In this piece, Ms. Hampton addresses the whole issue of Blacks not wanting to identify themselves as Americans. Yes, it is true that America has not been the greatest (especially during the days of slavery). But when look at our past history versus the present, we have certainly come a very long way. This whole notion that we have to maintain the grudges of what happened 200 + years ago is phony. The one question that remains to be unanswered by most Black liberals that I come across is: “If America has been so bad to you, why don’t you just leave?” Trust me, I do not have a “tude” when I ask this question. I am asking it in all sincerity. Quick example: If I lived in a town of people that always treated me bad, stole from me, took advantage of me, and were just flat out racist, why would I still choose to live there?

I have more respect for people like Marcus Garvey who just did not complain about America. He put into practice what he preached. He was also known as the father of the “Back to Africa” movement. Although short lived, he started a trans-Atlantic shipping company called the “Black Star” line. This line shipped goods as well as Black Americans who wanted to go to Africa.

Anyway, I digress. Check out Lana’s commentary: