In a recent commentary, linguist and cultural critic John McWhorter argues for the use of "Black" instead of "African American" to describe descendants of enslaved people in the United States. He contends that "Black" more accurately reflects the unique cultural and historical experiences of this group, distinguishing them from African immigrants and others with direct ties to Africa.
McWhorter highlights that the term "African American" was introduced in the late 1980s to honor Black heritage, but its applicability has become strained due to increased African immigration. He points out that many Black Americans neither knew their African ancestors nor have direct cultural connections to Africa, making "Black" a more fitting descriptor.
He also notes that "Black" carries a potent combination of pride, remembrance, and regret, resonating with the lived experiences and self-perceptions of the people it describes. McWhorter emphasizes that the evolution of language mirrors the evolution of society, and the ongoing conversation about identity reflects the dynamic nature of human experience.
McWhorter's perspective invites a broader discussion on the terminology used to describe Black Americans, encouraging a reflection on how language shapes identity and cultural understanding.