and television entertainment. 200-500 word Summary It’s sad to speak the truth about our society today and the decisions we make based on money. It is even more compelling to understand the youthful influences that make this thought apparent in the juvenile society of America. In a society where television and technologies steer and trigger the thoughts of youth, money is inflicted and focused on tremendously. Many of the songs and television shows encourage the demand for money through exemplifying power. For example, in the song “Money, Power” By Big Timers, we are introduced to the lyrics showing power and respect through the refreain: “If you could be me for an hour, have money and power, stand tall and ball and send your records to tower you would love that (Hot, Hot) you would love that (Hot, Hot)” . Another example of music portraying money through power is through Browse Fury’s “The Slaughterhouse”. In their lyrics, they portray the thoughts of youth today: “What opens doors for you in the restaurants? What makes you realize your dreams? What let’s you buy cars and cars, one for every day. Just what you really need? Money rules let’s buy the world. Money rules let’s rule the world. Money rules forget the world. Money rules let’s crack the world. What makes the movie beauties smile at you? What makes your bogies shine like gold? What makes your doctor be your best friend when you visit him? What makes the bank-clerks smile and sing and they sing (Repeat)”. In songs like this, the power money holds is once again imbedded into the youthful minds. I asked a student of South Alabama, Holly Smith, her idea on the focus of money power in songs today. She replied, “If every one would just stop talking about how important money is in your life to be happy, I am sure many youth of today who don’t have positive influences to direct them otherwise would not have so much desire in the power of money.” 200-500 word summary The personal power of money is also exemplified through the youth today through enjoyment of box office movies and video games. One example of this is the well known movie “Scare face”. The film Scarface was released more than 20 years ago, but it continues to inspire wannabe thugs and nihilistic megalomaniacs to this day. The movie centers around the power money can do for you and the illegal ways of getting it. As popular and action-packed as the film is, it makes sense that it would be tapped as source material for a video game. What's surprising about the Play Station Portable game, “Scarface: Money. Power. Respect.”, is that it doesn't just slap a familiar license on a generic action game. Instead of testing your trigger speed, Scarface tests your business acumen by challenging you to manage the operations of a drug cartel and money gain. The subject matter isn't for everyone just like the movie. But of course we all know that never happens and ends up in the hands of our youth today. Not only does this movie and game influence the youth toward the power of money, but also influences them in a negative way. The relationship of drugs and money are very apparent throughout the movie. Certain youth of today take influences like this and imply them to their own lives. This is done all for the power of money. Analysis of text: We all look at situations like this and think them to be nothing but controversial. We try to steer away from risky situations and just fall into the trap like everyone else does. The point here is that people today don’t know how to live without the power gained from money. We all point our fingers and blame things like video games and music lyrics persuading our youth. But we have to understand how true that statement is. Society today directs our youth into thinking one cannot live if not thought to be in the social higher class. And certain lyrics, movies, and games help this to be true. Many youth today are influenced extremely if not entirely on the persuasion of popular fads. Most of these fads are focused on the power gained when owning money. This thought is so strong, that many youth go through violence, illegal actions, and life changing decisions to have this gained power. But what do we do? It’s one thing to turn off the television. But putting our children into the public eye makes them prone to this negative persuasion. Luckily, there are many youth groups and counseling centers that help the youth to gain positive knowledge. I was amazed in researching youth help centers and focus groups at the large amounts available to the community. The only problem is trying to get these children there. We must all focus and help our youth today to be steered in the rite direction. Society tries to destroy what we input. But, with the unity of working on banning video games and keeping children out of adult movies, we can work as one to help. Statement of Risky of Suprising New View: The situation will never be worked out completely. But I know at one point in our lives we will have to influence someone of the younger generation in money decisions and personal power through doing the positive thing when dealing with money power. When you are challenged with this decision, I hope you will remember my paper.
Leading Question What is the alternative when life is too horrible to handle?
Thesis Statement Although in Johnson and Robinson’s essay both characters are involved in situations they wish to solve, both go about solving it different ways. In Sweet Dreams the character discusses his problem, where as in BLACKout Nigel decides to runaway from his problem.
Summary of Johnson’s text
Nightmares are meant to happen when you are sleeping. For many people, however, nightmares occur on a daily basis. For some people, nightmares are their lives. In Charles Johnson’s essay Sweet Dreams, this was the case. The Auditor wants to know what happened to the 210 dreams he did not account for in his dream tax. He responded he did not enjoy these dreams; they were more like nightmares. The Auditor charges him for those unaccounted dreams/nightmares. The Auditor also goes over some of his dreams with him to let him know why he owes so much money. He explains that the longer the dream, the more money it costs. In addition, nightmares are three times higher in tax. The Auditor went on and mentioned why people started paying for dreams; but the main character seemed too shocked to even care. Once he paid the Auditor the $91,645.14 check, he asked the Auditor a question… “Does he, the Auditor, dream?” The Auditor responded by saying he could not afford it; then he looked at the check he just received and smiled.
Summary of Robinson’s text
Have you ever felt like you just did not fit in, no matter what you said or did? Well, Nigel felt that way, in more ways than one. His love, Alana, lived in Harlem; but Nigel lived in Brooklyn. Because of the distance, Nigel had to take the train to see Alana. One day, while Nigel was on the bus going to see Alana, the best news broke out for all American Blacks. They passed the S9821. “The reparations bill that promises to compensate American citizens of African descent for years of unpaid slave labor.” You would think Nigel would be excited about this, but there was a problem. Nigel knows that since his parents were not born American citizens, he not have a part in the bill. He gets really mad at people who are just like him, but think they are going to get paid, too. He feels as if he has no home. He goes to Jamaica, but just as before, he does not fit in. Nigel does the first thing that comes to his head… He runs away. The only thing he is sure about is the color of his skin.
Analysis of text
In conclusion, I have stated the problems both character’s encounter in each essay. Although both have problems, they solve their problems in different ways. In Johnson’s essay, the character has proven Herbert Marcuse’s theory on authority. He believes that no authority of government at power is needed for liberating tolerance. This is what happens when you dream. The character does just that. When he dreams, he does not think about anything else. In Robinson’s essay, Nigel decided to take his problem in his own hands. Nigel ran away to try to find his identity. For some people running away can be a positive way of solving their problem, but for others, the problem just tags along.
Statement of Risky or Surprising New View
When life is too horrible to handle, take a nap and have sweet dreams. Otherwise, your problems will come back to haunt you. The real challenge is to confront the situation and find ways to prevent horrible living.
Completed ESSAY
What is the alternative when life is too horrible to handle? Although in Johnson and Robinson’s essay both characters are involved in situations they wish to solve, both go about solving it different ways. In Sweet Dreams the character discusses his problem, where as in BLACKout Nigel decides to runaway from his problem.
Nightmares are meant to happen when you are sleeping. For many people, however, nightmares occur on a daily basis. For some people, nightmares are their lives. In Charles Johnson’s essay Sweet Dreams, this was the case. The Auditor wants to know what happened to the 210 dreams he did not account for in his dream tax. He responded he did not enjoy these dreams; they were more like nightmares. The Auditor charges him for those unaccounted dreams/nightmares. The Auditor also goes over some of his dreams with him to let him know why he owes so much money. He explains that the longer the dream, the more money it costs. In addition, nightmares are three times higher in tax. The Auditor went on and mentioned why people started paying for dreams; but main character seemed too shocked to even care. Once he paid the Auditor the $91,645.14 check, he asked the Auditor a question… “Does he, the Auditor, dream?” The Auditor responded by saying he could not afford it; then he looked at the check he just received and smiled.
Have you ever felt like you just did not fit in, no matter what you said or did? Well, Nigel felt that way, in more ways than one. His love, Alana, lived in Harlem; but Nigel lived in Brooklyn. Because of the distance, Nigel had to take the train to see Alana. One day, while Nigel was on the bus going to see Alana, the best news broke out for all American Blacks. They passed the S9821. “The reparations bill that promises to compensate American citizens of African descent for years of unpaid slave labor.” You would think Nigel would be excited about this, but there was a problem. Nigel knows that since his parents were not born American citizens, he not have a part in the bill. He gets really mad at people who are just like him, but think they are going to get paid, too. He feels as if he has no home. He goes to Jamaica, but just as before, he does not fit in. Nigel does the first thing that comes to his head… He runs away. The only thing he is sure about is the color of his skin.
In conclusion, I have stated the problems both character’s encounter in each essay. Although both have problems, they solve their problems in different ways. In Johnson’s essay, the character has proven Herbert Marcuse’s theory on authority. He believes that no authority of government at power is needed for liberating tolerance. This is what happens when you dream. The character does just that. When he dreams, he does not think about anything else. In Robinson’s essay, Nigel decided to take his problem in his own hands. Nigel ran away to try to find his identity. For some people running away can be a positive way of solving their problem, but for others, the problem just tags along.When life is too horrible to handle, take a nap and have sweet dreams. Otherwise, your problems will come back to haunt you. The real challenge is to confront the situation and find ways to prevent horrible living.
Works Cited
Johnson, Charles. “Sweet Dreams.” Dark Matter: Reading The Bones. Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books, 2004. 243-248.
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading The Bones. Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books, 2004. 232-242.
For Bridget: You did a great job of comparing and contrasting the two articles. I liked the way you synthesized between the two. While I do not agree with your conclusion, the questions you raised in your essay are certainly valid and deserve to be thought about.
For LaWanda: Excellent choice of article. I liked your new idea about individual oppression. Your essay certainly got me thinking about how big a role personal responsibility plays when trying to place blame for certain situations.
For Jeannie: Your essay was very intriguing. I had never thought about the economic impact reparations could have on the country. The figures you found were impressive and helped to drive home your new view.
For Erica: You did a good job of connecting BLACKout with Franklin and Moss’ book. I enjoyed your discussion of the Black Power Movement, but wish you would have elaborated a bit more on that topic.
For Sanavieai: You new view was very surprising, yet seems like it might be easily implemented given the right amount of attention by Americans and their representatives.
For Kathryn: I like the correlation you found between the two stories and the use of darkness. Also, your risky new view calls for some attention. It made me think of the things people do/believe in simply because of their nationality and how these things can be both positive and negative.
For Kennon: I agree with your position that people should take a more active role in the government and make sure their voice is heard. Your last line is brilliant.
For Lauren: Very interesting and relevant topic. I completely agree with your assertion that this generation needs to purposefully and actively steer the next generation in a different direction.
For Whitney: Good job in seeing how the characters reacted differently in the stories. I liked your advice to confront the bad situations we find ourselves in.
Would reparations be a negative impact on a confused world?
Thesis statement:
Money is the root of all evil in this world. Unfortunately, reparations would have a negative impact upon this confused world.
Summary of Robinson's work:
In Jill Robinson’s, “Blackout,” issues of reparations are addressed. Throughout the story, individuals are so caught up with receiving money for pain and suffering that they pay no attention to how their community is deteriorating from the effects of it. The community was falling apart because everyone was succumbing to the pressures of buying material goods. Instead of using the money positively everyone began using the money on unnecessary items.
Synthesis of text:
The benefits should be used in order to strengthen the community as a whole. However, the only thing that would be on people’s minds would be Nike, cars, houses of inadequate proportion, and other unnecessary items. The market would target Black America also. Just as quickly as the money was handed out, it would be back in the hands of the government. Those who spent their money too quickly would rob and kill for other’s money. Not only would it cause a divide among the Whites and Blacks in the nation, but also it would rip Black America apart. It is unfair for the people of today to be considered responsible for yesterday’s mistakes. If that were the case, many individuals would be paying for the crimes of their families.
Surprising new view:
The world is very confused just as in this story. If people would work to make their dreams come true and live for the present and future, but learn from the past life society would be greater. If reparations were ever received, they would be the destruction of Black America as we know it.
Reparations: A Negative Impact upon a Confused World
During slavery, Black Americans were subjected to lynching, discrimination, segregation, and many other demeaning acts. Today there are still individuals that feel reparations are due for the pain and suffering caused by the emotional and physical abuse caused by White Americans during that time. Reparations for slavery suggest that the government apologize to the slave descendants for all that was done to them, not only in the form of money but also orally. I feel as if reparations in the monetary form are not the answer for these problems that occurred at that time. Money is the root of all evil in this world. Unfortunately, reparations would have a negative impact upon this confused world. In Jill Robinson’s, “Blackout,” issues of reparations are addressed. Throughout the story, individuals are so caught up with receiving money for pain and suffering that they pay no attention to how their community is deteriorating from the effects of it. The community was falling apart because everyone was succumbing to the pressures of buying material goods. Instead of using the money positively everyone began using the money on unnecessary items. This is exactly what would happen in our society if we were to get reparations. Why reap the benefits from a negative event and use them to improve your status? If anything, the benefits should be used in order to strengthen the community as a whole. However, the only thing that would be on people’s minds would be Nike, cars, houses of inadequate proportion, and other unnecessary items. The market would target Black America also. Just as quickly as the money was handed out, it would be back in the hands of the government. Those who spent their money too quickly would rob and kill for other’s money. Not only would it cause a divide among the 2 Whites and Blacks in the nation, but also it would rip Black America apart. It is unfair for the people of today to be considered responsible for yesterday’s mistakes. If that were the case, many individuals would be paying for the crimes of their families. White Guilt is a feeling held by many White liberal supporters. As we discussed in class, this has led many rich White Americans to support Blacks because they feel sorry for the way in which White America has treated the Black race. However, many do not realize that this feeling could be turned into hatred and anger if the issue of reparations was pressed. Racism could increase not only because of jealousy, but also because of equality. The world is very confused just as in this story. If people would work to make their dreams come true and live for the present and future, but learn from the past life society would be greater. If reparations were ever received, they would be the destruction of Black America as we know it.
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Sheree R. Thomas, Ed. Warner: New York. 2004.
Bridget: I agree with your view that if reparations were given money is not the way to go. I like the text that you used for your paper. The authors' insights were very interesting.
Felicia:I agree that young twenty somethings should be proactive but not just twenty somethings every should be. Who will take that step though? Of course we should be but when we are educated enough about the situation then what? Some people that want to do something don't know where to start. People that are educated and doing things and hae the resources are doing all they can but they still need help from outside sources. I am not giving people excuses. I just feel some are doing what they can while others just read about it and move on.
jkholmes: Your paper was really interesting to read. When I read the part about Germany paying reparations I remembered that they also paid reparations to France after the WW1 I think it was. They lost so much money. I really liked your essay.
SkyyBlu: Your right their is a lot of discrimination and racism in our country but some people have learned to leave that behind closed doors. They are refered to as "closet racist". I remember when the Virgina Tech shooting happened my friend that was Korean went to work and someone made the comment not to make him mad or he'll shoot them. How ignorant is that? We still have along way to go but we've also accomplished alot.
Shay: Your paper was interesting to read. I was a Education major two years ago and I was so ready to show children that there are people out there that actually care how they live their lives. There are so many programs out there to help students but what is so shocking is that some parents will not push that child to do more. My friend after high school decided to work. I remember her mother saying that she was not smart enough for college adn should be happy she got her high school diploma. The parents have to get involved as well for their children to see the benifits in learning. Great Paper.
kgarikes: You are so true in your writing. My parents have always told me that I need to "sell myself" in order to get ahead. Basically meaning I need to act a certain way in order for people to take me seriously and advance forward. I've always thought it was pretty sad that it would be hard for me to be myself and get what I want.
Kennon: Your paper was very intersting to read. After reading it I realize that we as citizens give the government to much power over us. When something happens or goes wrong the first thing people do is look to the government for help. When this country firt started the government was there to help the people not control them. Good paper.
Lauren: We live in a consumer society. In order to be the best you have to buy the best. Is that right, I don't think so. The media both television and music talk about having big houses, lots of cars, unlimited fun, and so on. It is praised as the perfect life and the youth sees it everywhere they go. My cousin is 15 and what did he want for his birthday? A large platinum chain "like 50 Cent has" was what he said. Even though it wasn't real it was almost over a hundred dollars!!
Whitney: I liked your essay. It made me think about a lot of things that are happening around me now. Good job.
gucci143: I thought your paper was well written you are right, we should learn from mistakes in the past and work hard not to repeat things. We should however, not forget those that struggled and died for the rigts we all have today.
Why are certain races expected to take on the pain and guilt of other races to make things right? Why are they expected to be a “whipping boy”?
Thesis:
In both texts, Whipping Boy and Jesus Christ in Texas, the main characters appear to feel as though they need to take on other’s pain.
Summary of Whipping Boy
In Whipping Boy, Dexter is being told by his Aunt June that he must take over where his cousin Marcus and others before him left off. A whipping boy is someone who received punishment for someone else, such as royalty. Dexter is the whipping boy in this story, but he does not want to do what his calling is. He doesn’t think its fair that he should have to take on the “white man’s burden”. His Aunt June is the one that is pushing him to be this whipping boy because it is in him and his line is to be this. In the end, we find that Dexter must become the whipping boy in order to take the pain from his girlfriend. Once he removes her pain, she forgets him and he is suddenly left with only rage.
Summary of Jesus Christ in Texas
Jesus Christ in Texas is about a stranger who appears in Waco, Texas at a meeting between the convict guard and the colonel. The colonel is so taken by him that he invites him to his home. At his home, the guards’ servant trembles and bows before him, and the guards child crawls in his lap. When guests begin arriving, they all mistake the stranger for a servant because of his skin color. The rector claims to have met the stranger somewhere before, and the stranger denies this meeting. Later, the stranger is in the woods and meets an escaped convict. He releases the convict in the night. The convict ends up working for a farmer and his wife. While working for them, he accidentally knocks the wife down while running towards the house. The guard thinks he is trying to rape her. He sends out a lynch mob and hangs the convict. The woman hides in the house as the lynching takes place, and the last thing she hears is, “This day you shalt be with me in Paradise.”
Analysis:
In both the Whipping Boy and Jesus Christ in Texas, there is a character that appears to be the middle man for everyone’s wrong doing. In Whipping Boy, the main character Dexter is expected to take on the pain and suffering of everyone around him. He is expected to pay for everyone else’s suffering. He doesn’t want to take on everyone’s burdens. Dexter doesn’t feel as though he should have to, but his aunt pushes him telling him that it is his calling. In Jesus Christ in Texas, the stranger that appears in Waco feels the need to take on everyone’s burdens, but he feels as though this is his calling. He almost wants to hear what everyone has to say, and he wants to help them. He helps the convict and the farmer’s wife. Both of these characters, the stranger and Dexter, take on almost Christ like figures in the way that they are assisting everyone with their problems. The stranger seems to embrace this way of life, while Dexter tries to hide from it. I think the purpose of this text is to bring to the realization to some people that they can’t just dump their problems on other people hoping that they will go away. It is more important for others to face their problems head on, and try to work through them. They can’t run and hide from them.
Risky Decision:
Every person is responsible for their own self, and their own actions. There is not a single person who should feel the responsibility of taking on the task of someone else’s situation.
Works Cited:
Noles, Pam. Whipping Boy. Dark Matters, Reading the Bones. Warner Books Inc,2004.
Bois, Du W. E. B. , Jesus Christ In Texas. Dark Matters, Reading the Bones. Warner Books Inc, 2004
In the title of the story “Blackout”, blackout is spelled BLACKout. Blackout is in all caps and out is in lowercased letters. Why is that? In terms of racism, it can obviously be seen as blacks are excluded while whites are included. According to Pamela Sargent’s Review on Dark Matter: Reading the Bones, “Jill Robinson’s “BLACKout” takes a look at some prejudices within the African-American community with a biting satirical look at what might happen if a reparations bill were passed to compensate African-Americans for their slave labor.” On the other hand, blackout is an ambiguous term. It means “a partial or total loss of memory, a momentary loss of consciousness, unconsciousness, power outage, power failure, dimout, interruption, pause, break, suspension, intermission, the failure of electric power for a general region, darkness resulting from the extinction of lights (as in a city invisible to enemy aircraft), a suspension of radio or TV broadcasting, faint, a turning off of the stage lighting to separate scenes in a play or end a play or skit; a period of darkness enforced as a precaution against air raid; a period of darkness (as in a city) caused by a failure of electrical power; a transient dulling or loss of vision, consciousness, or memory; a wiping out; a blotting out by censorship; a temporary loss of a radio signal; the prohibition or restriction of the telecasting of a sports event; a time during which a special commercial offer (as of tickets) is not valid; a temporary or permanent state of unconsciousness.” Speaking of blackout, today, November 2, some people are celebrating National Black Out Day. I had never heard of this until I received an email about it on Tuesday, October 30, 2007. The email reads: “Please spread to at least five other people and make sure you inform them to send the info to five other people, to spread the word. National Black Out Day on November 2...Do not make any purchases on this day, and please do not make any major $ amount purchases the day before or the day after because then the Black Out will be of no effect. This is from 102.5 radio station (Atlanta); they are asking their listeners to spread the word for those who may not listen to the station. This is the second phase from the Jena 6 and many other cities and people of color are facing similar situation like the Jena 6. NO PURCHASES... NO PURCHASES... NO PURCHASES... NO PURCHASES...NO PURCHASES NOV. 1, NOV. 2, OR NOV. 3.” According to Wikipedia.com, “On October 5, 2007, a message was posted on Spears’ official website confirming that the title of the album is “Blackout”. A spokesman for Jive Records has said that the title of Britney’s fifth studio album, “Blackout”, is about “blacking out negativity and embracing life.” I love this meaning for blackout, and I never thought of it in that sense. This definition of Britney Spears’s album Blackout has helped me expand my horizons with the term. I was looking at T.D. Jakes CD cover titled T.D. Jakes Presents God’s Leading Ladies: Out of the Shadows...Into the Light. If you look at the CD cover you will see a black lady standing behind the stage curtains with the microphone in her right hand as if she is waiting for her turn to sing on stage. It is really like a coming out. The way I interpret the title of this CD is you are exiting, coming out of the shadows of your dark past of abuse, pain, misery, destruction, hopelessness, poverty, or whatever, and now you are entering, into the light of your bright future of abundant life, hope, joy, and prosperity in your mind, heart, soul, body, and every area of your life. To break down the title BLACKout, my interpretation of BLACK is referring to not only racism, but darkness, negativity, broken dreams, fear, inside the box, despair, rags, curses, nightmares, depression, suffering, night, mourning, ashes, no way out, lost, in-the-dark, blindness, closed, tradition, concealment, hidden mystery, ignorance, destruction, and sins. In this sense, all of the interpretations of BLACK is out, but white is in, not in a sense of racism. When I say white is in, I mean in terms of light, referring to there is a light at the end of the tunnel, positivity, dreams, visions, goals, gifts, talents, power/ability, blessings, goodness, happiness, wealth, outside the box, open, morning, daybreak, joy, found, sight, illumination, revelation, intelligence, light bulb moment, ideas, concepts, abilities, power, and knowledge is power/ability. To put it all together, I would use the examples of going from rags to riches; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Now is the time to come out of the shell, outside the box. Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. I like the definition of Blackout, according to Britney Spears’s album. It has helped me to broaden my interpretation for BLACKout, and I will never see blackout the same way ever again.
16 comments:
Bridget Whalen
Are Reparations a Good Idea?
There is a growing deal of debate and opinions forming over the idea of reparations for slavery. There is no doubt that slavery was indeed a horrible thing that should never have happened, and that it caused countless numbers of African Americans to suffer needlessly. However, there are questions that remain: should we give reparations, and, are reparations a good idea? While reparations might make the receivers a bit happier it does not make up for the trauma and suffering that slavery caused.
The first text that I am going to discuss is BLACKout by Jill Robinson. This story focuses on two characters of African American decent, Alana and Nigel. In the story a reparations bill has been passed issuing African Americans who can prove that they are of American-born African decent and have ties to slavery on both the maternal and paternal side 40 million dollars to repay them for their ancestor’s enslavement. This notion outrages the West Indian population living in the surrounding areas such as the Jamaicans, Trinidadians etc. Nigel expresses his distaste for the eligibility requirements and says that they are trying to make African Americans prove that they are “American” enough and “Black” enough. The jilted African Americans who are not receiving the reparations turn to boycott and strikes to show their disdain. There is a riot in Harlem where some prominent black leaders come to speak out about the benefits of reparations and to get the black community to end the strike and return to work. One of the men, Harpton states that it will unite the black community, but it seems to be doing just the opposite. In the end, fed up with what is being referred to as a blackout, Nigel decides to leave America and live in a country where he is an outsider, therefore being treated like one will be justified. He invited Alana to go with him but she refuses because life in America is the only life she has ever known.
The second work I am going to use is an article by Michael He titled “Should We Pay Reparations for Slavery?”. He is not in favor of reparations. He states that they should never occur for several reasons. He says first that in no way does money repay people for the pain and suffering that was caused by slavery and that anyone who has been a slave should be outraged that their descendants would be willing to receive monetary gain for their agony. Secondly he begins to name some of the discrepancies and problems faced when deciding just who should receive the reparations and where the money should come from. He questions the racial requirements, and who should be responsible for the money used to pay the reparations. He also talks about the white Americans who supported the abolishment of slavery, the whites who never owned slaves and the ones who gave their life in the Civil War to outlaw it. He states that he thinks that the idea for reparations comes from a good place; the need to recognize the horrors of slavery and make amends, but he also says that money is simply not the answer. He says that giving away money is like “allowing the guilty to buy back their consciences, sort of a forgive and forget method. He says that we should never allow this to happen and allow the world to forget about the horrors of slavery.
These two texts offer both similar and opposing views on the issue of reparations. While both authors seem to believe that reparations are not a good idea, their reasons as to why this is are different. In BLACKout the main opposition to reparations is one of division. With all the stipulations put on who is eligible to receive the money, it would divide the black community and drive a wedge between blacks based simply on their ancestral ties to slavery and whether or not they descended from American-born blacks. Robinson seems to imply that all blacks living in the United States are African Americans wether or not their ancestors were born here or not. She implies that when you force black people to assess their American-ness and their black-ness that it causes an issue of race between people of the same skin color. Where race issues are usually a matter of black versus white, it then becomes and issue of black versus black. This is a very strong argument and she makes a good point. Putting that many restrictions on who could receive the money would cause problems in the black community, especially if people began to strike their jobs. Then, not only would those people not be getting the money from the reparations, but they would also be at risk of becoming unemployed. All this just to prove that they deserve the money just as much as the others.
The idea that one set of African Americans are more deserving just because their ancestors were slaves is tricky. This is a topic that He brings up in his essay. He states that the African Americans living today never experienced slavery themselves, and receiving money to atone for their ancestors suffering does not make anything better. His article shows that he is a staunch opponent of reparations. Though he is opposed to reparations, I find his article filled with deep understanding of the issue of slavery and a strong willingness to make amends for the horrors suffered by black slaves. I like his ideas because he presents his reasons for opposing this idea. The idea that monetary gain will never atone for the suffering of the slaves is a good one. While the receivers of the money would be appeased, will they ever look back and say that it was all worth it? He doesn’t seem to think so. While it would show that the world is willing to admit the wrong and make amends, throwing money at the problem is not the answer. Also, He did a good job by bringing up the issues about who would be responsible for paying the money. I like his point about taxing Americans in order to get the funds. He shows that if we tax all Americans, that would include the unskilled labor force of immigrants living here now that had nothing to do with owning slaves. Should they be responsible for paying? Both these articles seem to be against reparations, and they both present good reasons for their ideas. Robinson makes a great point in bringing up the divide it would cause between members of the black community and He makes a good point with all of his reasons. All the issues brought up by these two people are relevant and pertinent to the issue of reparations.
Upon reading these two texts and pondering the views expressed by each person, I have tried to make up my own mind about the issue of reparations. Should America make amends for the injustices of slavery? Yes I think America has to be willing to admit the wrong doings and apologize for the pain and suffering caused by it. However, I do not think that money is the way to go. I do not think that we should support the idea that money is all it takes to remove years of bondage and mistreatment of a race of people. If we do choose to somehow repay or offer African Americans something to show our regret for this mistake, I think it needs to be something deeper than money because money cannot remove the suffering endured by the enslaved African Americans. Yes America desperately needs to make amends somehow for this atrocity, but money is not the answer.
Works Cited
He, Michael. "Should we pay reparations for slavery?." Campus Times. 05 Dec 2002. University of Rochester. 1 Nov 2007
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books, 2004. 231- 42.
Felicia Hall
Essay 5
Focusing Question:
How are American twentysomethings interacting with the rest of the world in a post 9/11 era?
Thesis Statement:
While both Friedman and Martin agree that this generation of young Americans is well-informed on current events and global issues, Friedman is condemning of their lack of action and outrage while Martin insists that these same twentysomethings are simply coping in the face of overwhelming political causes.
Summary of Friedman’s Text:
In his article in the New York Times, Thomas L. Friedman describes his feelings about the current generation of twentysomethings. He calls them “Generation Q” because he sees them as ‘quiet Americans’ because they quietly and privately pursue their ideological worlds at home and abroad in the midst of a world on edge. Friedman grants that this generation is well-educated, well-informed, and sensitive to current global issues, but feels that they aren’t doing enough to effect a change in these issues. He applauds Generation Q for their activism (such as studying abroad to encounter the rest of the world, and volunteering in Africa), yet claims that this is not enough. Friedman accuses this generation of needing to be outraged at the things going on in the world and in their own country. He believes that, despite knowing the statistics, no one from this generation is demanding that something be done about the failing Social Security system or trying to push new measures against global warming into law. He states that the instant gratification of point-and-click has made this generation lazy—“…they can’t e-mail it in, and an online petition or a mouse click for carbon neutrality won’t cut it.” Friedman claims that this lack of outrage/laziness is lessening the impact this generation could have on the world. In regards to Generation Q’s part in the next election, Friedman says, “The candidates could actually use a good kick in the pants…but where is it going to come from?” Friedman’s entire argument can be summed up in his own words: “America needs a jolt of the idealism, activism, and outrage (it must be in there somewhere) of Generation Q. That’s what twentysomethings are for—to light a fire under the country.”
Summary of Martin’s Text:
In her article printed in The American Prospect, Courtney E. Martin claims that Friedman has completely misinterpreted her generation by labeling them Generation Q. She states, “Thomas Friedman has mistaken my generation’s absolute paralysis in the face of so many choices, so many causes, and so much awareness, for a mere quiet.” Martin believes that what Friedman has taken as a lack of outrage is simply purposeful distraction on the part of these twentysomethings. She claims that this generation is not quiet and points to the record number of people studying abroad, volunteering across the globe, participating in “Teach for America”, and studying sociology in an attempt to interact with the rest of the world. She asserts that this “Generation Q” is passionate about the things happening in the world—from global warming to the war in Iraq, but cannot find a suitable avenue for their energies in the face of so many causes. Martin says, “If I read the news today with my heart wide open and my mind engaged, I will be crushed.” She says of the current responses available (writing to representatives, etc.): “None of it promises to be effective, and it certainly won’t pacify my outrage.” So what do these twentysomethings do with their energies in the face of all the wrongs in the world? Martin claims that this generation does its best by choosing careers that they believe will somehow have an impact on society, such as social workers, teachers, and nonprofit workers. Martin’s argument can be summarized in her own words: “My generation knows so much about so much…We are painstakingly composing our Facebook profiles because we…(feel) powerless and unsafe, like the only place to put our energies was inward.”
Analysis of Texts:
In our information-obsessed society, we are now more aware of the happenings in the world than ever before. Daily, we hear of conflicts in Darfur and Burma, child soldiers in Nigeria, extreme poverty, and the massive AIDS crisis in Africa. Not to mention IEDs in Iraq and the global search for terrorists. This current generation of twentysomethings is bombarded with this staggering information and, at the same time, the ideals of the 21st century American Dream. What are these informed young-adults supposed to do with all of this? The generation Friedman labels as “much less radical and politically engaged,” Martin defends as having “a sense of being overwhelmed.” Both authors agree that this generation is well-educated and informed, yet they seem to disagree on the obligation of this generation to the rest of the world. The qualities Friedman accuses, Martin defends, yet neither gives anyone any insight into what actions should be taken by this generation. Friedman seems to end with a somewhat judgmental attitude, while Martin ends only with more excuses for the inactivity. I completely understand both authors’ viewpoints, yet I believe each of them should have given this generation some options for appropriate action, rather than leaving the audience feeling guilty or patronized. I believe that by considering each author’s point-of-view, we can find an appropriate course of action. Of course there is a certain amount of responsibility one feels when presented with pressing information. There is also an amount of personal guilt that comes when one cannot find a way to remedy or alleviate the situation. I believe that there is a way for twentysomethings to take action on current issues, to make a difference, and to not feel overwhelmed by the massive number of causes that need to be taken up in the world. I think that this generation should spend some time researching the topics of today, not just skimming headlines and becoming overwhelmed by the negative things. Upon gaining some in-depth knowledge about a few specific issues, one can brainstorm about any relevant measures that could be taken to help the situation. These ideas should not be brilliant in nature, but rather practical, considering the human element in the situation and what feasible ways one can personally get involved. During this process, I am sure that one project or idea will strike a chord. I believe that by devoting their spare time to helping in a specific cause, twentysomethings will impact the world, and not feel so helpless or overwhelmed. One must also realize that change does not happen in sweeping movements, but little-by-little, and that as more people become aware of just how much power they can have by using their spare time, thoughts and situations around the world can be changed by an informed, motivated generation.
Surprising New View:
This generation of twentysomethings needs to collectively uncover their outrage at world-wide atrocities, and find some medium to collectively channel it into real, effective ways to alleviate societal wrongs.
Felicia Hall
Completed Essay
What's A Twentysomething To Do?
In Charles Johnson’s short story, “Sweet Dreams” we encounter a person who is being outrageously taxed by the government for every dream and daydream they have had over the last year. After reading this short story, I was filled with a sense of gloom that the characters in this fictional world must have also felt. It was as if they had resigned themselves to the oppression of the government. The main character did not even try to fight for lower taxes, but simply paid what the government claimed he owed. This story immediately made me think of the oppressed people around the world, and those who are doing nothing to help. Of course, we know that as citizens of the United States we have many more resources than we could ever need, and, due to the internet, we also know of the plight of the millions of people around the world who are suffering from oppression, both social and physical. Why aren’t we doing anything about it? I pose this question particularly to the current generation of twentysomethings. We’re well-educated and well-informed, yet we do nothing to affect any sort of change. Since 9/11, we have paid more and more attention to world events. We read stories everyday about people that evoke a sense of empathy, fear, and guilt in us. We empathize with their situation, fear that it could someday happen to us, and feel guilty for going about our day like nothing has happened. All of this made me curious: How are American twentysomethings interacting with the rest of the world in a post-9/11 era? I came across two articles on this subject by Thomas Friedman and Courtney Martin. While both Friedman and Martin agree that this generation of young Americans is well-informed on current events and global issues, Friedman is condemning of their lack of action and outrage while Martin insists that these same twentysomethings are simply coping in the face of overwhelming political causes. Let us now look a bit closer at each of these articles.
In his article in the New York Times, Thomas L. Friedman describes his feelings about the current generation of twentysomethings. He calls them “Generation Q” because he sees them as ‘quiet Americans’ because they quietly and privately pursue their ideological worlds at home and abroad in the midst of a world on edge. Friedman grants that this generation is well-educated, well-informed, and sensitive to current global issues, but feels that they aren’t doing enough to effect a change in these issues. He applauds Generation Q for their activism (such as studying abroad to encounter the rest of the world, and volunteering in Africa), yet claims that this is not enough. Friedman accuses this generation of needing to be outraged at the things going on in the world and in their own country. He believes that, despite knowing the statistics, no one from this generation is demanding that something be done about the failing Social Security system or trying to push new measures against global warming into law. He states that the instant gratification of point-and-click has made this generation lazy—“…they can’t e-mail it in, and an online petition or a mouse click for carbon neutrality won’t cut it.” Friedman claims that this lack of outrage/laziness is lessening the impact this generation could have on the world. In regards to Generation Q’s part in the next election, Friedman says, “The candidates could actually use a good kick in the pants…but where is it going to come from?” Friedman’s entire argument can be summed up in his own words: “America needs a jolt of the idealism, activism, and outrage (it must be in there somewhere) of Generation Q. That’s what twentysomethings are for—to light a fire under the country.”
In her article printed in The American Prospect, Courtney E. Martin claims that Friedman has completely misinterpreted her generation by labeling them Generation Q. She states, “Thomas Friedman has mistaken my generation’s absolute paralysis in the face of so many choices, so many causes, and so much awareness, for a mere quiet.” Martin believes that what Friedman has taken as a lack of outrage is simply purposeful distraction on the part of these twentysomethings. She claims that this generation is not quiet and points to the record number of people studying abroad, volunteering across the globe, participating in “Teach for America”, and studying sociology in an attempt to interact with the rest of the world. She asserts that this “Generation Q” is passionate about the things happening in the world—from global warming to the war in Iraq, but cannot find a suitable avenue for their energies in the face of so many causes. Martin says, “If I read the news today with my heart wide open and my mind engaged, I will be crushed.” She says of the current responses available (writing to representatives, etc.): “None of it promises to be effective, and it certainly won’t pacify my outrage.” So what do these twentysomethings do with their energies in the face of all the wrongs in the world? Martin claims that this generation does its best by choosing careers that they believe will somehow have an impact on society, such as social workers, teachers, and nonprofit workers. Martin’s argument can be summarized in her own words: “My generation knows so much about so much…We are painstakingly composing our Facebook profiles because we…(feel) powerless and unsafe, like the only place to put our energies was inward.” So who has rendered the correct verdict?
In our information-obsessed society, we are now more aware of the happenings in the world than ever before. Daily, we hear of conflicts in Darfur and Burma, child soldiers in Nigeria, extreme poverty, and the massive AIDS crisis in Africa. Not to mention IEDs in Iraq and the global search for terrorists. This current generation of twentysomethings is bombarded with this staggering information and, at the same time, the ideals of the 21st century American Dream. What are these informed young-adults supposed to do with all of this? The generation Friedman labels as “much less radical and politically engaged,” Martin defends as having “a sense of being overwhelmed.” Both authors agree that this generation is well-educated and informed, yet they seem to disagree on the obligation of this generation to the rest of the world. The qualities Friedman accuses, Martin defends, yet neither gives anyone any insight into what actions should be taken by this generation. Friedman seems to end with a somewhat judgmental attitude, while Martin ends only with more excuses for the inactivity. I completely understand both authors’ viewpoints, yet I believe each of them should have given this generation some options for appropriate action, rather than leaving the audience feeling guilty or patronized. I believe that by considering each author’s point-of-view, we can find an appropriate course of action. Of course there is a certain amount of responsibility one feels when presented with pressing information. There is also an amount of personal guilt that comes when one cannot find a way to remedy or alleviate the situation. I believe that there is a way for twentysomethings to take action on current issues, to make a difference, and to not feel overwhelmed by the massive number of causes that need to be taken up in the world. I think that this generation should spend some time researching the topics of today, not just skimming headlines and becoming overwhelmed by the negative things. Upon gaining some in-depth knowledge about a few specific issues, one can brainstorm about any relevant measures that could be taken to help the situation. These ideas should not be brilliant in nature, but rather practical, considering the human element in the situation and what feasible ways one can personally get involved. During this process, I am sure that one project or idea will strike a chord. I believe that by devoting their spare time to helping in a specific cause, twentysomethings will impact the world, and not feel so helpless or overwhelmed. One must also realize that change does not happen in sweeping movements, but little-by-little, and that as more people become aware of just how much power they can have by using their spare time, thoughts and situations around the world can be changed by an informed, motivated generation. This generation of twentysomethings needs to collectively uncover their outrage at world-wide atrocities, and find some medium to collectively channel it into real, effective ways to alleviate societal wrongs. In “Sweet Dreams” the tax collector says, “Those who dream always pay the most.” While this may be true, isn’t the eventual outcome of dreaming worth the price?
Works Cited
Friedman, Thomas. “Generation Q.” 10 October 2007. www.nytimes.com/2007/ 1010/opinion/10friedman.html. 26 October 2007.
Martin, Courtney. “Generation Overwhelmed.” 22 October 2007. www.prospect.org/ cs/articles?article=generation_overwhelmed
“Sweet Dreams.” Charles Johnson. Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Sheree R. Thomas. Time Warner Book Group, New York. 2005. 243-248.
LaWanda Jones
1) Focusing Question: How will reparations affect the black community?
2) Thesis: There are pros and cons to African Americans receiving reparations
3a) David Horowitz author of “Ten Reasons Why Reparations for Blacks is a Bad Idea for Blacks - and Racist Too” states that reparations could hurt the African American community more than it would help it. His first point is that one single group is not responsible for slavery. There were many people that contributed to slavery in this country and blaming only the whites is wrong and racist. The next point of the article is that there is not only one group who benefited from slavery. Whites are not the only ones who have benefited from the labor of slaves. Black Americans are benefiting as well. “The GNP of black America is so large that it makes the African-American community the 10th most prosperous "nation" in the world. American blacks on average enjoy per capita incomes in the range of twenty to fifty times that of blacks living in any of the African nations from which they were kidnapped.” (Horowitz). The third point states that only a small number of whites own slaves and more importantly there were just as many whites that fought and dies for the freedom of slaves. Through their fight and the fight of many people the country has become a melting pot of cultures. “and forth arguments point out the fact that America is a multi cultural country. What rationale would require Vietnamese boat people to pay reparations to blacks” (Horowitz). The last five statements point out a black America against America mentality. Combining those together Horowitz states that blacks will not get paid because of injury they will get paid for being black. Unlike the historical precedents used to back the claim of reparations the people getting paid for slavery reparations are not the direct victims or their immediate family. The cry for reparations are based on race not on injury. However, many supporters of reparations feel that due to slavery in the United States, black people have not been fully able to overcome the poverty that followed when slaves were set free with nothing. Horowitz argues that this is due to the failure of individuals to prosper rather than the whole. He states that the black middle class is larger than the black lower class. The call for reparations gives these “failed individuals” a way to play the victim of American slavery. “…an extravagant new handout that is only necessary because some blacks can't seem to locate the ladder of opportunity within reach of others -- many less privileged than themselves” (Horowitz). In his eight point Horowitz states that reparations have already been paid in the trillions of dollars spent for affirmative action and welfare benefits. This in turn inspires point nine which talks about the debt that blacks owe to America for the privileges they have now. Through the death of the white soldiers of the Union army and the Emancipation Proclamation passed by Abraham Lincoln blacks would not have been freed. They also owe a debt to many people of all nationalities who fought to prove that all men are created equal. The last statement takes all his points and brings them together to make the point “The reparations claim as a separatist idea that sets African-Americans against the nation that gave them freedom” (Horowitz). African Americans do not need to separate themselves from the country that has provided liberties and freedom to them. They need America just as America needs them. Throughout history many blacks have paved the way for America to become what it is today. Due to the contribution of all Americans together we are all free.
3b) “But when the black living suffer real and current consequences as a result of wrongs committed by a younger America, then contemporary America must shoulder responsibility for those wrongs until such wrongs have been adequately righted” (Robinson). In his article for the justification of reparations “America’s Debt to Blacks” Randall Robinson argues that America today should pay for the wrongs of “young America”. The responsibilities of a nation are not limited by time or life spans. African Americans like Jews and the Japanese should get what they are owed. Robinson says that unlike the latter two, the call for justice from the African American community has come under attack. No living person today is responsible for slavery or the affects that it has had on the black community. “As a nation” Robinson says, “we must all ponder the repercussions of those acts.” Economic and Social disparities need to be righted before we can go forward as a nation. Slavery has caused a rift between the generations of blacks and whites that followed. The since of inequality still lingers. The fact that African Americans are born into lives brought on by poverty is not fair Robinson writes. African Americans must not forget where they have come from because America has a habit of sweeping its mistakes under a rug. Over the years African Americans have accepted this wrong. African Americans need to do what is necessary to shift Americas thinking of the past. Before America can understand the hardships put on by slavery; blacks need to understand them first. Just like blacks of Rosewood, Florida, and Greenwood, Oklahoma have brought their plight to the nation, African Americans as a whole need to bring forth the plight of slavery and its repercussions. The struggle for reparations and a right to the past wrongs is something all Americans must support if the country is to ever have a new beginning where all Americans are equal in every aspect.
5)New View: If reparations were given to the African American community, how many people would use the money for others?
paper:
Jill Robinson’s “BLACKout” tells the story of Nigel a Jamaican American living in Brooklyn. The county has passed Bill S9821 which promises to compensate African Americans for the slavery of their ancestors. Nigel finds that he is ineligible for compensation because his family did not arrive from American slaves. This upsets Nigel. Nigel along with the other black people who are not eligible begin protesting by not working. This is called in the book by White Supremacy books the BLACKout. The passing of the bill has turned blacks in America against American born descendants of black African slaves. Nigel decides to leave the country and go somewhere he can be the outsider he is treated as in America. “…if I’m going to be treated like a non-citizen or an outsider, then I might a well be one” (Robinson 241). The subject of reparations has always been a debatable topic. There are pros and cons to African Americans receiving reparations for the work of their slave ancestors.
David Horowitz author of “Ten Reasons Why Reparations for Blacks is a Bad Idea for Blacks - and Racist Too” states that reparations could hurt the African American community more than it would help it. His first point is that one single group is not responsible for slavery. There were many people that contributed to slavery in this country and blaming only the whites is wrong and racist. The next point of the article is that there is not only one group who benefited from slavery. Whites are not the only ones who have benefited from the labor of slaves. Black Americans are benefiting as well. “The GNP of black America is so large that it makes the African-American community the 10th most prosperous "nation" in the world. American blacks on average enjoy per capita incomes in the range of twenty to fifty times that of blacks living in any of the African nations from which they were kidnapped.” (Horowitz). The third point states that only a small number of whites own slaves and more importantly there were just as many whites that fought and dies for the freedom of slaves. Through their fight and the fight of many people the country has become a melting pot of cultures. “What rationale would require Vietnamese boat people to pay reparations to blacks” (Horowitz).
The last five statements point out a black America against America mentality. Combining those together Horowitz states that blacks will not get paid because of injury they will get paid for being black. Unlike the historical precedents used to back the claim of reparations the people getting paid for slavery reparations are not the direct victims or their immediate family.
“But when the black living suffer real and current consequences as a result of wrongs committed by a younger America, then contemporary America must shoulder responsibility for those wrongs until such wrongs have been adequately righted” (Robinson). In his article for the justification of reparations:”America’s Debt to Blacks” Randall Robinson argues that America today should pay for the wrongs of “young America”. The responsibilities of a nation are not limited by time or life spans. African Americans like Jews and the Japanese should get what they are owed. Robinson says that unlike the latter two, the call for justice from the African American community has come under attack. No living person today is responsible for slavery or the affects that it has had on the black community. “As a nation” Robinson says, “we must all ponder the repercussions of those acts.” Economic and Social disparities need to be righted before we can go forward as a nation. Slavery has caused a rift between the generations of blacks and whites that followed. The since of inequality still lingers. The fact that African Americans are born into lives brought on by poverty is not fair Robinson writes.
Both authors provided the reader with great insight into their thoughts on reparations. Do I think reparations should be paid to African Americans? My answer is not important in this paper. My new idea however is. African Americans need to look in the mirror and find out how much of our individual oppression is brought on by self. There is oppression on the African American community from an outside source but most African Americans today complain about that oppression but do nothing to stop it. It is as though they have accepted it. What would happen if America really did give descendants of African slaves 40 million dollars. I lot of the people I know would not use that money wisely. Giving the opportunity to uplift the African American community would people actually do it?
Work Cited
Horowitz, David. Ten Reasons
Why Reparations for Blacks is a Bad Idea for Blacks - and Racist Too. FrontPage Magazine.com. January 03, 2001 http://www.frontpagemag.com/Articles/Read.aspx?GUID={23D875B0-65A3-44A3-A27B-14831CCB4107}
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones.
Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books., 2004. 248.
Robinson, Randall. America‘s Debt to Blacks. TheNation.com
February 23, 2000. http://www.thenation.com/doc/20000313/robinson
Jeannie K. Holmes
November 5, 2007
EH 486
Essay #5
Economic Impact of Paying Racial Reparations
Focusing question:
What are the possible economic impacts of paying racial reparations?
Thesis statement:
Paying racial reparations, as outlined in Jill Robinson's short story BLACKout, would negatively impact the United States economy and is an unrealistic ideal.
Summary of Robinson's work:
Jill Robinson’s short story, BLACKout, explores the social impact of the United States paying reparations to the descendants of African slaves. The bill that authorizes the payment – S9821, or “the Guilt Bill” – offers forty million dollars to those who can prove they are the “American-born descendants of Black African slaves purchased and owned for use in the United States of America” (Robinson 235) and are at least “a full three-quarters black.” (Robinson 236) The main character of the story, Nigel, is deemed ineligible because his parents came from Jamaica. BLACKout explores the concept of intraracism – the hatred of one’s own ethnic group – and ultimately ends with Nigel abandoning any allegiance to county or ethnicity.
Summary of Freeman's work:
One of the first encounters Nigel has after the passing of the Guilt Bill is with an unnamed man in the New York subway. The man offers Nigel a free shirt picturing a mule on the front and the words “Forty Acres” on the back, a clear reference to the “forty acres and a mule” promised to freed slaves after the Civil War. Although there has been much debate over the origins of this promise, the most likely source is the orders and actions of General Tecumseh Sherman after his march through the American South.
On January 16, 1865, Sherman issued Special Field Order No. 15, which provided that:
“The islands of Charleston south, the abandoned rice fields along the rivers for thirty miles back from the sea, and the country bordering St. Johns River, Florida, are reserved and set apart for the settlement of [N]egroes now made free by the acts of war and the proclamation of the President of the United States.”
The land specified in the Order was divided into forty-acre tracts and processory land titles were issued to the head of each family of freed slaves, along with animals – primarily mules and horses – that were no longer useful to the military. However, Andrew Johnson later rescinded that order and the land was given back to the former white plantation owners. (Freeman)
Robison’s fictional account of the social impact of a “Guilt Bill” being passed is certainly interesting. However, what would be the real-life economic ramifications of paying reparations for American enslavement of Africans?
Summary of Osabu-Kle's work:
In a January 2000 article for the Journal of Black Studies, Daniel Tetteh Osabu-Kle gives the following estimated amount owed to descendants of American slaves:
Based on the Warsaw Convention of assigning value to loss of human life, compensation for each human life irrespective of race when an aircraft crashes is $75,000. … [T]he present value of reparation for human loss to Africa alone is $75,000 billion U.S. dollars or $75 trillion U.S. dollars. (Osabu-Kle 344)
At the time Osabu-Kle wrote his article, the United States national debt was already at $5,674,178,209,886.86 (TreasuryDirect.gov) or $5.6 trillion dollars. The amount specified by Osabu-Kle is roughly 8.34 times more than the current national debt of $9 trillion dollars – actual national debt amount being $9,079,086,185,866.28 as of October 31, 2007 (TreasuryDirect.gov).
Synthesis of texts:
The concept of paying reparations for past atrocities is not new. For example, Germany has paid $61.8 billion (figure from 1998) in reparations to Israel since 1951 for Nazi persecution of Jews during World War II. (The Journal of Historical Review) However, paying $75 trillion dollars would bankrupt the American government and cut funding across the board, including military defense, public assistance programs, health care, and education.
Surprising new view:
Few can argue that slavery of any ethnic group is not a terrible injustice or that the injustices leveled against Black American carried on for decades after the Civil War. However, we as a society – regardless of ethnicity – must ask ourselves the following question when discussing slavery reparations: How much of our future are we willing to sacrifice to pay for our past?
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Completed essay:
Jeannie K. Holmes
November 5, 2007
EH 486
Essay #5
Economic Impact of Paying Racial Reparations
Jill Robinson’s short story, BLACKout, explores the social impact of the United States paying reparations to the descendants of African slaves. The bill that authorizes the payment – S9821, or “the Guilt Bill” – offers forty million dollars to those who can prove they are the “American-born descendants of Black African slaves purchased and owned for use in the United States of America” (Robinson 235) and are at least “a full three-quarters black.” (Robinson 236) The main character of the story, Nigel, is deemed ineligible because his parents came from Jamaica. BLACKout explores the concept of intraracism – the hatred of one’s own ethnic group – and ultimately ends with Nigel abandoning any allegiance to county or ethnicity.
One of the first encounters Nigel has after the passing of the Guilt Bill is with an unnamed man in the New York subway. The man offers Nigel a free shirt picturing a mule on the front and the words “Forty Acres” on the back, a clear reference to the “forty acres and a mule” promised to freed slaves after the Civil War. Although there has been much debate over the origins of this promise, the most likely source is the orders and actions of General Tecumseh Sherman after his march through the American South.
On January 16, 1865, Sherman issued Special Field Order No. 15, which provided that:
“The islands of Charleston south, the abandoned rice fields along the rivers for thirty miles back from the sea, and the country bordering St. Johns River, Florida, are reserved and set apart for the settlement of [N]egroes now made free by the acts of war and the proclamation of the President of the United States.”
The land specified in the Order was divided into forty-acre tracts and processory land titles were issued to the head of each family of freed slaves, along with animals – primarily mules and horses – that were no longer useful to the military. However, Andrew Johnson later rescinded that order and the land was given back to the former white plantation owners. (Freeman)
Robison’s fictional account of the social impact of a “Guilt Bill” being passed is certainly interesting. However, what would be the real-life economic ramifications of paying reparations for American enslavement of Africans?
In a January 2000 article for the Journal of Black Studies, Daniel Tetteh Osabu-Kle gives the following estimated amount owed to descendants of American slaves:
Based on the Warsaw Convention of assigning value to loss of human life, compensation for each human life irrespective of race when an aircraft crashes is $75,000. … [T]he present value of reparation for human loss to Africa alone is $75,000 billion U.S. dollars or $75 trillion U.S. dollars. (Osabu-Kle 344)
At the time Osabu-Kle wrote his article, the United States national debt was already at $5,674,178,209,886.86 (TreasuryDirect.gov) or $5.6 trillion dollars. The amount specified by Osabu-Kle is roughly 8.34 times more than the current national debt of $9 trillion dollars – actual national debt amount being $9,079,086,185,866.28 as of October 31, 2007 (TreasuryDirect.gov).
The concept of paying reparations for past atrocities is not new. For example, Germany has paid $61.8 billion (figure from 1998) in reparations to Israel since 1951 for Nazi persecution of Jews during World War II. (The Journal of Historical Review) However, paying $75 trillion dollars would bankrupt the American government and cut funding across the board, including military defense, public assistance programs, health care, and education.
Few can argue that slavery of any ethnic group is not a terrible injustice or that the injustices leveled against Black American carried on for decades after the Civil War. However, we as a society – regardless of ethnicity – must ask ourselves the following question when discussing slavery reparations: How much of our future are we willing to sacrifice to pay for our past?
Works Cited
Freeman, Gerene L. “What about My Forty Acres & A Mule?” Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute. http://www.yale.edu/ynhti/curriculum/units/1994/4/94.04.01.x.html
“Germany Has Paid Out More Than $61.8 Billion in Third Reich Reparations.” The Journal of Historical Review. Vol. 17, No. 6. Nov.-Dec. 1998.
National Debt Information. TreasuryDirect.gov. November 2, 2007.
Osabu-Kle, Daniel Tetth. “The African Reparation Cry: Rationale, Estimate, Prospects, and Strategies.” Journal of Black Studies. Vol. 30, No. 3. January 2000.
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Sheree R. Thomas, Ed. Warner: New York. 2004.
Erica White
11/2/07
Essay 5
The focusing questions for this essay are: What kind of country would America be if Black people did not stand and fight for equality? And if Blacks left America and retraced their history, what type of position would that leave this country in? In class we discussed the essay “Blackout” by Jill Robinson. This essay deals with Black power and White guilt. I read “From Slavery to Freedom” by John Hope Franklin and Alfred A. Moss Jr., which touched on various subjects such as: race reconciliation, Black Power Movement, and Black Revolution.
Jill Robinson’s essay “Blackout” dealt with white people feeling guilty for the treatment towards Blacks. It also dealt with division, I saw Blacks being divided like the light shin house slaves and the dark skin cotton picking slaves. The reading touched on discrimination and self hate amongst ones own race. “Maybe White America will take the Senate hearings seriously now that the BLACKout’s stripped it of their migrant workers, housekeepers, secretaries, airport crews, and janitors” this quote shows that Robinson sees the need to have Black people in this country or business would close because Blacks are the ones who work the low paying jobs. The essay also suggest how it would be impossible for Blacks to just walk away from their jobs, because they can’t afford to.
“From Slavery to Freedom” by Franklin and Moss explained how the Black Power movement gave Blacks a chance to voice their beliefs and form an organization that was for Black people needs. This book dealt with solutions for old problems. I think the Black Revolution helped some Blacks, but it also caused problems. Some Whites during this time felt the need to help Blacks out because they felt guilty. I think this is where the reparation bill comes into play. Robinson called it the guilt bill and I agree.
If Black people were to leave America this country would fall into a deep hole. America would not survive if Blacks and Immigrants strike against the workforce and America. It would be impossible for all Blacks and Immigrants to leave America, but the possibility is overwhelming. If it was not for Black Power movements and Blacks standing up for equality, we would still be living in a more openly country of discrimination. Today there is still a lot of racism and discrimination, but its hidden.
Sanavieai Brazeal
Essay/Paper5
Does race play a pivotal role in our education? And if so is it for the best interest of the intended individuals? Walter Mosley touches on these ideas and more in Whispers in the Dark. We encounter a little boy who in the eyes of everyone is very smart. When his Aunt Hazel comes over to visit, she realizes that Popo is very intelligent and quite frankly a born genius. She quickly tells her Auntie Misty that he needs to be tested and trained by an elite school for the gifted. Of course, the tight-knit family is against it. His Uncle Chill adamantly tells his opinion. He believes that Popo belongs with his family and does not need white folks to turn him against himself. The black family has engrained in their children that you must strive to succeed. There motto is that we came over here with nothing. What we work for is what is going to sustain us in the grueling years to come. There are plenty of schools for “geniuses”, yet children are not given the benefits because of family obligations. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote: "The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race."
At face value, this is a principle dear to American hearts. No one of goodwill could disagree, yet, as applied, the idea powerfully split the high court as the justices decided 5 to 4 to bar school systems from explicitly considering student race in attempting to maintain classroom diversity.To the majority, the decision affirmed that officials can't constitutionally use skin color in barring a child from attending his or her school of choice. To the minority, it represented an abandonment of legal precedents that gave the government muscle to order desegregation to end the separate and unequal education
opportunities that led to the civil rights revolution. Both sides claimed the authority of the court's historic Brown vs. Board of Education decree.
More than a half-century after Brown, and in a nation that has made marked strides toward equality, it was inevitable that the court would be called on to decide the limits of how race may be used to achieve social goals. The case arose out of districts that were fostering diversity by considering race in admissions. It pitted the constitutional rights of children who were excluded by race against the clear value of integration. The No Child Left Behind law makes closing the achievement gap a centerpiece of policy, and school aid levels have been boosted in New York to pour money into so-called high-needs schools. The way to go, first and foremost, is to provide quality education in every neighborhood while encouraging diversity by building programs that attract children of all races. Daily News (New York)
If anything, the role that education plays in the life prospects of black Americans is even more dramatic than in the population as a whole. It's the closest thing to a magic potion for black people that I can think of. For boys and men, it is very often the antidote to prison or an early grave.A new report from the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University in Boston tells us that young adults in general have been struggling in the labor market. Many have been left behind by the modest economic recovery of the past few years, especially those with limited education credentials. The achievements of black pupils increase dramatically when they are given support and guidance. [The New York Times]
Kathryn Garikes
EH 498 101
November 5, 2007
Focusing question: Is Nationality a race, and why does it matter which race an individual belongs to?
Thesis: In the short story’s Black Out, by Jill Robinson, and Whispers in the Dark, by Walter Mosley, each of the characters has to overcome and discover something that change the course of their lives.
200-250 word summary of Black Out:
The story opens in Harlem, where Nigel, the main character, waits for a train at the station. He is on his way to his home in Brooklyn and coming from his girlfriend Alana’s home in Harlem. All around him people are congratulating one another for the passing of S9821 Bill, “the reparations bill that promises to compensate American citizens of African descent for years of unpaid slave labor.” This bill sounds like great news, but does not affect Nigel, Alana, or his two friends Lennox and Akiel. Their parents and grandparents were not American-born and that is one of the many stipulations. Many Blacks begin to go on strike, “now transit systems, cab service, and trash collection has come to a halt.” At an organized protest, Nigel sees and hears Kwali Mohammed, the president of the NAACP, Margaret Washington, and Harpton. Harpton begins to speak and no one agreed or trusted him. Mohammed tells the people to “Let the white man pay you, but don’t put his money back into his pocket.” Nigel has an epiphany and runs home to tell Alana. He feels that neither New York nor Jamaica, where his Grandmother lives, is home, so he decides to start over, but Alana is content with the way America is and chooses to stay. At the immigration office the immigration offices asks “Race?” “Black.” And the says “Nationality” and Nigel says “none.” After several moments the officer stamps his passport and says “We all Black People.”
200-250 word summary of Whispers in the Dark:
The story opens with Misty Bent and her niece Hazel Bernard having a conversation about Popo’s education and future. The two women disagree, Misty and her son Chilly want to keep Popo safe and at home, and Hazel wants Popo to be tested and sent away to school. The authorities approached Chill at home, and Chill sent them away telling him that Popo would not be attending a state school. However, Chill needed money to ensure that Popo could get home schooled and then attend EEG’s Prime Com Link. From there he could go to Jesse Jackson Gymnasium. Popo was very smart, understanding radio sound waves that no one else could hear or understand. Kai Lin, the woman who cut his hair, was his friend and came to visit the family a lot. For a few weeks, Chill went out of town and called and then wrote a letter. Six weeks after Chill had gone, an ambulance returned Chill home on a stretcher. He was missing his eyes, a nerve in his spine, and his man-hood. He did all this to ensure Popo’s, Kai Lin’s, and his mother’s future. Kai Lin married him and took care of them. It was not an uncommon thing for poor men and women to sale body parts for money. Popo placed electric currents on both Chill and Misty’s head and sent them on to Heaven. He was later tried and convicted to life.
500 word Analysis:
In both short story’s, Black Out and Whispers in the Dark, the characters sacrifice some part of their being so that either they or the people around them can advance to a higher social station and a better life. In the story Black Out, Nigel decides to take his future into his own hands. He decides that the government and society are not going to determine his social ranking and/or if he deserves to be called an American citizen. He does not need to prove he is black or white enough to anyone if he declares that is Nationality is none, which he does. At the end of the story he begins a new start in a new place where hopefully if there is racism it won’t be found within his own race. In the story Whispers in the Dark, Chill decides to also take matters into his own hands. He chooses to ensure his and his families stability by sacrificing his own body parts. This story is a more gruesome example then the text in Black Out, but it does get the message across that you can control your own destiny no matter what the costs. He decided that selling his body was worth becoming rich and stable.
The audience to which these stories are directed is everyone. Each story deals with racism and social ranking and how an individual can overcome the system as long as they are willing to sacrifice and make changes. The genre is science fiction and the appeal of the story is not to focus of nationality or social class, but the individual determination and drive found in a person. The authors, both Robinson and Mosley, express their views in absurd ways. Robinson creates a far-out plot in Black Out with the S9821 Bill. This bill would never happen even with “White Guilt” because there are not enough liberals that feel that whites today owe past Black American slaves money. The bill is a good way to overcome the guilt, but would never happen in today’s society and government. Mosley, in “Whispers in the Dark”, focuses on the gruesome facts of life to portray his message. He acts as if it is common for poor people to sale their body parts for money. In this story, this notion is accepted without question, and if this concept is a true and practicing occurrence in today’s world, it should be ended.
I think it is interesting that both titles to each story include a reference to darkness, or the unknown or undiscovered. “Black Out” refers to when the characters went on strike and stopped working. The city did not run, so White supremacy groups coined the term Black Out. “Whispers in the Dark” could refer to the voice of God that Popo heard through the radio and television waves or it could refer to Chill speaking to Popo, Misty, or Kai Lin. When Chill spoke, he saw only darkness with the lack of both of his eyes.
Risky View:
After analyzing both texts, Black Out and Whispers in the Dark, it is apparent that people will go to great lengths to disregard their race and social ranking. Both texts make me question how important these things really are. Why does Nationality matter, or the government and society have so much power and control over its people and their choices?
Works Cited:
Mosley, Walter. Whispers in the Dark. Dark Matter, Reading the Bones. ed. Sherre R. Thomas. New York: Warner Brothers Inc, 2004.
Robinson, Jill. BlackOut. Dark Matters, Reading the Bones. ed. Sherre R. Thomas. New York: Warner Brothers Inc, 2004.
Focusing Question?
How do we change, and stop our government from having too much power before our world turns into Charles Johnson's world in "Sweet Dreams"?
Summary and Analysis of "Sweet Dreams"
The story is set in 2008, written in 2004. It's told in first person so that the reader can really get into the character, and understand the plight at hand. You visit someone who has been hired to audit dream machines, and make sure that you are paying for the dreams you are having. The major point of the story is to show where our world will be heading if people in power are able to keep enforcing ridiculous laws to further control and tax us. In the end, you find out you owe an extremely large amount for dreams, daydreams. The government doesn't want anyone to dream because dreams are dangerous, hope is dangerous. Its scary.
Surprising new view:
The only way to keep this from happening is to become more independant as a people. We don't need the government to decide everything, we just need to be more compassionate and work together without them, because they are no longer representing us. Any of us. They represent themselves. only.
In Charles Johnson’s, Sweet Dreams, the overall theme is with time. The world is heading in a very scary direction fast. Government is getting too large, and the decisions they are making (decisions for the overall good) are taking away our freedoms. Many would argue that even though the real world isn’t as extreme as the story, this is the future we are heading for.
Even now, laws are being put into place that are for our own good. Many would argue that this is unfair, and that our national government is acting as big brother. I agree. The whole reason we “have” a representative democracy, is so that everyone’s opinion will go into consideration. But our national government isn’t deciding based on what civilians they represent, they are deciding based on political parties and accepted ideas and movements within the subculture of Washington politics. The majority is dead, and doesn’t matter to them anymore. No one votes. No one knows what to do. Is there hope? I believe so.
The major problem with our people is that three-fourths of them rely on the national government for everything (for programs and income, and ideas and opinions). There are two major groups that are often divided among party lines. They are not. One major group or type cries out to national government on every issue. “This isn’t right, and we want you to make it right. Pass a law, do anything. You have to help us because you are our national government.” This is a major problem with our political system. The government is run by balancing Hollywood with New York in the media, and Washington uses these cries and outreached hands to pass new laws further controlling the people. The laws are well written and often leave no loopholes. The power they grant themselves is often much more than what was needed to answer the pleas for help. The other side, which obviously has less support from Hollywood and big business, wants us to pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps. We should.
Why should we have to rely on a government to make sure that our freedoms aren’t being overpowered, our opinions going unheard? Why should we expect them to help? Have our state governments lost too much power? I think so. There is a sense of Americanism that has been overpowering for many years. Now it is turning negative, both locally and worldwide. There aren’t many people who are happy with everything, and everyone has someone to blame it on.
My opinion is that there is no government that can nationally rule over as much land and people as we have here. There are too many opinions, and when a decision is made on a national level, more people are left out of the majority than if the same decisions were made on a state level. This has never worked for a long period of time in any nation or country or kingdom in millions of years. We are repeating mistakes of the past, but the majority doesn’t even see this because our public educational system is run by the government, and therefore, crappy. And our “educated” elected officials don’t see this because they have money over their eyes. Our states are about the same size as countries in Europe, so why can’t our states have as much power as they do. We can all be united states. Get it? United States. We’re supposed to have powerful states that can take care of their people on more of a local level, only united in world issues. Otherwise, wouldn’t they have just called it America?
So how do we change it? Do we run around in the streets with our hands up saying, “Help us National Government, make it right!” (make it worse). No. It starts on the local level, given that that’s really the only level that majorly effects the civilian individual. We have to be a more compassionate, helping people, not because the government makes us that way, but because we truly want a better life, and an even better life for our children, and an even better life for their children. Too many decisions are being made over our heads for reasons unstated. Too many people think that they are too important, and that their opinions should be forced onto others who don’t share the same views. Too many people blame their problems on others, when they have every opportunity to have a great life. We have to fix it. I won’t live in Charles Johnson’s world. Already, our dreams are billed and taxed, just not with high tech machines.
Lauren Broussard
J00418074
Paper 5
Focusing Question:
What makes youth of the twentieth century focus every decision and their personal lives to revolve around money?
Thesis Statement:
In a youthful society where every man fights to be equal, understood, and justified, money is the root of every decision we make. I will explore this thought with the research of youth today and their social thoughts on money being exemplified through music and television entertainment.
200-500 word Summary
It’s sad to speak the truth about our society today and the decisions we make based on money. It is even more compelling to understand the youthful influences that make this thought apparent in the juvenile society of America. In a society where television and technologies steer and trigger the thoughts of youth, money is inflicted and focused on tremendously. Many of the songs and television shows encourage the demand for money through exemplifying power. For example, in the song “Money, Power” By Big Timers, we are introduced to the lyrics showing power and respect through the refreain: “If you could be me for an hour, have money and power, stand tall and ball and send your records to tower you would love that (Hot, Hot) you would love that (Hot, Hot)” . Another example of music portraying money through power is through Browse Fury’s “The Slaughterhouse”. In their lyrics, they portray the thoughts of youth today: “What opens doors for you in the restaurants? What makes you realize your dreams? What let’s you buy cars and cars, one for every day. Just what you really need? Money rules let’s buy the world. Money rules let’s rule the world. Money rules forget the world. Money rules let’s crack the world. What makes the movie beauties smile at you? What makes your bogies shine like gold? What makes your doctor be your best friend when you visit him? What makes the bank-clerks smile and sing and they sing (Repeat)”. In songs like this, the power money holds is once again imbedded into the youthful minds. I asked a student of South Alabama, Holly Smith, her idea on the focus of money power in songs today. She replied, “If every one would just stop talking about how important money is in your life to be happy, I am sure many youth of today who don’t have positive influences to direct them otherwise would not have so much desire in the power of money.”
200-500 word summary
The personal power of money is also exemplified through the youth today through enjoyment of box office movies and video games. One example of this is the well known movie “Scare face”. The film Scarface was released more than 20 years ago, but it continues to inspire wannabe thugs and nihilistic megalomaniacs to this day. The movie centers around the power money can do for you and the illegal ways of getting it. As popular and action-packed as the film is, it makes sense that it would be tapped as source material for a video game. What's surprising about the Play Station Portable game, “Scarface: Money. Power. Respect.”, is that it doesn't just slap a familiar license on a generic action game. Instead of testing your trigger speed, Scarface tests your business acumen by challenging you to manage the operations of a drug cartel and money gain. The subject matter isn't for everyone just like the movie. But of course we all know that never happens and ends up in the hands of our youth today. Not only does this movie and game influence the youth toward the power of money, but also influences them in a negative way. The relationship of drugs and money are very apparent throughout the movie. Certain youth of today take influences like this and imply them to their own lives. This is done all for the power of money.
Analysis of text:
We all look at situations like this and think them to be nothing but controversial. We try to steer away from risky situations and just fall into the trap like everyone else does. The point here is that people today don’t know how to live without the power gained from money. We all point our fingers and blame things like video games and music lyrics persuading our youth. But we have to understand how true that statement is. Society today directs our youth into thinking one cannot live if not thought to be in the social higher class. And certain lyrics, movies, and games help this to be true. Many youth today are influenced extremely if not entirely on the persuasion of popular fads. Most of these fads are focused on the power gained when owning money. This thought is so strong, that many youth go through violence, illegal actions, and life changing decisions to have this gained power. But what do we do? It’s one thing to turn off the television. But putting our children into the public eye makes them prone to this negative persuasion. Luckily, there are many youth groups and counseling centers that help the youth to gain positive knowledge. I was amazed in researching youth help centers and focus groups at the large amounts available to the community. The only problem is trying to get these children there. We must all focus and help our youth today to be steered in the rite direction. Society tries to destroy what we input. But, with the unity of working on banning video games and keeping children out of adult movies, we can work as one to help.
Statement of Risky of Suprising New View:
The situation will never be worked out completely. But I know at one point in our lives we will have to influence someone of the younger generation in money decisions and personal power through doing the positive thing when dealing with money power. When you are challenged with this decision, I hope you will remember my paper.
Whitney Hubbert
Leading Question
What is the alternative when life is too horrible to handle?
Thesis Statement
Although in Johnson and Robinson’s essay both characters are involved in situations they wish to solve, both go about solving it different ways. In Sweet Dreams the character discusses his problem, where as in BLACKout Nigel decides to runaway from his problem.
Summary of Johnson’s text
Nightmares are meant to happen when you are sleeping. For many people, however, nightmares occur on a daily basis. For some people, nightmares are their lives. In Charles Johnson’s essay Sweet Dreams, this was the case. The Auditor wants to know what happened to the 210 dreams he did not account for in his dream tax. He responded he did not enjoy these dreams; they were more like nightmares. The Auditor charges him for those unaccounted dreams/nightmares. The Auditor also goes over some of his dreams with him to let him know why he owes so much money. He explains that the longer the dream, the more money it costs. In addition, nightmares are three times higher in tax. The Auditor went on and mentioned why people started paying for dreams; but the main character seemed too shocked to even care. Once he paid the Auditor the $91,645.14 check, he asked the Auditor a question… “Does he, the Auditor, dream?” The Auditor responded by saying he could not afford it; then he looked at the check he
just received and smiled.
Summary of Robinson’s text
Have you ever felt like you just did not fit in, no matter what you said or did? Well, Nigel felt that way, in more ways than one. His love, Alana, lived in Harlem; but Nigel lived in Brooklyn. Because of the distance, Nigel had to take the train to see Alana. One day, while Nigel was on the bus going to see Alana, the best news broke out for all American Blacks. They passed the S9821. “The reparations bill that promises to compensate American citizens of African descent for years of unpaid slave labor.” You would think Nigel would be excited about this, but there was a problem. Nigel knows that since his parents were not born American citizens, he not have a part in the bill. He gets really mad at people who are just like him, but think they are going to get paid, too. He feels as if he has no home. He goes to Jamaica, but just as before, he does not fit in. Nigel does the first thing that comes to his head… He runs away. The only thing he is sure about is the color of his skin.
Analysis of text
In conclusion, I have stated the problems both character’s encounter in each essay. Although both have
problems, they solve their problems in different ways. In
Johnson’s essay, the character has proven Herbert Marcuse’s theory on authority. He believes that no authority of government at power is needed for liberating tolerance. This is what happens when you dream. The character does just that. When he dreams, he does not think about anything else. In Robinson’s essay, Nigel decided to take his problem in his own hands. Nigel ran away to try to find his identity. For some people running away can be a positive way of solving their problem, but for others, the problem just tags along.
Statement of Risky or Surprising New View
When life is too horrible to handle, take a nap and have sweet dreams. Otherwise, your problems will come back to haunt you. The real challenge is to confront the situation and find ways to prevent horrible living.
Completed ESSAY
What is the alternative when life is too horrible to handle? Although in Johnson and Robinson’s essay both characters are involved in situations they wish to solve, both go about solving it different ways. In Sweet Dreams the character discusses his problem, where as in BLACKout Nigel decides to runaway from his problem.
Nightmares are meant to happen when you are sleeping. For many people, however, nightmares occur on a daily basis. For some people, nightmares are their lives. In Charles Johnson’s essay Sweet Dreams, this was the case. The Auditor wants to know what happened to the 210 dreams he did not account for in his dream tax. He responded he did not enjoy these dreams; they were more like nightmares. The Auditor charges him for those unaccounted dreams/nightmares. The Auditor also goes over some of his dreams with him to let him know why he owes so much money. He explains that the longer the dream, the more money it costs. In addition, nightmares are three times higher in tax. The Auditor went on and mentioned why people started paying for dreams; but main character seemed too shocked to even care. Once he paid the Auditor the $91,645.14 check, he asked the Auditor a question… “Does he, the Auditor, dream?” The Auditor responded by saying he could not afford it; then he looked at the check he just received and smiled.
Have you ever felt like you just did not fit in, no matter what you said or did? Well, Nigel felt that way, in more ways than one. His love, Alana, lived in Harlem; but Nigel lived in Brooklyn. Because of the distance, Nigel had to take the train to see Alana. One day, while Nigel was on the bus going to see Alana, the best news broke out for all American Blacks. They passed the S9821. “The reparations bill that promises to compensate American citizens of African descent for years of unpaid slave labor.” You would think Nigel would be excited about this, but there was a problem. Nigel knows that since his parents were not born American citizens, he not have a part in the bill. He gets really mad at people who are just like him, but think they are going to get paid, too. He feels as if he has no home. He goes to Jamaica, but just as before, he does not fit in. Nigel does the first thing that comes to his head… He runs away. The only thing he is sure about is the color of his skin.
In conclusion, I have stated the problems both character’s encounter in each essay. Although both have problems, they solve their problems in different ways. In Johnson’s essay, the character has proven Herbert Marcuse’s theory on authority. He believes that no authority of government at power is needed for liberating tolerance. This is what happens when you dream. The character does just that. When he dreams, he does not think about anything else. In Robinson’s essay, Nigel decided to take his problem in his own hands. Nigel ran away to try to find his identity. For some people running away can be a positive way of solving their problem, but for others, the problem just tags along.When life is too horrible to handle, take a nap and have sweet dreams. Otherwise, your problems will come back to haunt you. The real challenge is to confront the situation and find ways to prevent horrible living.
Works Cited
Johnson, Charles. “Sweet Dreams.” Dark Matter: Reading The Bones. Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books, 2004. 243-248.
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading The Bones. Ed. Sheree R. Thomas. New York: Warner Books, 2004. 232-242.
Comments from Felicia Hall for Essay 5
For Bridget:
You did a great job of comparing and contrasting the two articles. I liked the way you synthesized between the two. While I do not agree with your conclusion, the questions you raised in your essay are certainly valid and deserve to be thought about.
For LaWanda:
Excellent choice of article. I liked your new idea about individual oppression. Your essay certainly got me thinking about how big a role personal responsibility plays when trying to place blame for certain situations.
For Jeannie:
Your essay was very intriguing. I had never thought about the economic impact reparations could have on the country. The figures you found were impressive and helped to drive home your new view.
For Erica:
You did a good job of connecting BLACKout with Franklin and Moss’ book. I enjoyed your discussion of the Black Power Movement, but wish you would have elaborated a bit more on that topic.
For Sanavieai:
You new view was very surprising, yet seems like it might be easily implemented given the right amount of attention by Americans and their representatives.
For Kathryn:
I like the correlation you found between the two stories and the use of darkness. Also, your risky new view calls for some attention. It made me think of the things people do/believe in simply because of their nationality and how these things can be both positive and negative.
For Kennon:
I agree with your position that people should take a more active role in the government and make sure their voice is heard. Your last line is brilliant.
For Lauren:
Very interesting and relevant topic. I completely agree with your assertion that this generation needs to purposefully and actively steer the next generation in a different direction.
For Whitney:
Good job in seeing how the characters reacted differently in the stories. I liked your advice to confront the bad situations we find ourselves in.
Kirsten Altice
Focusing question:
Would reparations be a negative impact on a confused world?
Thesis statement:
Money is the root of all evil in this world. Unfortunately, reparations would have a negative impact upon this confused world.
Summary of Robinson's work:
In Jill Robinson’s, “Blackout,” issues of reparations are addressed. Throughout the story, individuals are so caught up with receiving money for pain and suffering that they pay no attention to how their community is deteriorating from the effects of it. The community was falling apart because everyone was succumbing to the pressures of buying material goods. Instead of using the money positively everyone began using the money on unnecessary items.
Synthesis of text:
The benefits should be used in order to strengthen the community as a whole. However, the only thing that would be on people’s minds would be Nike, cars, houses of inadequate proportion, and other unnecessary items. The market would target Black America also. Just as quickly as the money was handed out, it would be back in the hands of the government. Those who spent their money too quickly would rob and kill for other’s money. Not only would it cause a divide among the Whites and Blacks in the nation, but also it would rip Black America apart. It is unfair for the people of today to be considered responsible for yesterday’s mistakes. If that were the case, many individuals would be paying for the crimes of their families.
Surprising new view:
The world is very confused just as in this story. If people would work to make their dreams come true and live for the present and future, but learn from the past life society would be greater. If reparations were ever received, they would be the destruction of Black America as we know it.
Reparations: A Negative Impact upon a Confused World
During slavery, Black Americans were subjected to lynching, discrimination, segregation, and many other demeaning acts. Today there are still individuals that feel reparations are due for the pain and suffering caused by the emotional and physical abuse caused by White Americans during that time. Reparations for slavery suggest that the government apologize to the slave descendants for all that was done to them, not only in the form of money but also orally. I feel as if reparations in the monetary form are not the answer for these problems that occurred at that time. Money is the root of all evil in this world. Unfortunately, reparations would have a negative impact upon this confused world.
In Jill Robinson’s, “Blackout,” issues of reparations are addressed. Throughout the story, individuals are so caught up with receiving money for pain and suffering that they pay no attention to how their community is deteriorating from the effects of it. The community was falling apart because everyone was succumbing to the pressures of buying material goods. Instead of using the money positively everyone began using the money on unnecessary items. This is exactly what would happen in our society if we were to get reparations. Why reap the benefits from a negative event and use them to improve your status? If anything, the benefits should be used in order to strengthen the community as a whole. However, the only thing that would be on people’s minds would be Nike, cars, houses of inadequate proportion, and other unnecessary items. The market would target Black America also. Just as quickly as the money was handed out, it would be back in the hands of the government. Those who spent their money too quickly would rob and kill for other’s money. Not only would it cause a divide among the
2
Whites and Blacks in the nation, but also it would rip Black America apart. It is unfair for the people of today to be considered responsible for yesterday’s mistakes. If that were the case, many individuals would be paying for the crimes of their families.
White Guilt is a feeling held by many White liberal supporters. As we discussed in class, this has led many rich White Americans to support Blacks because they feel sorry for the way in which White America has treated the Black race. However, many do not realize that this feeling could be turned into hatred and anger if the issue of reparations was pressed. Racism could increase not only because of jealousy, but also because of equality.
The world is very confused just as in this story. If people would work to make their dreams come true and live for the present and future, but learn from the past life society would be greater. If reparations were ever received, they would be the destruction of Black America as we know it.
Robinson, Jill. “BLACKout.” Dark Matter: Reading the Bones. Sheree R. Thomas, Ed. Warner: New York. 2004.
LaWanda's Peer Comments:
Bridget: I agree with your view that if reparations were given money is not the way to go. I like the text that you used for your paper. The authors' insights were very interesting.
Felicia:I agree that young twenty somethings should be proactive but not just twenty somethings every should be. Who will take that step though? Of course we should be but when we are educated enough about the situation then what? Some people that want to do something don't know where to start. People that are educated and doing things and hae the resources are doing all they can but they still need help from outside sources. I am not giving people excuses. I just feel some are doing what they can while others just read about it and move on.
jkholmes: Your paper was really interesting to read. When I read the part about Germany paying reparations I remembered that they also paid reparations to France after the WW1 I think it was. They lost so much money. I really liked your essay.
SkyyBlu: Your right their is a lot of discrimination and racism in our country but some people have learned to leave that behind closed doors. They are refered to as "closet racist". I remember when the Virgina Tech shooting happened my friend that was Korean went to work and someone made the comment not to make him mad or he'll shoot them. How ignorant is that? We still have along way to go but we've also accomplished alot.
Shay: Your paper was interesting to read. I was a Education major two years ago and I was so ready to show children that there are people out there that actually care how they live their lives. There are so many programs out there to help students but what is so shocking is that some parents will not push that child to do more. My friend after high school decided to work. I remember her mother saying that she was not smart enough for college adn should be happy she got her high school diploma. The parents have to get involved as well for their children to see the benifits in learning. Great Paper.
kgarikes: You are so true in your writing. My parents have always told me that I need to "sell myself" in order to get ahead. Basically meaning I need to act a certain way in order for people to take me seriously and advance forward. I've always thought it was pretty sad that it would be hard for me to be myself and get what I want.
Kennon: Your paper was very intersting to read. After reading it I realize that we as citizens give the government to much power over us. When something happens or goes wrong the first thing people do is look to the government for help. When this country firt started the government was there to help the people not control them. Good paper.
Lauren: We live in a consumer society. In order to be the best you have to buy the best. Is that right, I don't think so. The media both television and music talk about having big houses, lots of cars, unlimited fun, and so on. It is praised as the perfect life and the youth sees it everywhere they go. My cousin is 15 and what did he want for his birthday? A large platinum chain "like 50 Cent has" was what he said. Even though it wasn't real it was almost over a hundred dollars!!
Whitney: I liked your essay. It made me think about a lot of things that are happening around me now. Good job.
gucci143: I thought your paper was well written you are right, we should learn from mistakes in the past and work hard not to repeat things. We should however, not forget those that struggled and died for the rigts we all have today.
Jennifer Tosch
EH 498
Mr. Alford
Focus Question:
Why are certain races expected to take on the pain and guilt of other races to make things right? Why are they expected to be a “whipping boy”?
Thesis:
In both texts, Whipping Boy and Jesus Christ in Texas, the main characters appear to feel as though they need to take on other’s pain.
Summary of Whipping Boy
In Whipping Boy, Dexter is being told by his Aunt June that he must take over where his cousin Marcus and others before him left off. A whipping boy is someone who received punishment for someone else, such as royalty. Dexter is the whipping boy in this story, but he does not want to do what his calling is. He doesn’t think its fair that he should have to take on the “white man’s burden”. His Aunt June is the one that is pushing him to be this whipping boy because it is in him and his line is to be this. In the end, we find that Dexter must become the whipping boy in order to take the pain from his girlfriend. Once he removes her pain, she forgets him and he is suddenly left with only rage.
Summary of Jesus Christ in Texas
Jesus Christ in Texas is about a stranger who appears in Waco, Texas at a meeting between the convict guard and the colonel. The colonel is so taken by him that he invites him to his home. At his home, the guards’ servant trembles and bows before him, and the guards child crawls in his lap. When guests begin arriving, they all mistake the stranger for a servant because of his skin color. The rector claims to have met the stranger somewhere before, and the stranger denies this meeting. Later, the stranger is in the woods and meets an escaped convict. He releases the convict in the night. The convict ends up working for a farmer and his wife. While working for them, he accidentally knocks the wife down while running towards the house. The guard thinks he is trying to rape her. He sends out a lynch mob and hangs the convict. The woman hides in the house as the lynching takes place, and the last thing she hears is, “This day you shalt be with me in Paradise.”
Analysis:
In both the Whipping Boy and Jesus Christ in Texas, there is a character that appears to be the middle man for everyone’s wrong doing. In Whipping Boy, the main character Dexter is expected to take on the pain and suffering of everyone around him. He is expected to pay for everyone else’s suffering. He doesn’t want to take on everyone’s burdens. Dexter doesn’t feel as though he should have to, but his aunt pushes him telling him that it is his calling.
In Jesus Christ in Texas, the stranger that appears in Waco feels the need to take on everyone’s burdens, but he feels as though this is his calling. He almost wants to hear what everyone has to say, and he wants to help them. He helps the convict and the farmer’s wife.
Both of these characters, the stranger and Dexter, take on almost Christ like figures in the way that they are assisting everyone with their problems. The stranger seems to embrace this way of life, while Dexter tries to hide from it. I think the purpose of this text is to bring to the realization to some people that they can’t just dump their problems on other people hoping that they will go away. It is more important for others to face their problems head on, and try to work through them. They can’t run and hide from them.
Risky Decision:
Every person is responsible for their own self, and their own actions. There is not a single person who should feel the responsibility of taking on the task of someone else’s situation.
Works Cited:
Noles, Pam. Whipping Boy. Dark Matters, Reading the Bones. Warner Books Inc,2004.
Bois, Du W. E. B. , Jesus Christ In Texas. Dark Matters, Reading the Bones. Warner Books Inc, 2004
Blackout
In the title of the story “Blackout”, blackout is spelled BLACKout. Blackout is in all caps and out is in lowercased letters. Why is that? In terms of racism, it can obviously be seen as blacks are excluded while whites are included. According to Pamela Sargent’s Review on Dark Matter: Reading the Bones, “Jill Robinson’s “BLACKout” takes a look at some prejudices within the African-American community with a biting satirical look at what might happen if a reparations bill were passed to compensate African-Americans for their slave labor.” On the other hand, blackout is an ambiguous term. It means “a partial or total loss of memory, a momentary loss of consciousness, unconsciousness, power outage, power failure, dimout, interruption, pause, break, suspension, intermission, the failure of electric power for a general region, darkness resulting from the extinction of lights (as in a city invisible to enemy aircraft), a suspension of radio or TV broadcasting, faint, a turning off of the stage lighting to separate scenes in a play or end a play or skit; a period of darkness enforced as a precaution against air raid; a period of darkness (as in a city) caused by a failure of electrical power; a transient dulling or loss of vision, consciousness, or memory; a wiping out; a blotting out by censorship; a temporary loss of a radio signal; the prohibition or restriction of the telecasting of a sports event; a time during which a special commercial offer (as of tickets) is not valid; a temporary or permanent state of unconsciousness.” Speaking of blackout, today, November 2, some people are celebrating National Black Out Day. I had never heard of this until I received an email about it on Tuesday, October 30, 2007. The email reads:
“Please spread to at least five other people and make sure you inform them to send the info to five other people, to spread the word. National Black Out Day on November 2...Do not make any purchases on this day, and please do not make any major $ amount purchases the day before or the day after because then the Black Out will be of no effect. This is from 102.5 radio station (Atlanta); they are asking their listeners to spread the word for those who may not listen to the station. This is the second phase from the Jena 6 and many other cities and people of color are facing similar situation like the Jena 6. NO PURCHASES... NO PURCHASES... NO PURCHASES... NO PURCHASES...NO PURCHASES NOV. 1, NOV. 2, OR NOV. 3.”
According to Wikipedia.com, “On October 5, 2007, a message was posted on Spears’ official website confirming that the title of the album is “Blackout”. A spokesman for Jive Records has said that the title of Britney’s fifth studio album, “Blackout”, is about “blacking out negativity and embracing life.” I love this meaning for blackout, and I never thought of it in that sense. This definition of Britney Spears’s album Blackout has helped me expand my horizons with the term. I was looking at T.D. Jakes CD cover titled T.D. Jakes Presents God’s Leading Ladies: Out of the Shadows...Into the Light. If you look at the CD cover you will see a black lady standing behind the stage curtains with the microphone in her right hand as if she is waiting for her turn to sing on stage. It is really like a coming out. The way I interpret the title of this CD is you are exiting, coming out of the shadows of your dark past of abuse, pain, misery, destruction, hopelessness, poverty, or whatever, and now you are entering, into the light of your bright future of abundant life, hope, joy, and prosperity in your mind, heart, soul, body, and every area of your life. To break down the title BLACKout, my interpretation of BLACK is referring to not only racism, but darkness, negativity, broken dreams, fear, inside the box, despair, rags, curses, nightmares, depression, suffering, night, mourning, ashes, no way out, lost, in-the-dark, blindness, closed, tradition, concealment, hidden mystery, ignorance, destruction, and sins. In this sense, all of the interpretations of BLACK is out, but white is in, not in a sense of racism. When I say white is in, I mean in terms of light, referring to there is a light at the end of the tunnel, positivity, dreams, visions, goals, gifts, talents, power/ability, blessings, goodness, happiness, wealth, outside the box, open, morning, daybreak, joy, found, sight, illumination, revelation, intelligence, light bulb moment, ideas, concepts, abilities, power, and knowledge is power/ability. To put it all together, I would use the examples of going from rags to riches; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Now is the time to come out of the shell, outside the box. Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. I like the definition of Blackout, according to Britney Spears’s album. It has helped me to broaden my interpretation for BLACKout, and I will never see blackout the same way ever again.
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