http://news.ncmonline.com/news/view_article.html?article_id=c8ec8bec183f89091a61cdc015f1a6c8
Race is already in itself a controversial topic. However, it’s truly disturbing to hear race being used as a rationale to blame others. Along with this idea of subjugation, comes the harsh reality that black students are deemed upon as less intelligent, falling behind, lacking motivation, or in other terms a failed effort. In this instance, a label becomes critical of the minority. This label is detrimental, dehumanizing, and creates generalizations that devalue the individual. The misconception that all black male students are engaged in violent or gang related activities, that they don’t take their education seriously, and that there exists no possibility of a black male student changing his rebellious mindset only guide the principles of those who wish to be ignorant. To question why this group of students is not performing in accordance with their peers is more troubling, because the mentality behind our social institutions accepts racism in our society—so acceptable that it puts aside the effort of those who do succeed.
As mentioned above, if people ignore or humiliate the capacity of black male students then their level of confidence is lowered and eventually they begin to internalize this idea that they are a problem. Steele’s stereotype threat demonstrates how a person will underperform in a manner that fulfills that negative label. This is disheartening. To think that social structures limit and abandon their hopes in black children can only show the fatality of our nation’s educational system or perhaps of our nation as a whole. Most of these teens are immediately viewed as dropouts, possessing illegal weapons, or participating in criminal activities. Thus, I turn to the CNN Student News Special , where some of these same children “refuse to be a stereotype” and find refuge in their schools. Many are bright and understanding individuals who are able to note their current situation, their disadvantage, and some find it necessary to beat the odds by staying in school. School might be the only liberation from their adversity in a system that wants to deprive them from merit.
Moreover, the article “SCHOOL MATTERS: How African-American Males Can Succeed in School” indicates how vital it is to create a nurturing and comforting environment for these students who often come to school afraid, depressed, and tortured by their imposed inferiority. Because, they’re treated as a threat wherever they go, they take on a role of resistance toward those who view them as such. If they’re so bad, then why go to a place where they’re unwanted? Then, the problems begin. The problems begin because of the whiteness that permeates the psyches of so many individuals. “African-American males did better in school when their teachers were interested in them personally, treated them fairly, encouraged them to express their views, and gave extra help when needed” says the article and that’s exactly the type of national effort that should be implemented. If teachers are to take that heartfelt concern and arouse interest in their black male students then maybe this could be a step towards resolving the issue of high dropout rates. Students need teachers that instruct but also take the time to listen, since their voices are usually silenced anyway. School activities, organizations, and even parent involvement can unite people to work towards taking these teens out of their misery. If they see a positive outlook, a positive attitude from others, and a positive mindset that wants to cooperate then maybe they’ll start transforming their own self-image into one that fits these ideals.
Black male students shouldn’t have to be suffering just thinking about school. It’s bad enough that all black students are discriminated against, but it’s even worse to think that black males are being put to shame for their situation when social factors originating in white society have a large role in this unfairness.
Article 1- Colleges Fight to Get and Keep Black Males
http://news.newamericamedia.org/news/view_article.html?article_id=c91a1a8470fc42d78d0d522717ed3a61
Article 2- America has lost a Generation of Black Boys
http://www.blackstarproject.org/home/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=38
Article 3- Reaching Black Men
http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2009/07/14/blackmale
CNN: Student News Special: Black in America
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