Dear Editor:
I wanted to thank you for this wonderful article.
I am an African American female who was born and raised
in Brooklyn, NY. While reading your article, I couldn't
help but keep thinking...."Things Fall Apart."
I am sure you know of this book, for all Africans
do (smile). I don't think we can make any more sense
of this separatism and where it all stemmed from.
You can repeat yourself over and over and this problem
won't ever end until people take a look at what is
still happening to us. It's a really sad thing. I
became Muslim when I was 19 years old and then later
became Christian when I was 26 years old. I guess
you are wondering how this happened. Well, this happens
often, as you are well aware. I truly was looking
for another way, since I wasn't born into any religion
(no matter what religion America was so-called founded
upon). I then converted to Christianity and have been
trying to suppress some of the questions that often
come to mind. I find that the more Christian we become,
the more we have to compromise our heritage and culture
as an African people. This I despise for enough damage
has already been done. What more? I am aware that
both Christianity and Islam were introduced to us
and were not our original religion. I often struggle
with the reality of knowing that Christianity was
used to control. But then there is a feeling that
keeps me grounded that is above all things physical
which makes me stay devoted. Having had the experience
of being Muslim and Christian is to me an advantage
in that I can be open-minded to all. I actually judge
a person by their heart and character (although, who
am I to judge). I see many that are inside the doors
of the church who really don't reverence God whatsoever.
I am not judging anyone, I am simply acknowledging
what I often see.
Brother, I share in your sentiments and I thank you
for not staying silent. No matter who we call our
God, we must always display love and humility toward
our brothers and sisters. I thank you for doing such.
One last thing I must point out. Because the same
"founding" fathers have shaped the mind
of the people, in both Africa and America, you have
to see who is the real problem of which I am sure
you do. We cannot escape the truth that what is happening
to us, was a well designed plan that is still working
to this day. We still remain separated and can't seem
to find a way to unite. It's pitiful, isn't it? We
really don't get it. What is also sad is that the
"so-called" educated ones need to put down
the books they are reading and really get educated.
People are reading too much nonsense and not gaining
any sense at all. I hope you understand me…
I would hate to have to translate (smile).
Anyway, I encourage you to keep writing about this.
May your words one day finally make sense to our lost
family.
Peace & blessings
Regina Douglas