As I have begun African American studies, I have begun to notice the vast influence that Black people have brought to America. It wasn’t that I didn’t recognize it, but I did not appreciate it on the same level that I do. In particular, Beyonce Knowles has captured my attention.
Beyonce is a not only a female, but also an African American icon. I have always admired Beyonce for the strong messages of empowerment that she sends to women all around. She is beautiful, strong, smart and dignified. She is one of the few idols that we can admire in Hollywood today.
Before I took African American studies, I never realized how important people like Beyonce are to not only important to the African American sector, but to a broad culture as a whole. As a Black female, Beyonce can show her sense of empowerment through her ability to overcome societal setbacks. As a Black woman, she has to overcome the prejudices that happen for both African Americans and females.
As a Hispanic woman, I realize daily struggles that result from racial and gender prejudices. It gives me hope to see an African American woman who has created so much positive energy within the African American population. Moreover, my respect for her as a female is just as abundant as gender inequality is a pressing issue as well.
It is very rewarding to see the Black community in a different light. It amazes me to know that 50 years go, African Americans were not even allowed to go to school with white citizens. Now, we have elected the first African American president. Beyonce Knowles is just one of the many success stories to come out of Black history. I am very excited to learn more about African American history and to see what other accomplishments African Americans have yet to achieve.
If you like it, then you should have put a ring on it.
ReplyDeleteNancy, first let me say great post! I am a huge fan of Beyonce as well. You are right. She is incredibly talented. She and many other African American artists have made a huge name for their selves lately. I don't know for sure, but I would say that rap music has probably become the most popular music among preteens and teens today.
ReplyDeleteIt truly is amazing how incredibly far African Americans have been able to come. They were treated inhumane just a few decades ago. Now they are on television singing to crowds with thousands of people, and even becoming the President of the United States! That is truly a remarkable turnaround.
Thing have definitely changed for the better and I hope they continue to get even better.
Girl yes I couldn’t agree with you more. Since I have been a part of the African American studies class it amazes me that African American have done so much for this country and how many blacks play a role in encouraging the upcoming, Beyonce’s , Denzel’s, Halley Berry, and the Jay-z’s. My best friend loves Beyonce and I used to think why but now I really do see why she thought that because of your post. She has done so many things that many female artists don’t do at her age and have given many young girls hope for the future. I have also found a new found appreciation for blacks/ African Americans in my life and the ones that have done so much for me.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that African-Americans came a long ways from slaves and struggle to rich and famous. Beyonce is one of many African-American success stories. Mariah Carey being bi-racial, sufferend through a lot of criticism when she first came out due to her race, but now she is still very popular breaking many records including the Beatles record. Many African-Americans are more popular and influential than some Caucasians today. Opera Winphrey has great influence on society and is THE richest female alive today. Though racism will always be present, people are more appreciative and recognizing African-Americans more and more as time proceeds.
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