Why Is We American

In Why Is We American Baraka addresses historical, racial and economic realities of the making of America. Focusing on the excerpt of the poem, discuss ways in which this poem is or is not informed by the idea of the veil that is introduced by Du Boise in Souls of Black Folk. In doing so, discuss how Baraka addresses the American identity, including and beyond African-American identity, and how his way is similar and/or different from that of Du Boise.

You can compare the ideas that Amiri Baraka initiates in his poem with the argument that Du Bois is making in the 2 chapters of Soul of Black Folks. You may also argue how different and/or similar the ideas of these two major leaders are when it comes to the African Nation, African-American, Integrity, and Identity. It is always helpful to reflect on our society today and discuss if any of the topics they are concerned with is/is not relevant to us/ our society.