Though significant progress has been made relative to racial dynamics, there still remains an abundance of stereotypes about women and men that target their intelligence, beauty and potentiality. For example, with African-American men, we are constantly bombarded with generalizations that we are criminals, uneducated, baby daddies who are absent from the home, devoid of good personal hygiene, intimidated by educated individuals, e.t.c. With African-American women, they are unfavorably characterized as baby mamas looking for welfare and government assistance, gold diggers, angry, financially unstable, lovers of thugs, e.t.c.
To be sure, some of these stereotypical thought patterns may be true for a segment of the black population- as the same holds true for all races. Yet, are these negative categorizations indicative of all, or even most, black women and men? Absolutely not! There are several positive black women and men who are highly educated, great parents, financially stable and spiritually sound, who have great marriages and who are certainly not intimidated by anyone based on education. As someone that believes in promoting love, peace and justice, I think that it essential to affirm positive women and men of all races. Verbal and written affirmations for these individuals are essential for the following reasons:
The positive narrative is missing. On a consistent basis, the mainstream media appears to purposefully omit the positive narratives out of the news cycle. Oftentimes, especially as it relates to the African-American community as a whole, it seems as though the negative perceptions must continually be painted against the canvas of minds. Thus, it is imperative that alternative media outlets do their best to ensure that the better narrative about individuals of all races is heard and read. Too often, positive and successful individuals peruse mainstream and alternative media for inspiration and encouragement and unfortunately are disappointed with stereotypical and intellectually inept information that perpetuates negativity and incites hatred of different forms.
Positive affirmation helps to inspire and energize the soul. Many individuals who try their best to live and to do right can become very weary. Upright living requires plenty of effort. Sometimes, these individuals need non-judgmental refreshment and inspiration from others – whether verbal or written. It helps to re-energize the soul.
Positive affirmation can potentially help those that struggle. People of all races struggle with certain battles in their lives. For these positive individuals, who are trying their best to rise above their struggles, it is imperative to receive valuable affirmation to help them to move forward.
Positive affirmation establishes a great pattern for children. When parents are energized and acknowledged, it assists them in affirming their children and exposing them to information resources that helps them to look forward to fulfilling a bright future. It is absolutely beautiful when children can dispel negative stereotypes at an early age and learn to love and to appreciate their inherent beauty, intelligence, and people of all races including their own.
