How to Be Black

1. Embrace the complexity of black identity in America

Be not afraid of blackness. Some are born black. Some achieve blackness, and others have blackness thrust upon them.

Blackness is multifaceted. The author, Baratunde Thurston, explores the various dimensions of black identity in America, drawing from his own experiences and those of others. He challenges the notion of a monolithic black experience, highlighting the diversity within the black community.

Historical context matters. Thurston emphasizes the importance of understanding black history to fully grasp the complexities of modern black identity. He discusses:

• The impact of slavery and segregation
• The Civil Rights Movement
• The ongoing struggle for equality and representation

Personal experiences shape identity. The author shares anecdotes from his life, including:

• Growing up in Washington, D.C. during the crack epidemic
• Attending an elite private school
• Navigating predominantly white spaces

2. Confront and challenge racial stereotypes with humor

I'm a really nice guy. I like to smile. I have a naturally diplomatic disposition, and I'd generally rather reason with you and use humor than argue or fight.

Humor as a tool for change. Thurston advocates for using comedy to address racial issues and challenge stereotypes. He demonstrates how humor can:

• Disarm tension in uncomfortable situations
• Make difficult conversations more accessible
• Expose the absurdity of racist attitudes

Satirical approach to stereotypes. The author employs satire throughout the book to highlight and debunk common stereotypes about black people. Examples include:

• The myth that black people can't swim
• The expectation that all black people like certain types of music or food
• The assumption that black people are inherently angry or confrontational

Balance between humor and seriousness. While using comedy, Thurston also emphasizes the importance of addressing serious racial issues. He shows how humor can be a gateway to more profound discussions about race and identity.

3. Navigate the dual roles of being The Black Employee

The truth is, you have two jobs.

Balancing professional and racial identities. Thurston explores the challenges black employees face in predominantly white workplaces. He explains that black employees often have to juggle:

1. Their official job responsibilities
2. The unspoken role of representing their race

Strategies for success. The author offers advice for navigating these dual roles, including:

• Building relationships with colleagues across racial lines
• Choosing when to speak up about racial issues
• Maintaining authenticity while adapting to workplace culture

Addressing microaggressions. Thurston discusses common microaggressions black employees may encounter and provides strategies for dealing with them, such as:

• Using humor to defuse tense situations
• Educating colleagues when appropriate
• Knowing when to pick your battles

4. Recognize the power of being The Black Friend

The Black Friend is a national hero and should be honored for exemplary service.

Cultural bridge-building. Thurston emphasizes the importance of interracial friendships in fostering understanding and breaking down barriers. He explains how The Black Friend can:

• Provide insights into black culture and experiences
• Challenge stereotypes through personal relationships
• Create opportunities for honest dialogue about race

Responsibilities and challenges. The author acknowledges the potential burden of being The Black Friend, including:

• Feeling pressure to represent all black people
• Navigating uncomfortable conversations about race
• Balancing authenticity with the desire to educate others

Personal growth opportunities. Thurston highlights how being The Black Friend can lead to:

• Developing cross-cultural communication skills
• Gaining a deeper understanding of one's own identity
• Contributing to positive social change

5. Understand the responsibilities of speaking for all black people

There are two types of issues: those that have to do with black people and everything else. You must be prepared to comment on both.

The burden of representation. Thurston explores the expectation often placed on black individuals to speak on behalf of their entire race. He discusses:

• The pressure to have an opinion on all "black issues"
• The challenge of balancing personal views with perceived group expectations
• The risk of being seen as "not black enough" or "too black"

Strategies for navigating expectations. The author offers advice for handling the role of spokesperson, including:

• Acknowledging the diversity of black experiences and opinions
• Using personal anecdotes to illustrate broader points
• Redirecting conversations to focus on systemic issues rather than individual experiences

Media representation. Thurston critiques the media's tendency to seek out a single "black voice" and offers suggestions for more nuanced representation of black perspectives in public discourse.

6. Embrace your own version of blackness

Dream bigger. Just be, and the blackness will follow.

Rejecting narrow definitions. Thurston encourages readers to embrace their unique experiences and interests, regardless of whether they align with stereotypical notions of blackness. He emphasizes:

• The diversity of black experiences and identities
• The importance of authenticity in self-expression
• The value of exploring interests beyond racial identity

Expanding cultural horizons. The author advocates for black individuals to:

• Explore a wide range of cultural experiences
• Embrace interests that may be perceived as "non-black"
• Challenge preconceived notions about what it means to be black

Overcoming internalized limitations. Thurston discusses the importance of:

• Recognizing and challenging self-imposed limitations
• Seeking out role models who defy stereotypes
• Cultivating a sense of possibility and potential

7. Contribute to the evolution of black culture and identity

I think that we're living through almost a second Harlem Renaissance.

Cultural renaissance. Thurston highlights the ongoing evolution of black culture and identity in America, drawing parallels to historical movements like the Harlem Renaissance. He discusses:

• The impact of social media and technology on cultural expression
• The emergence of new voices and perspectives in art, literature, and music
• The blending of traditional and contemporary cultural elements

Embracing innovation. The author encourages readers to:

• Explore new forms of cultural expression
• Challenge traditional narratives about black identity
• Contribute their unique voices to the ongoing dialogue

Building on history. Thurston emphasizes the importance of:

• Understanding and honoring black history
• Using historical context to inform contemporary cultural expression
• Creating new traditions and cultural touchstones for future generations

8. Prepare for the challenges of being a black leader

Clearly, this is a lot to ask for, but I'm just laying out the ideal circumstances.

Navigating expectations. Thurston discusses the unique challenges faced by black leaders, particularly in political contexts. He explores:

• The pressure to represent all black people
• The scrutiny and criticism from both within and outside the black community
• The delicate balance between addressing racial issues and appealing to a broader constituency

Strategies for success. The author offers advice for aspiring black leaders, including:

• Developing a strong support network
• Cultivating a diverse range of skills and experiences
• Being prepared to address racial issues while avoiding being pigeonholed

Breaking new ground. Thurston emphasizes the importance of:

• Challenging traditional power structures
• Creating opportunities for other black individuals to lead
• Using leadership positions to effect positive change for the black community and society at large

9. Recognize that post-racial America is a myth

Post-racial America is some bullshit.

Persistent racial disparities. Thurston debunks the notion of a "post-racial" America, highlighting ongoing inequalities in areas such as:

• Education
• Employment
• Criminal justice
• Wealth accumulation

The danger of colorblindness. The author critiques the idea that ignoring race will solve racial issues, arguing that this approach:

• Ignores the real-world impacts of systemic racism
• Prevents meaningful conversations about racial inequality
• Perpetuates existing power structures

Moving forward. Thurston advocates for:

• Acknowledging and addressing ongoing racial disparities
• Engaging in honest conversations about race and privilege
• Working towards equity and justice while recognizing the complexity of racial issues

10. Use art and satire to address racial issues

The role of satire in talking about race is essential. I can't stress enough how important it is.

Power of creative expression. Thurston and other artists interviewed in the book emphasize the importance of using art, comedy, and satire to address racial issues. They discuss how these mediums can:

• Make difficult conversations more accessible
• Challenge stereotypes and preconceptions
• Expose the absurdity of racist attitudes and systems

Creating dialogue. The author highlights how artistic expression can:

• Foster empathy and understanding across racial lines
• Encourage self-reflection and critical thinking about race
• Provide a platform for marginalized voices and experiences

Balancing entertainment and education. Thurston and others discuss the challenges of:

• Creating work that is both entertaining and thought-provoking
• Addressing serious issues without alienating audiences
• Using humor responsibly when dealing with sensitive topics

Last updated: January 23, 2025