America Quote by Gloria Naylor
“There is a problem in America. An Irish or Polish American can write a story and it's an American story. When a Black American writes a story, it's called a Black story. I take exception to that. Every artist has articulated to his own experience. The problem is that some people do not see Blacks as Americans.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New York Times, 1995
The quote highlights racial double standards in labeling stories, where works by white immigrants are deemed universally American, but Black authors’ works are singled out as “Black stories.”
In simple terms: Racial bias labels Black narratives differently.
Key Takeaway
Challenge and labeling; demand equal recognition.
Themes
racial equality
identity
representation
media bias
Mood
reflective
critical
determined
Type
social commentary
political
cultural.
When to use this quote
- literature criticism
- publishing industry
- education curricula
- media analysis
Key Concepts
cultural studies
critical race theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does labeling affect a writer’s voice?
- What steps can broaden the definition of “American story”?
A Different Perspective
It can overlook the diversity within any group, assuming a monolithic experience.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
