LET THE CONVERSATION BEGIN…
- To schedule a presentation and discussion with the director, see the screening schedule, then send an email request to showing@neoafricanamericans.com
Leave a comment
Share the conversation…
The Neo-African-Americans
black immigrant identities
The Neo-African-Americans 
From this , I am neither African nor American. I am who I am .
Words cannot express how shocked I am see so many commenters who seem to be so capable to pick up a dictionary to develop such an expansive vocabulary, but are not driven enough to pick up a history book to get their facts straight. After reading the spiteful messages targeting African-Americans and African roots, I have concluded that there is much more ignorance in this world than I anticipated. Fortunately, I have been sheltered from this disgrace and negativity, contrarily, I have been unaware of the misconceptions implemented by people who choose to only see one, blurred perspective. Many of you, including myself at one point, are so poorly educated and misinformed; too consumed by such hatred that you blind yourself from the possibility of equality, cultural integration, compassion, and compromise by dispiriting the souls of minorities. With this close-minded perspective, the world will never surpass racism and stereotypes like “all asians are smart,” “that black guy in the hoodie must be up to something,” “white people think they are entitled to everything,” “all mexicans speak spanish,” and “native american tribes are savage.” Think different. Educate yourselves. Embrace positive change. Ignorance and stupidity are two different things so figure out which one you belong to and resolve the issue. To those who recognize cultural differences as proud additions to any culture, thanks. I’m proud of you.
Hahahaha the America’s ship has arrived, who wanna go to Ameriiiica and these blacks went white to work for them
After reading these comments I will distance myself from the Africans and take the identifier Black American, I didn’t know they felt this way, they are insulting our history, and talking more shit than a little bit, I say it’s time to sever this tie forever. The nation is opposed to immigration so we should join with the Republicans. They want latinos out, we should agree under the condition that they throw the Africans out too!
No yall need to take yall ass back to Europe and give the Indians back they shit takilng about we need to be out bitch fuck you yall came from black people dum ass do your history and read your bible it proves it so respact us
Today, when we think of Black political movements, we think of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. However, serious students of African American history and politics know that the largest political movement among African Americans was not the movement of the 1960s, but the Garvey Movement of the 1920s. This movement was led by Marcus Mosiah Garvey who emigrated to the United States from his birth place of Jamaica and organized a worldwide Black nationalist and Pan Africanist movement of black people under the slogan, “Africa for the Africans – Those at Home and Those Abroad”.
The movement, led by Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association is said to have in excess of four million members, making it, by far, the largest organization of Black people the modern world has ever seen. The UNIA had members throughout the Caribbean, Africa, and Central America. However, the overwhelming majority of its members were African Americans in the US. The movement popularized the Red, Black, and green as the flag of Black nationalism.
Malcolm X’s roots were partially from the island of Grenada, in the Caribbean. Elombe Brath, a Harlem based activist who recently passed was an African American activist and an African internationalist. His roots are from the island of Barbados. Minister Farrakhan of the nation of Islam – his roots are also from the Caribbean. Many African Americans have an historical link to the island of Barbados because Barbados was used as a so-called breaking-in ground for enslaved Africans. Once these Africans were ‘Broken’, they were then shipped to Charleston, SC (a sea port), and then dispersed throughout the Southern US. The point is: We’re all the same people.
Queen Mother Moore always said to me, “Segundo, if a cat had kittens in the oven, would you call them biscuits?” She would then answer herself and say, “Of course not. They’re still kittens. Therefore, when an African has offspring in America, they’re still Africans. We’re nothing more than Overseas Africans.” Lastly, she would say, ” We suffer from oppression-psycho-neurosis.” Read more here: http://www.blackpolitics.org
Where can I find this documentary?..I am African American just wanting to know more about my African Heritage….
We are not from Africa ,that’s one of the many lies ,we were sold out from Africa but we are from the continent of Asia we are from Israel ,Do your research Isreal is the mother of all countries
From all the comment s made by African Americans,I think alot of information was hidden from them about their past and there isnt anything that special about them they should read factual information like Israel is not in East Africa and therefore not in Africa.Oprah once said that she thinks her roots are in South Africa because basically that is the country she knows better in Africa.No body wants African Americans to return to Africa because thy will be foreigners they are better off where they are and our ancestors stayed behind because they were probably weaker but where we r is where we are supposed to be.
I believe that we were born here but we were brought here to be slaves and now that is over , some white man hate black man. But white man are the reason we are mixed with so many different races. We were raped by white man before we even settled in America. And not only that. They took so much from Africa. It used to be the richest in the world. But now look. I wish they would have stayed where they were and left us where we were. They are also the reason some Africans were seperated from their families that were going to america and put on a smaller ship and taken to Jamaica. And it’s not fair. And no matter how you look at it, we are all immigrants because white man are not from America either. Every one seems to look over this. They came here and took over the Indians which led to the trail of tears and all of that stuff. So only Native Americans should be in America.
I halfway agree with you. There is the African American that is ignorant of what happened before slavery because not only has the truth been hidden from us, but lies have replaced the information. Our ‘American History’ classes in the US educational system do not teach about slavery from the African perspective. We are offered up to history as a tool and product. Remember, we are less than 200 years removed from slavery, and even then, the Constitution does not technically abolish slavery. If you read the 13th amendment, you will notice there will be no slavery as long as you don’t break the rules/law, and as the Civil Rights movement taught us that you will not only become a political prisoner and outlaw, but that you will also be tortured and possibly lose your life. At the moment, Assata Shakur holds the number one spot on Americas Most Wanted for terrorism of all things. She was for the liberation of our minds and autonomy, and they dug up a 40 year old case on a 66 year old woman and (because of the USA PATRIOT Act) speaking up for her, pushing for any of the ideals she stood for or any ‘material support’ of any kind automatically makes a black citizen a ‘terrorist’ and enemy of the state. There is more going on in America than the world thinks and instead of judging and postulating, we need to either show us the truth (facts that have been hidden), work with us so we can work with you, educate each other or mind our business. I for one, as an African-American woman, WISH I knew my heritage. I wish I could link up with the people and economies and areas of interaction in African countries and bring to life an African American connection that will provide support and growth on both ends but all I find is discussion. WHERE ARE THE GATEKEEPERS AND THE KEYMASTERS AT?!
What is so special about African Americans, is the following; We went from slavery to the following;
-President of the Largest western culture, non- black country
-African American Universities,
-African American did own their own Banks, etc. in the past but integration change that
-African American at the top in the Legal, Medical, Financial, Politics, Business, Corporate, Entertainment, Sports, etc. areas
-ETC,
-ETC
-ETC
Now please someone inform me what Blacks, or non-whites in other white western culture countries have achieve anything close this these achievement???????
You need to go back to school. You are to white washed We know who we are better then you know who you are. And what is called the middle east is east Kimit. Tell me fool where is this imaginary middle east. It’s in the middle of where. Look read the destruction of black civilization or study the Belford agreement. Or simply Google when did east africa become the middle east. Next time keep your mouth close the effects of your white supremacy brain washing is showing
Why do we have to be called African American. White people are not called German American or European American. Why must we be labled. And what would you call a Black person whose family was never enslaved but has lived in America since the 1800,s? The family came here willingly from Jamaica. I know Jamaica had slaves at one point but this family was never enslaved in America.
Huh? Do you think black folks came here or were brought here to become active citizens? No! We were brought here like a heard of cattle, ready to work. We were never meant to become citizens by the people who brought us. So, therefore, we are transplants…we have not really grown from the day our great-great-great great grandfather got off the boat. Stop thinking you have arrived. Until, you are totally accepted, you are just like the “cargo” they brought over. Africans living in America!
Why are the so-called African-Americans racist towards the Israelite Benjamin African-Caribbeans, and other Africans across the globe especially to the latino kinds like Issachar Mexican Aztecs Israelites?
Why are so called people like you are racist against us. Maybe you need to come out of your little box. Stop acting like a victim and ask how your people have treated us historically. Remember it was Africans who sold ya to the white man. It was Africans who come over hear and are extremely arrogant with there British brainwashed education and think slavery never happened. You come hear because of the inference structure we built . We perked the land built the sewer systems the city slaves built every city in the usa. Wall Street was founded to trade slaves. You worship the white man and believe everything we say. And because he whispers your ear you not like those african americans tour ass believes him until the police beat your ass or you learn the truth then you realize you were played then you want our help. Do you think we forgot. Some of us can’t stand you because of slavery. For 400 years you did not do a dam thing for us. We went through hell. You did not do shit. But we come to africa by the way of churches entertainment Oprah and you take our money but talk all this shit.
How many times african americans come over there to help and your people have stole our investment destroyed what we built and we were employing your people. Your slave mentalities are worse then ares. Hell you come over hear and call us cotton pickers cafers, all kind of shit. So don’t you dare talk about why. Hell you know why. Read a dam book. Know your history. Not that white wash bullshit. Personally I would love to help africa. I know we need africa for our people on the planet to survive. No people can survive without there indigenous land but there is too much dam curuption. No stable government.
As far as Hebrews. I am one but I am also a follower of Yeshua. Some of you so called Hebrews are arrogant judgemental and out right nasty and disrespectful. You disrespectful of the follower of Yeshua. Look how some of your brother act on the street. Yelling screaming. Coming into the Christian communities calling them fools and bullying them. You better open your eyes.
Oh and I have dealt with people from the island. Jamaica is the most conscious people and the Bahamas but most of the people that we meet from the island are nasty as hell to us. Hell I had a friend from the islands the Virgin Islands. She used me. I gave that island b thousands of dollars to keep a roof over her head. You people come over hear not all but most and have a nasty condescending attitude. Then you want to act like we are supposed to kiss your ass but you ain’t got shit. If you did you would not come over hear. Then in regards to this latino bull shit. Sister or brother check yourself because you all think your white. Hell many of you are darker then us. So fine then since you want to be white so dam bad then we will treat you the same dam way. I am sick and tired of you people yes I said it you people always talking about us. What about you. What about how all of your people act. You all are users. Historically you come over and take advantage of our kindness in the past so now right or wrong were like fuck you. African Americans don’t get no dam foreign aid. Angelina Jolie ain’t doing a dam thing for us. You don’t even no what we have been through our pain loss of our black towns wealth land straight up stole since we have been free. Death upon death out right slaughter murdered by the police drugs being fluid ed into our communities we are in a war. We have our battle scares our pain and hear you come expecting what Kumbi Yaw. Please you think 500 years of this bull shit and know help from not one person of color on this planet. Where were you when we were marching being killed running for our lives. God and Harriet tubman, saved my ass you did not do a dam thang for me but I forgot you white any way. Please check your own people and there ways. Because I will never help anymore people of color except my own in the usa. The Moors the Hebrews right hear
Wow when did we become so racist. You better ask your people the same questions. When the people from the islands and Africa come to America acting like they are so better. Telling African American there black. When the white man tells your people your better then us and then you look down on us but come into our communities and benefit from our struggle. You come over hear cause you don’t have shut at home and many of you are nasty as hell. And remember your African brothers sold us. Please everyone have not forgiven you for that shit. He’ll when I was a child the people from islands were racist as he’ll right along with africans. So check yourself you are not a dam victim
Dearest sisters and brothers: Do you all remember Bob Marley’s, “Africa(ns) unite?” What about Peter Tosh’s “No matter where you come from you are an African?” How about the brothers from New Orleans, The Funky Meters’ “Africa?” The idea of “African American” came about in the late 1980s, but peaked around 1989. So the “African” linked to “American” is supposed to be a function of the connectivity of Blacks in America to Africa. The movement holistically encompassed the memories of slavery, colonization, segregation, and two lands (Africa and America) forever united in pain, misery, redemption, liberation, and now gradual empowerment. Imagine not for a moment but continuously that instead of spending energy on negative argumentation on differences, Black, Brown, and Tan sisters and brothers listen to and follow the exhortation of the late Rodney King, and simply begin to “all just get along.” Transformation (social, political, economic, and so on) eventuates when we actually just get along. How about that? It is not easy to get along, but that is what you continually do to make your world work. India Arie puts it another way “If old people would talk to young people it would make us better people all around” I think she is trying to say that a better world only occurs with communication and collaboration.
Brilliant documentary. Thanks and praise.
Hahahaw, you said “Cant we all just get along? I dont know what” world of delusional fiction your living in, but” this is the real world! And all of our lives are in imminent danger! You speak to our people about the need to get along with western European dictators, law makers who at this very moment wishes to D-populate the world” in mass numbers, starting with your” beautiful black face, who has lost grip on reality? I tell you what,” stop”the killng our youg black men in the streets and the prisons that are now” filled with our black Alfri,Kemet/Egypt, Ebed/Hebrew, Yesrailite brothers and sisters of fraudulent, trump-up charges! Better yet,” sale this idea of your to Thomas Jefferson,” who concluded in his letter to King George of Britain/Europe, before the writting of their Declaration of independence stating, “the God that gave us life, also gave us liberty at the same time.Do you see the same liberty between blacks and whites? Jefferson states on, “every man on earth” possses the right of self government!Who governs us in the hood, streets, stores, banks etc sister? Dear sister, what” are you saying here thats reminds me of the character played by Samuel Jackson, in the movie DJANGO? This kind of thinking is very dangerous to our people,robbed of our Identity . Equality in the western government world,is nothing more than a piped dream of a delusional mind. You see,” Thomas Jefferson went on to state in his request for justice for white Americans, ” Britain government relies on its house of commons for honesty, and the lords for wisdom which could be a natural relience, “if honesty were bought with money,” if wisdom were hereditary,” Jefferson stated, “but”:) he states on about this government who keeps its foot on our backs, that “The lords of Britain are hired to lie,” and from them” no truth can ever be extracted, “but by “REVERSING” EVERYTHING THEY SAY! “Zion, Afri,Eben/Hebrew, true”Yesraelites/Iraelites of YHWH, do not the things of the heathens See: Central Bankers/J: Rev 3:9 /2:9 , hear the cries of Martin L. King, Marcus Garvey, Malcom X, Honerable Minister Farrakhan, Thomas Jefferson letter to King Henry, and lastly Henry L. Berry of LUMBEE. Peace be with you in the name of YHWH!
Amen brothers & sister!! This person is on target! And I am of African American & Afro-Carribbean descent!! Once you understand the DIVIDE & CONQUER tactic, Caucasians have been using on us for decades; it is only then, will we uniformly prosper & unite!!! Black is Black!!
Don’t believe me???? Go ask a member of the KKK!!!
we are all from Africa just different tribes and nations my ancestors come northeast Africa a nation called Israel yes if yall did not know Israel is in Africa but back to what i was saying after Romans came against us in 70ad we ran down to wast Africa became some of the tribes of was Africa.i hope yall know the meddle east is apart of the African continent.
You need to view a video of Dr. John Henrik Clark’s lecture on “Christianity Before Columbus”. This will help.
Why all this conjecture! Go and study the work of Dr. John Henrik Clarke’s ” 3,000 years before a Europe”, Dr. Ivan Van Sertima, “They Came Before Columbus”, Dr Cheik Ante Diop ” Ancient Africans”. Dr. Shomberg “The Negro Digs Up His Past”, Dr. Ben “Ancient African Civilizations”, Dr. Christian, “The Destruction Of Africa”. The extensive work of these dedicated individuals are for us. They have done the hard work of research, and have proven African Americans place in world history. We are all decendents of one man. The African man. All races are from this one man. The African man is the oldest man in history. Because of dark skin, the human race survived.
.
.
The link below provides a commentary on the use
of the misnomer of ‘African-American’– as well as
on the socio-political “identity” of being ‘Mixed-Race’. =D
.
.
.
RELATED LINKS:
.
.
http://www.facebook.com/groups/253286018082418 /
.
http://www.facebook.com/groups/251823631562712 /
.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Generation-Mixed/message/1288
.
.
http://www.facebook.com/groups/253286018082418/permalink/253342398076780/
.
http://www.facebook.com/groups/253286018082418/permalink/253341281410225/
.
http://www.facebook.com/groups/253286018082418/permalink/253341891410164/
.
.
.
.
.
.
http://www.facebook.com/notes/%C2%ADallpeople-gifts/the-facts-on-m%C2%ADixed-race/321878451159708
.
.
http://www.facebook.com/allpeople.gifts
.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Generation-Mixed
.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MGM-Mixed
.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FGM-Mixed
.
http://www.youtube.com/user/APGifts
.
.
The term “African American”, was created by Black Americans, and chosen to legally represent American who originated from Africa. Before African Americans other terms used were; “Negro”, “Colored “, “Black”, etc. it is just a name, get over it.
Hi, Genetically we are all african blacks. DNA says so. Period.
Thanks all.
This response is so much the reason the african american is so lost and behind the curb in terms of development (socially, economically and maternally) People are clinging to the one piece of cloth we were left with after we finally achieved some degree of freedom not realizing that that one piece of cloth is nothing compared to what we could reclaim by just opening our eyes and seeing our mothers of past, our fathers of past, our sisters and brothers of past and seeking forgiveness and reconciliation. Both we, who find ourselves flapping around on these shores trying to buy nikes and our brothers and sisters back home who find themselves deserted by their past tormenters and flapping around trying to regain consciousness could find strength and purpose together instead of fighting over a silly name.
I love you all as my people I am a believer I think of us as one! I am born here in America because My love ones before time was enslaved do not be made at me for which I do not know! I am coming back to you no matter what it is DESTINY! we need not to fight eachother no more they are laughing at us! they know we are stronger then ever like EARTH when we’re altogether! My mind has been played with and my body has been damnage and my pride has been tempted on alots of things, as the world notice what they do to us comes back to them all! lets stop fighting and start rising I believed in you before you notice me! because we are lost do not mean we can not find the way you have to believe wheres there a will there is a WAY! come back to you memory my people as we communitcate with confusion we will get a clear sight because we are openning up to each other thank you all for this!
you didn’t build shit. people that have already died built things.
you are delusional and base your ego on things you haven’t accomplished.
do something worth while.
stop taking credit for things that you didn’t do.
So African Americans want to feel like white people but they are as dark skinned as their descendants .The only consolation to them is even whites just migrated from Europe so If Africans move to America and give birh to kids the kids would become African Americans,the same thing so there is no point in arguing because African Americans still cant think like the white Americans.
The African American classification is one that encapsulates everyone that is of African descent living in America since African Americans are only American by pilferage, not by lineage. When immigrants of African descent come to America, they come to be Americanized through opportunity and wealth assimilation and therefore become American by means of their pursuit. However, Afrian American people are more aptly classified by their level of melanation, in which heavy melanin can only be derived from African genetics, so the individuals in this video who define themselves through nationality, being Haitian, or Cuban, or Brazillian are inacting ignorance when they negate the fact that they are predominantly African.Living in America makes them as American as white immigrants who moved here from the depths of Europe. If we identified people of African descent as melanated Americans it would encompass all those of darker hue and no one would try to classify themselves away from their African genetics, but when we give people the opportunity to ascribe their ethnictiy through nationallity and not through genetics, those that want to be Latin or Carribean call themselves bastardized names out of cowardice.
Hey giftnappyab,
I like this writing.
The African American classification is one that encapsulates everyone that is of African descent living in America since African Americans are only American by pilferage, not by lineage.
NO. I am second generation Ethiopian and I am NOT AFRICAN AMERICAN. I am an American. None of you have ever picked cotton. None of you were ever slaves. Yes, it happened, yes it was horrible, but you want to claim lineage that you have no viable claim to. Genetics? Everyone comes from africa. Big whoop! The fact that you are in American is your lineage. Please get over yourselfs. I know my tribe and local in Ethiopia, yet I’ve never been there. I have no clue what it means to be an Ethiopian let alone an american. I carry a cell phone, have a great education, drive a decent car and can provide my family with a good living.
As one poster said, stop taking credit for things that have nothing to do with you. A black man performed the first open heart surgery. Does this mean that all black man can perform the same? Nonsense. you do realize that Africans sold other africans.
I’m sorry but only Africans in America can call themselves Africian Americans.
Once you are the second or more generation for what ever reason, you are an American of
African descent.
So, don’t kid yourself that you are an African American because your ancesters came from Africa, for whatever reason, – you know nothing about Africa. You are an American, whether you or other American are comfortable with that.
And, yes I am an African.
You’re talking semantics. The descendants of African slaves coined the term African-American and those of you who followed are Wolof American or Senegalese American or whatever else. And we coined that term for the very reason that you allude to in you comment: we were striped of our heritage, language, culture and religion, and our land! And that is our way of connecting with our stolen heritage.
How long do you need to live in America before you turn into an “American” LOL that’s nuts you are your D.N.A. forever and always from millions of years before the world was chopped up into pieces and labeled —- it all seems to begin in Africa – and YES! I am African!
Love the skin your in African Americans. It was this that gave the world it’s first humanity. Dr. John Henrik Clark, Ancient Africans Before Europe.
OOOOO TRUST ME SWEET HEART WE DO NOT I REPEAT DO NOT WANT TO BE CALLED AFRICAN WE ARE BLACK AMERICANS POINT BLANK AND THANK GOD FOR IT NOW WE LIVE ON AVERAGE BETTER THEN THE AFRICANS WHO SOLD US OFF SO THX BASTARDS HAHAHA PS WE LOOOK WAAAAAAY BETTER THAN YALL AND U CAN DENY ALL YUO WANT YOU KNO ITS TRUE AND THE REASON BLACK AMERICANS MIX SO MUCH IS BECAUSE WE ARE ASHAMED TO BE AFRICAN HERE IN AMERICA AFRICANS ARE CONSIDERED UNHUMAN SAD BUT TRUE LOOK IT UP
You ought to be ashamed of yourself!!!!!! I can’t believe you just said this!! You are sick & brainwashed!! A wannabe!!! You have low self esteem and colorism issues. And honey! You don’t speak for me!!!!! I am African Caribbean and African American of african descent!! And proud!!!! You mam are a neantherdol!!! Through your type, …..they keep us divided!!!
Robyn!
I am disappointed in you sister! It’s sisters like you, which keeps us confused, fighting, and lost as a people!! Now! My parents are Afro-American & Afro-Carribbean. I don’t care what you say, or how you rationalize it!! I am an AFRICAN !! I may be 3-4 generations removed, and you may be one, or possible 0 removed!!, but you know what….it doesn’t matter!! Your thoughts are not allowing me to connect and accept my lineage and my spiritual self; thus, you Are attempting to enslave me mentally!! All over again! Enslave me to insecurity, thoughtful thoughts, and despair. An African is an African!! Across the global diaspora! The difference in you volunteering, and me being forcefully brought, are the only dividing factors!! If you open your eyes, you’ll recognize the evil of tall tale lies!! And yes!; I have been home, to AFRICA on SEVERAL occasions, across the Continent! I have both lived, studied and worked in my homeland! The homeland of my ancestors! If I indeed was a black who denied my cultural ancestry, you’d indeed have a problem with that!!! You know it, and I know it!! You subconsciously suffer from self hate, as it is apparent; because you are trying to deny me the joy and hope of accepting my/our lineage!!! Sister…. Please do not fall victim to THEIR tactics!!!
Oh Robyn…..did,you know,if it were not for the african American civil rights struggle….you and other black foreigners…would not have the rights that you have?….oh and while I’m on a roll…that includes.asians latinos white women.gays..the list is endless..so all of,you should be thanking african Americans.for our,continuing fight and dedication to civil rights.
And you wonder why AA’s have feelings of contempt toward immigrnat blacks, every chance you get, you try to distance yourselves from us, and act like you’re somehow better, kiss my cotton!!!
LOL!!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!! SO FUNNY!!!!! I am really cracking up right now!!!! HAHAHAHAHA!!!!! WHEW!…..WHAT A HILARIOUS COMMENT LOUIE! LOVE IT!!! IT’S SO TRUE TOO…….Immigrant Blacks don’t want to be treated with the same contempt and abuse as AA’s in the US; so they try to separate themselves from Black Americans by any means necessary to gain acceptance from white people. For example, “they are different because they are hard workers” and “they are family oriented”……as if no Black Americans in this country (whose ancestors built this country) are hard working, family oriented people. and I’ve noticed that whites (as usual) help create that division and dissension between immigrant and American Blacks because they are a little more accepting of immigrant Blacks (especially Africans ) and tend to treat them better.
Dawn I hear you.. And this use to be the case, in the 70’s & 80’s; but I tell you. .many of our immigrant brothers & sisters are wising up!! They are beginning to see the system for what it truly is! Here in the Northeast, we are beginning to unite more than ever! The 1990’s & 2000’s More African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, and recent Africans, are forming united fronts! Many from all ethnic groups, 1 race!; have actually begin to move back home to various parts of Africa! Develop businesses, build homes, and foster solidarity amongst ourselves! We have many community groups teaching our “real history”, to our children, through our own united funding! Believe me, the changes are taking place……. Once people open their eyes!!!
Simply brillant!
Alain Tamo founder Africaquest
Reconnecting People To their African Roots
For centuries it has not been possible for others to really view us as different people not matter where we live. I believe that people of black african origin who lack this “Same-People Identity”, need a good course in global black history and probably a good therapist.
love is nothing but a thang but hate thats a big word can you spell or do you use it because your empty
As an African American, I do not believe that Black immigrants should call themselves African Americans because I feel that it direspects both the African American culture and what ever culture the Black immigrant has. We all have the same DNA/skin color but culturally, we are not the same. We speak different languages, eat different foods, and have certain customs that are not the same with African Americans and this is not our fault. Slavery has bascially stripped everything African about us and as a result, we created our own culture and customs from the Slavery experiance and because of segreagation experiance, we have created a culture of our own that is alot different than that of White Americans. But, also, as a Pan Africanist, I think that we need to have a serious conversation and see what we can do in order to better ourselves and educate ourselves. I am tired of the White racist media tampering with our history, our name, and our image. And, I countine to do futher reseach on Africa because I feel that Africa has been largely ignored from alot of research, history, and from sociology as well. I think we need to stop this. Black people are human and we pay taxes as well. Realize that.
I am an African American married to an Zimbabwean and I would have to disagree with Lisa about her statement of African Americans and Africans being so different in that of our language and customs. I have realized during my marriage that things are so similar that we as African Americans don’t even notice, and that’s because we only see the blatant differences. Upon close observation I can confidently say that we are as similar as White Americans are to their U.K/Scottish/Irish counterparts. Many Africans speak English, only with a British and African accent. We eat very similar foods, and prepare them in similar ways. What is different is our mindset and that is due to our American culture. Although our customs may not be the same I view it as a tragedy of what we missed. Every other culture/group in this world knows their language unique to them, their heritage almost right down to the exact country most of the time. My country is only the U.S.A. I cannot relate it to anywhere in African because of unrecorded history for blacks. To know Africa is to know yourself and where you came from before the unfortunate experience our forefather AFRICAN father or mother had in coming into contact with a European. Befriend an African and drain them of information and see for yourself just how much we really haven’t changed. I will close and say this; I’ve been learning to speak Shona the language of Zimbabwe.. very similar to Swahili. I have realized now as I understand more that they speak their language with the same inflection and way in which African Americans speak English. We definitely speak English with a different inflection than Whites here, but never would I have thought that people did the same thing in their natural African language. Amazing discovery I’ve made!
I agree that their are both difference and similarities with African American and Africa / Caribbean culture, but my problem is that in the USA I am primarily concern about African American achievement, and I feel other cultures should be aware of African American achievements. I feel that Africa / Caribbean culture, do not give us credits for what we have achieve, but at the same time, they want to benefit from our struggles. Also African Americans have been here since the beginning of the USA, some 200 years, how can Africa / Caribbean, who have been here 50 years or less, dictate to us that they do not want o be identified as African Americans, in our own country, that is like me going to African and stating I do not want to be identified as a African, after staying on 20 to 50 years. Africa / Caribbean do not show any respect to the African American population, and as far as I am concern I will not shoe any respect to any persons who do not respect me or my people. Also I am quite happy tracing my root back to only my US relative, if African does not want to claim me, then I do not claim Africa!
You logical point are correct, African American and black African are culturally difference; but that should do not stop us from unifying, globally we are 2billions black people.
Excellent observations Lisa, but at the same time!! We must reclaim our true selves!! This country is built on secrets and lies!!! Accept them no longer!!! Read the US Constitution, clearly & carefully!! We are not classified full blooded Americans…… There’s also a clause, that states, we can be sent back to ANY part of Africa, at any given time, the US feels it’s right!!! Real talk!! Read, Research, take off the shameful, blinding, sunglasses of slavery!!
I am a student at the New School researching social relations between African Americans and Africans in Harlem. I hope to take a look at cultural and individual identitiy as well as interactions between the two groups in the famous historically black neighborhood. I am of both African American and Jamaican descent living in Brooklyn. I think it is important to dispell the myths that each group has about on anothe. We must remember that the purpose of a census classification is not about demonstrating culture or history or self identity. The classifications on the Census group Black people together for many other purposes, specifically to keep a tab on the growth of non white populations. My view of an African American is someone whose roots have been here from the time of slavery. Blacks in the US have never had the ability to choose their “official” ethnic identity. It started with “Nigger” and “Coon” to “Negro” and “Colored” then onto the self affirming term “Black” and Jesse Jackson’s term African Amerrican. The latter is th only real term that has been chosen. After going through Slavery, being counted as 3/5 a person, Jim Crow, Lynchings, Klux Klan terrorism and today’s inequalities, I feel that African Americans can call ourselves anything we damn well please ( as long as its not a term of self hatred). But I understand the black immigrant expereince as well and the frustratin of understanding your place in a new country that has already designated an identity regardless of background.I identify with both sides of my heritage and cultures without conflict or explanation. It is not imperative to fit into anyone’s classification but your own.
Amen Keyona!
You and I are two peas of a pod! Preach sister!! You my dear, have removed then sunglasses!! A girl after my own heart!!! I’m from Brooklyn to! Of African American & African Caribbean descent!! We have a unique experience, culturally, in the diaspora!! Understand??? Represent!!!!
Hello, I was at your presentation at Messiah College yesterday. I went as a requirement, but I’m so glad I did! Your film was fascinating and extremely well presented. I was very ignorant of these “microtrends” and I appreciate you opening my eyes to pay attention to them. I especially appreciated the interviewee’s responses as to whether or not they were “African-American” (I’m the girl who asked how to address people when I don’t know which term they prefer). I took a class here at Messiah a couple years ago about diversity, and your documentary reminded me of the lessons I learned about the struggle to find identity and people’s right to self-definition. I also appreciated the way you led the discussion, and that you handled all the comments and questions (some of which in my opinion were rather unnecessary) with grace. Thanks for presenting!
-Carissa
Carissa – Thanks for the compliments. It was indeed a pleasure to bring the conversation to Messiah. About your question, honestly, it is one I have begun hearing quite frequently from white people and I don’t think it gets enough attention. It is usually greeted with politically correct silence, but I think it deserves a much more thoughtful debate. If I were white, I would be frustrated too! On one hand, we have created this language of politically correct labels for groups people; yet, you speak with members of these ‘groups’ and you realize that what they wish to be called may be different.
Without going into details here, I hope my response helped give you some useful tools for navigation. Cheers, Kobina.
PS: If you’re interested, I invite you t join the Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=25776484610
I think to classify anything it is important to understand its origins. While African American people do share skin color and a similar struggle in America for equality with other minorities I believe it is incorrect to call every black person in America an African America. The difference is the culture that individuals have come accustom to. The term African American was developed to specifically describe the culture of the Africans who were brought to America. After being stolen from their home land and stripped of their native culture these African people developed a culture of their own to identify with. The descendants of these original African Americas are the only people that can truly be called African American.
@Deandre: I have also met ‘African Americans’ who don’t want to be called such because they think they have no direct connection to Africa. You can see more of the different opinions on the Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=25776484610
These are the brainwashed spiritually dead brothers & sisters, for whom we will pour libations for!!
Well,African Americans did run away to the North because the North had No slavery. 😀
Well after a while they didn’t have slaves, Originally all the 143 colonies had slaves, New York didn’t abolish slavery until the 1830’s
13 colonies sorry.
Well after a while they didn’t have slaves, Originally all the 13 colonies had slaves, New York didn’t abolish slavery until the 1830’s
I think that the documentary may shed some important light on the continuing divisions between the varying strands of African origin around the globe. It is a topic that has, in my opinion, never received the attention it deserves. I spent a lot of time in university consciously trying to overcome these hurdles on a personal level and saw firsthand the initial discomfort with me by non-US born Africans. Happily though, I lived to see those barriers overcome, and hope that my experience continues to be replicated by others around the world.
However, it is important to note that at no time in history has Africa ever held a singular identity as ‘Black’ or ‘African’. It is a continent that, much like all the other inhabited continents, has a history of strife as old as humanity. The great city-states warred against each other and preyed upon the pastoralists and peasant communities in the same way that Rome and subsequent European city-states exploited and periodically warred against its less developed neighbors. The same way the Han barbarized feudal Chinese villages to force them to join the larger empire. It is not a good ideal to serve up an idealized pre-European Africa as some sort of paradise. The history of humanity is relatively similar around the world. But just because it was not a harmonious pan-African continent-wide utopia, does not in any way justify the relentless attacks on our humanity as people in the last 500-600 years. No continent, culture or people are perfect and no group should be expected to be to prove their worthiness as members of the human family.
The modern era, however, has worsened this, because of the devastating effects of colonialism and ongoing exploitation by the nations of the ‘West’ to facilitate resource extraction, etc. I look forward to this documentary and hope it plays a significant role in showing us the truth, not facilitating the political agenda of those who seek to vilify us as a people, nor those who wish to build an imagined future based on falsehoods. The members of the African Diaspora need knowledge and tools to facilitate greater collaboration, collective efforts and mutual understanding of the hell we have all suffered around the world both before and since the continent was opened up for exploitation.
having the knowledge of what Africa is and not based on what we in America see through the media will enhance your African growth. The pan-African movement must be upheld for the ancestors that passed on line CLR James, Marcus Garvey, Dubois, Dr. Clarke, Duse Muhammah Ali, and many others.
I want to know what film is being expressed
@brother lamarr: i’m not sure i follow you.
As a first generation African Immigrant, living in the United States discussing the issue of racial stereotype can be disturbing. Some time I feel rejected by all American just because of my ascent, culture and west of all they feel my English is not American although I am from an English speaking West African country. So for me racial multi-racial issues it just depends who is the victim or the perpetrator.
Unfortunately due to lies, and the divide & conquer techniques, the term African American, has become synonymous with, Thug, uneducated, ignorant, uncouth, lazy, demanding, etc….our immigrant brothers and sisters, naive to the game, initially accept these media perpetuated ideals; until living here, for a period of time. After some time, understanding begins to set in, they also fall victim to then”legalize slavery, and techniques. It is only then, that many begin to destroy the blindfolds, put the pieces together, and understand the dilemma taking place!! United we stand,……divided we fall!!!
The expressed tendency to disassociate with the term African-American could probably be read as a desire to disassociate with the perceived negative status of African Americans in the United States, as it is portrayed by the for-profit mass media. In many ways that discomfort may mirror the way some African Americans do not want to associate with the term “black” or “African.” Maybe we all rely too much on television to shape our understanding of our fellow human beings. Do Irish and British immigrants disassociate with the term “White American?” Not if they stand to benefit from it.
For the average American, television and movies shape our image of “Africans.”Most of the time “African”is associated with “disaster pornography”: images of poverty, war, refugees, child soldiers, violence against women, coup d’etat and other forms of governmental instability, “tribalism,” kwashiorkor, famine, social disorganization. It takes a lot of time and money for the average American to get knowlege that can move them beyond the negative stereotypes. Certainly, immigrants do want access to the privileges of citizenship. They want the material comforts and opportunities for which African Americans and their ancestors have fought, died, protested, voted, and continue to struggle.
Frederick W. Kakumba caught my attention. I share his view on this. This is an old thread so wont read it. Cant wait for it to get shown in the UK, or know where it is showing in the UK.
What kind of world do we want? One full of divisions, people everywhere beating their breast in support of whatever tribal category they think they belong in, a fractured and fractionalized mosaic of warring tribes (often based on nothing more profound than shades of color), snobbery and discrimination, as in the past, endless bloodshed, revindications lasting generations and centuries.. Don’t all humans originate in Africa?
Have we forgotten the past? What happen to Pan-Africa as a tool for black liberation? Although I have not seen the entire film, these questions that the documentary raise are a direct result of an educational system that has ignored the whole history of African people. Even the question of the census seems to be premature if you realize its purpose. Who will the census and these questions raised in this documentary empower? I am African, Itibari!
I think the big question is do we see Africa as the motherland? Do we relate to African culture and history? Should we split ourselves into more sections, when others simply see us as Black, people from Africa?
yes , i think we do think we see africa as the motherland because we dont really know were we really came from.We all have a a little african american history in us to because we all came from the mother even if your cacjun you have at least 2%bin you. i dont think we should because we are more than just our skin.
It does not really matter what we call ourselves ( Africans, African-Americans, Jimicans, Haitian-Americans, Afro-Brazilians, etc) we are basically chapters of black african history. We are the same poeple. This “Same-people Identity” is the ONLY politically and psychologically healty way to view oneself and each another. For centuries it has not been possible for others to really view us as different people not matter where we live. I believe that people of black african origin who lack this “Same-People Identity”, need a good course in global black history and probably a good therapist. I am a Nigerian immigrant, a proud US citizin,and a college professor for twenty-six years.
It does not really matter what we call ourselves (Africans, African-Americans, Jimicans, Haitian-Americans, Afro-Brazilians, Asians, Europeans, Polynesians, Inuit, Native Americans, Arabs, Afghans, etc,) we are basically chapters of HUMAN history. We are ALL the same people!!
I believe that people of african origin (Ie all Humans) who lack this “Same-People Identity”, need a good course in global HUMAN history and probably a good therapist. (This latter especially!).
And it’s not about where we come from, it’s where we’re going. And that, I hope, is NOT a world full of people who prefer & promote only their own damn color!!! That’s the primitive and ignorant nonsense we’re trying to emerge from, according to Dr. King and Nelson Mandela, anyway. Only apes like the KKK etc want to keep us at odds with each other!!
To the brother Emmanuel Ahia, your comment make genuine sense. Thank you for your post. I have much respect for you via your post. Now, as for the “Name Calling” What would our ancestors (before slavery/colonialism) call themselves if they were around today? Why is it okay for a Caribbean or African born persons today to view the African American as something or someone other than their Brothers/Sisters…What happened along the way 500 years ago. Colonialism plays this same role on the entire continent of Africa today. Divide & Rule and Blacks seem to be some of the only people on the face of the planet that does not get it yet…Divided or collectivily…So I think this goes to show that as a Black Race of people we all have this in common. We ususally do not know the difference between Sugar & Sh*t…Im African, Born here, a descendant from slaves that died from the 1400’s onward… or 25, 000 years prior to that…There were African like the Olmecs, Aztecs, Incas, Mayas from Ghana, Mali & Ancient Egypt, in which our ancestors came here way before columbus….The Black Family worldwide and in Africa needs to follow that Ancient Adage that the ancetors left in their Wisdom “KNOW THYSELF” Peace, MY Brothers & Sisters…Out of One many & so on… Again, If all of mankind came from Mother Africa…Then Black people, Whats the problem? There are people that want to tell Africans in the diaspora that now we were not stolen but sold…How will we ever come together in love & unity if this is the case? I love you all.
A most noetically conscientious and refreshing point of view. Perceptions such as this render new faith in the reality of healthy evolution in global, non-polarized transpersonal Human Consciousness. Nicely said Emmanuel.
True whatever you call your self your descendants must have come from somewhere by whatever means,though now you have to try to accept where you are,you dont want to go back and you cant go back.
As a Pan- Africanist, recently from the mother land , I cannot wait to see this documentary. I think it will be good for us as people of African descent to dialoug and iron out our deffirences because we are the same people. We are all economicaly poor, marginalised and discriminated globally. Our attitudes towards each other are not of our making; the oppressors planted them. It is up to us and others who are with us to work together to learn our about our past, presnt and and future as One People. It is my hope that as we become more ‘educated,’ not leraned, about oureslves and world at large,we will over come some day.
Butterfly Lady:
It is true that some Black Africans look down upon African Americans. However, it seems to me that most Black Africans that do so are responding to the negative attitudes that many African Americans have toward THEM. Perhaps this documentary will help to promote what we all need–better understanding of ourselves and each other.
Interesting…Thanks
My university is trying to bring this documentary to campus. I think it will provoke interesting conversation. I am especially wrestling with the knowledge that every African I have met in the U.S., specifically friends with whom I have been able to have deep conversation, has expressed disgust at the idea of being associated with African Americans and our history. They all expressed similar sentiments about African Americans not being politically savvy enough and not achieving better status and treatment. I will be interested to see if the transformational message of “Neo African American” is another way of saying what I have already heard and seen in the attitudes of Africans in this country toward African Americans… they are better than us therefore they will make being African American better.
Please put me on your E-mail list. Send me newsletter.
I want to see it as well !
A very interested and revealing subject. How can I get involved?
I am African. I would like to see the documentary
Really, the only way this is going to be an isssue is with the 2010AD US census. It will be interesting to see how Pre. Obama wrestle with the various entrenched gov’t agencies that have worked over CENTURIES TO SKEW OUR NUMERS, STASTITICS, AND CONDITIONS.
Other than that, “white”(caucasians) should be prevented from getting services aimed at minorities of color, simply because they are the historical oppressors!!!
African immigrantion is nothing new for the US, as well as blacks having a relative they can’t trace back to these shores from the 1800s. except for the expected freak-out in expoential increases in various populations of color, nothing is said of the steeper curve to be expected by 2020AD as third world ppls tend to procreate more than nordics.
Another video should be produced hailing the good news that Africa has surpassed the ONE BILLION(1,000,000,000)mark in population on the continent. Most of the world, including the UNO has been freaked into silence about this.
I would love to see this documentary
Interesting. I’d love to see the entire documentary. I have worked extensively with diverse populations including African immigrants and refugees in the areas of mental health and career counseling. I am African-American, meaning I was born here and I am married to a first generation African Immigrant from Mali. My interest in the diverse cultures, especially the African Diaspora, is fueled by information like your documentary. I am currently writing a paper on employment trends and the impact of cultural values on work ethics. It’s fantastic that you are pulling this all together, providing a historical and current view of Africans as well as statistics. Africans are most often left out of mainstream research on most subjects and issues. Thanks
@ Shonda. Thanks for your comment. The DVD will be available in April. I’ll notify you. Be sure to join the Facebook Group: The Neo-African-Americans
will this be avaible only in some universities? I’d like to see the full doc,
P.S. I’m not African American, I’m just African :o)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Warren-Ballentine/148080155280?v=feed&story_fbid=145183722953#/note.php?note_id=150375372105
Cristina, if you could kindly post another link to the article because this doesnt get us to what you want to show us.
looks great
Interesting. I believe that some African Americans take exception to “foreign Blacks” calling themselves African American, since we are not descendents of the enslaved Africans brought to America in the 1700-1800s.
But if President Obama can call himself African American, then I can too (even though my nationality is Jamaican).
Very thought-provoking–I look forward to seeing the complete film!!
I can’t wait to see the full documentary and show it to some students as well. Thanks for sharing.
wow! I would love to see this!
“This is a stunning and vitally essential work.” – Pamela George, Asst. Dean of Student Affairs, Yale College
– “FASCINATING.” – Jeannine Scott, Vice President, AFRICARE
– “This is a smart, astute, well done, clear and exciting documentary that asks the right questions and delivers balanced, intelligent, and fresh answers.” – Sylviane Diouf, Historian, Schomburg Center, New York Public Library
– “I … wanted to express my gratitude for making such a riveting documentary… I believe you will touch and change the thoughts of many…with your unique perspective. BRAVO!” – ‘African-American’ audience member
– “This documentary captures decades of conversation in one hour, and doesn’t leave anything out.” – ‘Jamaican-American’ audience member
– Your presentation continues to raise lively conversation on the campus. I look forward to keeping up with the discussion nationwide.” – James Reese, Associate Dean of Students, Bates College.
– “Riveting.” – Antoinette Gomes, Coordinator, Rhode Island College Unity Center
Simply brillant!
Alain Tamo founder Africaquest
Reconnecting People To their African Roots