Q: How do you think America perceives black men?
“I think that they think of black men with alot of respect because of the sacrifices they have made. ”
“I think we’re still looked at as slaves.”
“I really want to say something about this question, but at the same time, it’s a question I cant answer. I can’t speak for everyone. I base my opinion on what I see”
“It is obvious to see that some people in my community see nothing when they look into a black man’s eyes, while others see greatness and royalty when they see a black man.”
“They think that not all black men are innocent—especially the ones who dress thuggish. ”
Q: The frequency in fatal interactions between law enforcement and black males have been receiving national attention. Does this trend impact your relationship with the police in your community?
“I personally do not believe that they [police] are targeting black men, but black men were just unfortunate. ”
“A few years back I was in Memphis. This policeman pulled his gun on me because he thought I had something in my pocket—only because I had my hands in my pocket when he stopped me.”
“I think it’s hard for people to put their trust in police officers after seeing that the people that are supposed to protect us, kill us. ”
“No. It’s not their [police] fault for the next man’s mistakes. ”
Q: Has any adult, black male figure given you advice on being a black man in America?
“Yes. He told me ’Being a black male is powerful... having the gift to become a strong-minded man and being able to make something out of yourself instead of what people think of you.’”
“My dad always tells me that it’s already hard to be a man, but it’s harder to be a “black” man. The things he tells me guide me to follow my own path and to be my own man. ”
“No”
Do you think your experience as a black male will change once you become an adult? If yes, please explain. If no, please explain.
“Yes. Every day I wake up, I see improvement in my life goals.”
“Yes. I will become more of an authentic man, learning the importance of succeeding and becoming something I never thought I would have become in life. ”
“I feel that as a black man, I may have a few run ins with sterotyping and prejudice. ”