(ThyBlackMan.com) Admittedly, I’m not a fan of statistics. So, when I read information about young Black men, I wince at the criticism that follows. Thus, I placed myself in the role of a confident, albeit slightly exacerbated male, and wrote the following commentary, as a tribute to African-American men who don’t make headlines, for all the wrong reasons.
As a fun-loving teen, whose only crime is confiscating my brother’s hip-hop memorabilia; I have no idea what it feels like to be a thug, or what my row dogs call a ghetto swaggering hood rat. Therefore, as an articulate and consciously aware Black man, don’t I have the right to be recognized, too? Or is it just the bad seeds that get all the attention while we “softies” linger in the background?
Contrary to how young Black men age 15-29 are depicted: limited education, criminal background and overwhelming victims of 
homicide; there are thousands of men making a difference for themselves, and their communities. Therefore, when I hear politicians and other well-intended hybrids analyzing us, or publicizing our plight, I am forced to dispel myths, which makes us the subject of unjust criticism.
To reiterate, as a young Black male, I am constantly asked by curious whites, what it feels like to be me. Expecting to hear complaints about anger, low self-esteem, and coming from a family where dad is absent, and mom is head of household. They don’t find me quite so interesting, when I tell them mom is an architect, and I am currently enrolled in college, seeking a degree in Entertainment Engineering and Design.
Not surprisingly, their impatience grows stronger, when I tell them I don’t drink, use drugs, or impregnate women for the hell of it. Adding more sensationalism to my life story, is the fact that I have never been arrested. With that said, they shrug their shoulders and tell me how lucky I am. Seriously, luck has nothing to do with who I am, or what I choose to become.
Based on the observations above, it seems whites can only relate to young Black men as rebellious badasses, whose lives can only be changed, if they are helped by the kindness of people of European descent. Granted, their intentions may be good, but I don’t need that kind of help. Because I can make my own decisions, without having some stranger map out my life for me.
Oh by the way, for that segment of the Black male population, who believe getting an education, and living the good life is only reserved for Caucasians, let me school you.
For starters, there is nothing wrong with using proper English, or deciphering math concepts without tearing your hair out. Nor is it wrong to convey respect, have a positive attitude or make full use of your talents. Finally, what’s wrong with going to college and priming yourself for success? Oh I forgot, you’re too busy taking a stand for Thug Nation United (TNU). Right, Chicago?
Hey man, that’s it. I’m sure that after reading this commentary, there are those who will refer to me as a sell -out, the typical response ignited by topics of this nature. Guess what? You’re entitled to your opinion. As for me, I will continue to live my life as a man who refuses to tarnish my heritage by acting as if I’m worthless, or worse yet, a loser. But hey man, if that’s your game, keep playing. Fortunately for you, I have enough love and integrity for both of us. Next!
Staff Writer; Peggy S. Butler
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