Curing The Whitewashed Black Man: How to Reclaim Cultural Identity and Overcome Stereotypes

Being a black man in today's society comes with its own set of challenges. From enduring racial profiling and systemic discrimination to cultural appropriation and stereotypes, the struggles of black men are deeply rooted in the history of colonization and slavery.

One particular issue that often goes unnoticed is the phenomenon of the whitewashed black man. This term refers to individuals who have internalized and assimilated the cultural norms and values of the dominant white society, ultimately disconnecting themselves from their own black heritage. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon, its consequences, and most importantly, how to cure the whitewashed black man.

The Roots of the Whitewashed Black Man

Historically, black people were forced to adopt the customs, language, and traditions of their white oppressors during slavery and colonization. This was an attempt to erase their own cultural identity and assimilate them into the dominant society. This process, known as whitewashing, resulted in the loss of ancestral knowledge, language, and customs that were passed down from generation to generation.

Curing the Whitewashed Black Man

by Smiley Abrams(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1540 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	178 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Fast forward to modern times, and the effects of this whitewashing are still noticeable. Many black men grow up surrounded by media and educational systems that promote and glorify white culture, while simultaneously marginalizing and belittling black culture. This constant exposure to a dominant culture that often devalues their own leads many black men to internalize negative stereotypes and create a disconnection from their own identity.

The Consequences of Whitewashing

The consequences of whitewashing are far-reaching and impact not only individuals, but also entire communities. When black men are disconnected from their cultural heritage, they lose a sense of belonging and become alienated from their communities. This disconnection can lead to feelings of self-hatred, low self-esteem, and a perpetual sense of inadequacy.

Furthermore, the whitewashed black man often faces a dilemma when trying to navigate within society. They may find themselves torn between assimilating into the white-dominated system to gain acceptance and embracing their own cultural identity. This internal conflict can have severe mental health repercussions, such as depression, anxiety, and even identity crises.

Reclaiming Cultural Identity as a Cure

Reclaiming cultural identity is the key to curing the whitewashed black man. By reconnecting with their ancestral roots, black men can gain a sense of belonging, pride, and self-worth. Here are some steps to help in the journey of cultural reclamation:

1. Education and Awareness

Take the time to educate yourself about your cultural heritage. Learn about the history, traditions, and achievements of your ancestors. Read books, watch documentaries, and engage in conversations with elders and community leaders who can provide valuable insights.

2. Celebrate and Share

Embrace your cultural identity by celebrating it. Participate in cultural festivals, wear traditional clothing, and engage in cultural practices. Share this knowledge and experience with others to promote understanding and appreciation.

3. Surround Yourself with Supportive Communities

Seek out communities of like-minded individuals who share your cultural background. Surrounding yourself with people who understand and appreciate your identity can be a powerful source of strength and encouragement.

4. Challenge Stereotypes and Assumptions

Be an advocate for your culture and challenge stereotypes and assumptions whenever you encounter them. Educate others about the richness and diversity of black culture, debunking misconceptions along the way.

5. Engage in Art and Media

Support and create art and media that accurately represents your culture. By telling your own stories and sharing your experiences, you can combat the whitewashing of black narratives and contribute to a more inclusive representation of black men.

The Importance of Intersectionality

It's important to recognize that the concept of the whitewashed black man intersects with other dimensions of identity, such as gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Black men who identify as LGBTQ+, for example, may experience double marginalization and face unique challenges in their journey towards cultural reclamation.

Intersectionality must be taken into consideration when addressing the issue of the whitewashed black man. It requires creating inclusive spaces that acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of experiences and identities within the black community.

The whitewashing of black men is a complex issue deeply rooted in historical oppression and systemic racism. To cure the whitewashed black man, steps must be taken to reclaim cultural identity, challenge stereotypes, and engage in meaningful conversations about the intersectionality of the black experience.

By reconnecting with their cultural heritage, black men can foster a sense of empowerment, pride, and belonging. This journey towards cultural reclamation is not only crucial for the individual but also for the collective healing and progress of the black community as a whole.

Curing the Whitewashed Black Man

by Smiley Abrams(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1540 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	178 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Curing The Whitewashed Black Man is an anthology of poetry that reveals the spiritual introspection journey of Smiley’s ethnic identity. As a black man who grew up in a multiethnic Christian church, he often considered himself a peacekeeping reconciler. However, God convicted him of sacrificing his righteous indignation against systemic racism and injustice for the sake of surface level racial reconciliation. Smiley soon realized that for years he drank the Kool-Aid of white supremacy in his theology which distorted his understanding of Jesus Christ and the world.

These poems reflect the process of Smiley de-colonizing his theology. This poetry book is divided into four sections that share his honest and painful cries for black America, his appeal to white evangelicalism, his honor for black heritage, and reflections on the scripture through the lens of his black identity.