Despite overcoming decades of oppression, slavery, and inequality, it is no secret that the
United States of America is still governed by the consequences of its former actions. Every day
we are reminded of how much of a divide still exists amongst races in America as African-
Americans and other minorities continue the struggle to gain respect, justice, and equality from
white America. It is often easy to become overwhelmed and even exhausted by the lack of
change that occurs in our communities, and although we have made improvements, we still have
a way to go. However, during the process we must acknowledge and acclaim those in our
community both past and present who have worked towards the forward movement of the black
community. In this Anthology we will focus on African-Americans whose achievements and
contributions to society demonstrate the progression of a race that was once deemed to be
worthless.
As an ordained minister, author, professor, and mentor, Michael Eric Dyson is the
epitome of black excellence. Currently the University Professor of Sociology at Georgetown
University, Dyson delivers stimulating speeches and presentations that can’t help but to ignite a
flame amongst its audience. He uses his knowledge to educate students, the youth, and adults on
the impact of modern day social issues such as racial profiling, pop culture influence on racism,
and division between the black communities. He does this all in a way that makes people feel the
need to be involved; he shows how we all are affected. In addition to his academic background,
Dyson is also a writer for the New York Times and an editor for The New Republic. He is known
for his raw and opinionated tone on controversial social issues, and is commended for bridging
social gaps between generations in efforts to show how even people amongst different age
groups still relate to one another. In his most recent novel, Tears We Cannot Stop, Dyson focuses
on his white audience, calling out to them in a form of a sermon. We chose this piece to be a part
of the anthology because it demonstrates a black man speaking to his oppressors about racism in
a way that is blunt yet practical.
Another accurate portrayal of black contribution can be shown through the work of
Trevor Noah. Noah’s Born a Crime fits the theme of African American achievement because it
shows how even though Trevor had to endure such difficulties, he is now the face of “The Daily
Show”, and an extremely successful comedian. Trevor Noah wasn’t supposed to exist. He was a
criminal the moment he was born to mixed parents. His success isn’t only achieving these high
positions. He has also achieved another form of success by writing this book and sharing his
story. His story isn’t only inspiration, it also shows people the reality of growing up in South
Africa and what it really means to start out with nothing.
Another notable African-American in which we are all familiar with is Barack Obama.
