Kosi Ezeanolue

The Definition of Oneself

On March 31, 2023, I saw a presentation led by Dr. Mae C. Jemison,  an American engineer, physician, and former NASA astronaut who became the first African-American woman to travel in space. She opens by talking about how our backgrounds and identifications play a significant role in our futures yet we are not ruled by it. Jemison then goes into a story about when she was a little girl and her teacher asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. A young Mae Jemison responded “I’d like to be a scientist” to which her teacher responded, “You mean a nurse?”. This story was a great representation of the limitations placed on her as a girl based on her identity as a woman. With this introduction from Dr. Jemison, it was clear that she had a powerful message about the importance of defining yourself and understanding your identity. The purpose of the program was to shed light on Jemison’s journey, and the core narratives and themes that emerged revolved around the importance of perseverance, the power of education, and the impact of race and gender on one’s success.

In the discussion panel, Dr. Mae Jemison shared her personal experiences of being a black woman in America. She emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. According to Dr. Jemison, being black is not just a skin color, but it is an identity that is tied to the experiences, history, and culture of black people. Dr. Jemison also touched on the issue of “tokenism”, where individuals from underrepresented groups are included in a group or organization to give the appearance of diversity. She stressed that true diversity is not about ticking boxes or meeting quotas, but it is about creating an inclusive environment where people from diverse backgrounds can feel valued and respected for their unique perspectives. Jemison speaks on this, likely referring to schools like Stanford which she attended. She continues on highlighting the need for black people to embrace their identity and be proud of their heritage. She shared how she faced discrimination and prejudice throughout her career, but her confidence in her identity as a black woman gave her the strength to overcome those obstacles. Her experiences as a black person have also shaped her perspectives and informed her decisions as a leader and astronaut.

Freedom on my Mind offers an insightful conversation on the intersection of race and gender as barriers to success. One quote that stands out and relates to this theme is “You can’t be what you can’t see.” This quote emphasizes the importance of representation and its ability to inspire young people to pursue their passions and dreams. The quote connects to Jemison’s early experience in kindergarten when her teacher failed to believe in her aspiration to become a scientist, instead suggesting that she should pursue a career as a nurse. This incident highlights how societal expectations based on race and gender can restrict individuals’ ambitions and discourage them from pursuing their passions.

Similarly, another quote from the text that relates to the theme of perseverance is, “Don’t give up, don’t give in, and don’t let anyone break you.” This quote echoes Jemison’s experience of being ignored by teachers in college, despite her obvious intelligence and eagerness to learn. Jemison persisted despite these setbacks, earning a degree in engineering from Stanford University and eventually becoming an astronaut. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity, and it illustrates the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams. During the panel discussion, the core narratives and themes revolved around Jemison’s extraordinary journey as a black woman in the field of science. Her experience as an EMT and working seven days a week while applying to Stanford University illustrates the value of hard work and dedication. She did not let any obstacles stand in her way, and her perseverance eventually paid off. Furthermore, Jemison’s dedication to education and pursuit of knowledge are themes that run throughout her life and career. She took numerous African-American-based courses in college and credits her diverse education with giving her the tools she needed to succeed.

The discussion also brought attention to the impact of race and gender on Jemison’s journey and the challenges that women and people of color face in science and technology fields. These fields have been historically dominated by white men, and women and people of color are often underrepresented and undervalued. Jemison’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking down these barriers and creating more opportunities for underrepresented groups in science and technology. Freedom on my Mind provides a thought-provoking discussion on race and gender as barriers to success, and the quotes from the text effectively connect to Jemison’s experience. Jemison’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and education, as well as the importance of representation in inspiring young people to pursue their dreams. The panel highlighted the ongoing struggle for equality and representation in science and technology fields, where women and people of color face significant challenges. Jemison’s journey and the narratives and themes of the program are significant to our understanding of African American history because they showcase the ongoing struggle for equality and representation, and emphasize the importance of hard work, perseverance, and education in overcoming obstacles.

Moreover, Jemison’s journey speaks to the significance of representation in inspiring the next generation of leaders. Jemison discussed the impact of seeing someone who looked like her in space, and how it inspired her to pursue her dreams. This sentiment was echoed by the panelists who emphasized the importance of having role models and mentors who can guide and support young people on their journeys. The lack of representation in science and technology fields not only limits opportunities for underrepresented groups but also limits the potential for innovation and progress in these fields. Therefore, the importance of creating more opportunities and supporting diversity in these fields cannot be overstated.

The discussion on the impact of race and gender on Jemison’s journey also highlights the need for systemic change in society. The challenges that Jemison faced in pursuing her dreams are not unique to her but are shared by many individuals from underrepresented groups. The panelists emphasized the importance of addressing systemic inequalities that limit opportunities for women and people of color, including lack of access to education, discrimination in hiring and promotion, and limited representation in leadership positions. By addressing these issues, society can create a more inclusive and equitable future where everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.

In addition, Jemison’s story is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and representation in African American history. Her accomplishments as the first Black woman in space are a testament to the resilience and determination of the African American community in the face of adversity. The themes of perseverance, hard work, and education that were emphasized in the panel discussion are also central to the African American experience. Throughout history, African Americans have faced systemic barriers to achieving their goals, but they have persevered and made significant contributions to society. Jemison’s journey serves as a symbol of this resilience and a source of inspiration for future generations.

In conclusion, Dr. Mae C. Jemison’s story and contributions to science were the focus of a panel discussion that explored the themes of perseverance, the power of education, and the impact of race and gender on success. Our text, Freedom on my Mind quotes on the importance of representation and perseverance connect to Jemison’s journey and serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges that women and people of color face in pursuing their passions. The narratives and themes of the program are significant to our understanding of African American History because they provide us with a lens through which we can view the experiences of black women in STEM fields. Dr. Jemison’s story highlights the importance of representation and access to education for marginalized communities. Her journey shows us that with determination, hard work, and support from others, it is possible to break down the barriers that limit our potential.

 

Works Cited

Thompson, Kenneth. “Politics and the Fight for Jobs.” Freedom on My Mind: A 

History of African Americans with Documents, edited by Deborah Gray White et al., 

Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2013, pp. 910-914.

Tiffany Nicholas

May 12, 2023

African American History

Professor Channon Miller

Black History LGBTQ+ and Literature for the Future

For the Black History at USD Project, I decided to attend the San Diego Public Library for The Black LGBTQ+ Human Book Experience on February 11th of this year. This event sought to bring about greater understanding, empathy, and acceptance of diverse identities and perspectives within the Black LGBTQ+ community. Through this unique format, participants can engage in one-on-one conversations with “human books,” people who share their experiences and stories of being a part of the Black LGBTQ+ community. As an LGBTQ+ individual, being able to participate in this beautiful event meant a lot to me. The Black LGBTQ+ Human Book Experience and the works of African American writers and poets demonstrate the power of literature and poetry in promoting empathy, understanding, and social change, particularly within marginalized communities. Through their stories and experiences, these individuals challenge stereotypes and misconceptions, assert their identities, and highlight the resilience and strength of the Black LGBTQ+ community, contributing to the ongoing progression of African American history.

Historically, literature and poetry have been used by African Americans as a means of expressing their struggles, experiences, and aspirations, as well as challenging societal norms and injustices. In the case of the Black LGBTQ+ community, literature and poetry play a similarly important role in providing a platform for voices that are often silenced or ignored.

One of the “human books” at the Black LGBTQ+ Human Book Experience was Angel Maya, a trans activist, and educator. Maya shared her experiences of navigating life as a Black trans woman, including the challenges she faced in accessing modern human necessities like healthcare, employment, and housing. Through her poetry and spoken word performances, Maya emphasized the importance of self-love and self-acceptance and the need for greater understanding and support for the Black trans community.

Shanelle Johnson, another “human book” at the event, shared her experiences as a Black lesbian mother. Johnson’s poetry explored the complexities of navigating multiple identities and societal expectations, as well as the importance of building community and finding joy in everyday life. Through her poetry, Johnson highlighted the resilience and strength of the Black LGBTQ+ community, and the power of storytelling as a means of creating connection and understanding. Brittany Hayes, a bisexual writer, and activist, was also a “human book” at the event. Hayes shared her experiences of growing up in a conservative, religious household and coming to terms with her sexuality. Through her writing, Hayes explores themes of identity, community, and belonging, and challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about bisexuality. Hayes’ work highlights the importance of representation and visibility, both within and outside of the Black LGBTQ+ community.

Together, these “human books” demonstrate the power of literature and poetry as a means of promoting understanding, empathy, and social change. By sharing their stories and experiences, they are not only challenging stereotypes and misconceptions but also inspiring others to speak out and create change in their own communities.

Through what was learned this semester, literature and even poetry have a long and rich history within the African American community. From the slave narratives of the 19th century to the Harlem Renaissance of the early 20th century. According to Freedom on My Mind, “fresh forms of expression in literature, the visual arts, dance, and music affirmed black identity and culture and gained recognition for black creativity in American culture.” (Freedom On My Mind 2020, 679). African Americans have used literature and poetry as a means of telling their own stories and asserting their own identities. In the 1950s, The Civil Rights Movement created a revitalization of African American literary and artistic expression, with writers such as James Baldwin, Langston Hughes, and even female writer Maya Angelou using their work to challenge racism and inequality. For example, in modern times today, the Black Lives Matter movement has sparked a renewed interest in literature and poetry as a means of promoting social justice and change. Correspondingly, within the Black LGBTQ+ community, literature, and poetry have become important means of promoting visibility, representation, and understanding. Writers and poets such as Audre Lorde and Danez Smith have explored themes of sexuality, gender, and identity, and challenged stereotypes and misconceptions about LGBTQ+ people of color. Events such as the Black LGBTQ+ Human Book Experience provide a platform for these voices and create opportunities for dialogue and understanding within the community. Through literature and poetry, African Americans have been able to tell their own stories and assert their own identities, challenging societal norms and injustices. This is particularly true for the Black LGBTQ+ community, where literature and poetry provide a means of promoting visibility, representation, and understanding.

The Black LGBTQ+ Human Book Experience is an example of how literature and poetry can be used to promote empathy and understanding within a community. By sharing their stories and experiences, the “human books” at the event are challenging stereotypes and misconceptions, and inspiring others to speak out and create change in their own communities. The event provides an opportunity for individuals to engage in one-on-one conversations with members of the Black LGBTQ+ community, fostering a greater understanding of the diverse identities and perspectives within the community. Literature as a whole has played an important role in shaping African American culture in the United States. It has been a means of expressing the experiences, thoughts, and emotions of African Americans and has helped to shape their identity. One of the earliest records of African American literature was the slave narrative and these autobiographical works told the stories of formerly enslaved individuals and offered a firsthand account of the brutality and dehumanization of slavery. They were a powerful tool for abolitionists, helping to mobilize public opinion against the institution of slavery and promoting the cause of abolition. As Deborah Gray White notes in “Freedom On My Mind,” slave narratives “drew attention to the horrors of slavery and provided evidence of the intellectual and emotional capacities of Black people” (Freedom On My Mind 2020, 59).

Another important genre of African American literature was the Harlem Renaissance which I touched on earlier. This cultural movement, which took place in the 1920s and 1930s, was characterized by a flourishing of African American literature, music, and art. It was a time when African Americans were asserting their own cultural identity and challenging stereotypes and misconceptions. As Waldo E. Martin Jr. notes in “Freedom On My Mind,” the Harlem Renaissance “represented the first time that Black artists and intellectuals were able to speak for themselves, in their own voices, without white intermediaries” (Freedom On My Mind 2020, 257). One of the most significant figures of the Harlem Renaissance was Langston Hughes, whose works captured the vibrancy and complexity of African American life during this time. In his poem “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” Hughes writes: 

“I’ve known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins.” (The Negro Speaks of Rivers, 1921) 

This is a powerful poem and a celebration of African American history and identity and serves as an example of how literature helped to shape African American culture during the Harlem Renaissance. In addition to the Harlem Renaissance, literature played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s through the 1960s. Writers and poets such as James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, and Amiri Baraka used their works to advocate for racial equality and civil rights. As Mia Bay notes in “Freedom On My Mind,” “literature played a central role in mobilizing support for the movement, creating a sense of shared identity and common purpose among activists and supporters” (Freedom On My Mind 2020, 523). One of the most significant works of literature from this time was Baldwin’s “The Fire Next Time.” In this book, Baldwin offers a powerful critique of racism in America and advocates for a vision of racial justice and equality. As Waldo E. Martin Jr. notes in “Freedom On My Mind,” “Baldwin’s book challenged white Americans to confront the reality of racism and its impact on the lives of African Americans” (Freedom On My Mind 2020, 547). In contemporary times, literature continues to shape African American culture and identity. Works by authors such as Ta-Nehisi Coates and Jesmyn Ward offer a powerful exploration of the ongoing struggles faced by African Americans, while poets such as Claudia Rankine and Jericho Brown offer a powerful critique of racism and injustice in America today. As Mia Bay notes in “Freedom On My Mind,” “literature continues to play a significant role in shaping African American identity, promoting empathy and understanding, and advocating for social change” (Freedom On My Mind 2020, 605). From slave narratives to contemporary works, literature has helped to express the experiences, thoughts, and emotions of African Americans, and has been a means of promoting empathy, understanding, and social change.

Overall, The Black LGBTQ+ Human Book Experience and the exploration of literature and poetry within the African American community simply demonstrates the power of storytelling as a means of promoting social change. Through literature and poetry, marginalized communities are able to assert their own identities, challenge societal norms and injustices, and create greater understanding and empathy within their communities. As we continue to grapple with issues of racism, inequality, and systemic oppression, it is important that we continue to use literature and poetry as a means of promoting understanding and social change.

Work Cited

The Black LGBTQ+ Human Book Experience, February 11, 2023 

Hughes, Langston. “The Negro Speaks of Rivers by Langston Hughes.” Poetry Foundation, 1921. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44428/the-negro-speaks-of-rivers. 

White, Deborah Gray, Mia Bay, and Waldo E. Martin, Jr. Freedom on My Mind. Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2020. BibliU version.