African american Quote by Annie Elizabeth Delany
“I am a colored woman or a Negro woman. Either one is OK. People dislike those words now. Today these use this term African American. It wouldn't occur to me to use that. I prefer to think of myself as an American, that's all!”
About This Quote
Source Autobiography: “Having Our Say” by Sarah and Annie Delany, 1993
The speaker prefers the inclusive term “American” over racial labels, emphasizing identity beyond race.
In simple terms: I’m just an American, not a color label.
Key Takeaway
Focus on shared identity.
Themes
identity
race
language
social change
Mood
reflective
assertive
Type
autobiographical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- educational curricula
- community dialogue
Key Concepts
inclusivity
self‑definition
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language affect racial identity?
- What are the benefits and drawbacks of color‑blind terminology?
A Different Perspective
Avoiding racial terms may erase important cultural histories.
![“[My mother told me:] You must decide whether you want to get married someday,or have a career… I set my sights on the career. I thought, what does any man really have to offer me?” quote by Annie Elizabeth Delany](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b8a/annie-elizabeth-delany-40935_decide_my-mother-told-me-you-must-decide-whethe_2842752.jpg)
