Black Identity in the Age of President Barack Obama

"Few institutions in our country have been under siege as long as the African American family,'' Sandra Jowers-Barber writes in 'The African American Family: Giving the Gift of Roots and Wings,' an essay in 'Family Affair: What it Means to be African-American Today,' an anthology edited by journalist Gil L. Robertson IV.

"The documented arrival of the first Africans in Jamestown in 1619 is the starting point from which the African American family can begin to trace its roots,'' writes Jowers-Barber, an assistant history professor at the University of the District of Columbia in Washington, D.C.

"In the 17th century, Africans taken from their families and tribes found themselves in the New World. Many times in this new and foreign environment, the concept of family had to be reinvented. In many cases, 'family' was adopted kin, others who shared similar circumstances or perhaps some tribal connections."

Today, despite years of upheaval and strife, the African American family structure continues to survive and maintain its identity. 'Family Affair,' a compilation of essays written by some of today's most prominent African Americans, attempts to address what it means to be African American today. The topic has taken a front-row seat with the election of President Barack Obama, who was born to an African father and a white mother, making the book appear timely and on the mark.

Besides Jowers-Barber, other essayists include Candi Carter, a senior producer for a syndicated television show and creator of the Hip Hop Baby children's educational DVD series; Max Siegel, the president of global operations at a top motor-sports franchise for Nascar; Beverly Johnson, the model; actresses Ruby Dee and Victoria Rowell; and U.S. Rep. Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-Mich).

Robertson was inspired to edit the essays -- and write one himself -- because he wanted to help Americans of all backgrounds gain a clearer sense of black identity in the U.S. "The problem has always been about identity and the value of that identity within our larger society,'' Robertson says. "'Family Affair' breaks through issues to reveal the commonality that we all share. We are all God's children, and despite our differences, it's time that we accept that we are equal.''

To be sure, Robertson does not proclaim that the election of President Obama is the elixir that will remedy issues of identity in the African American community. "We need to ask ourselves not what Barack Obama is going to do to effect change, but rather what each of us is going to do in our community's each day to make both those communities and the world a better place,'' Robertson says. "We, collectively, must produce change. Our efforts must personify the vision and goals articulated by our president.''

Below is an excerpt from Candi Carter's essay:
'Little Black Girl...in an All-White World'

"Now, as a businesswoman, wife, and mother, I reflect on my childhood experiences a bit differently than I did back then. It's a large part of why I strongly believe that you don't have to wear your blackness on your sleeve, announcing to the world in word, action, and deed, 'Hey, I'm black!' Look in the mirror, honey, they already know! It's something you intrinsically are -- not something you have to prove. Yes, I'm a dark-skinned woman, but you're going to love me for me. Give me an interview, and I'm going to knock your socks off! It's not because of affirmative action.

"Personally, I think my upbringing was an exercise in being able to understand the world and how to navigate it. The little black girl in an all-white world has carved out a niche for herself. That, most definitely, puts a smile on my face.''

Fabulous Mocha Moms

A Mocha Mom on Michelle Obama: "Mocha Moms across the country are thrilled that First Lady Michelle Obama has stated that she will be spending this season of her life as 'Mom-in-Chief.' It in some ways validates the choices our members have made to step away from high-powered careers to devote time to their families."

Jae C. Hong, AP

Cheli English-Figaro, Esq., Co-Founder and President Emerita of Mocha Moms, says: "When we started this organization in 1997, we knew it would grow. The trend toward women leaving full-time employment had already been established as families across the United States were re-discovering the benefits of having a home-based parent. However, African-American families were not recognized as being part of that trend in large numbers. We knew though, that African-American home-based moms existed and that if we built this organization, they would come. But even with that knowledge, we never anticipated the explosive growth which occurred. We were amazed and completely awestruck by the number of women who wanted to be a part of the organization."

Cheli English-Figaro, Esq.

Mocha Moms Inc. is open to women of all races and ethnicities. Angelina Jolie would make a perfect candidate as a woman with a multicultural family who puts her children and humanitarian activities before her career.

James Devaney, WireImage.com

What is the most positive aspect of being a mother who stays at home, or who has chosen a flexible career to make more time for her family? Cheli says: "I love the flexibility my lifestyle has afforded me. Even though I am employed, and have been since my oldest child (who is now 15) was less than two years old, I have chosen jobs that allow me the flexibility to work around my children's schedules... However, every woman's career choice is hers alone to make and only she knows what is right for her family. Further, many Mocha Moms are employed either part-time, flex-time or even full-time -- inside and outside the home."

Cheli with her family. The Mocha Moms National platform includes: "A strong commitment to marriage and to the support of our husbands: Mocha Moms, Inc. is committed to supporting the at-home mother of color as she sets the foundation for her family and learns and grows as a wife and/or partner."

Cheli English-Figaro, Esq.

A Mocha Moms Life Management Tip: "The best way to maintain an organized and efficient household while still having time to have fun with you husband, children and friends is to create a system or routine that works for you. I don't know too many moms who are incredibly enthusiastic and joyful about doing a mountain of laundry every Thursday, but the organization helps get those types of projects done."

The Smiths take family life to the red carpet. Here we see Jada with her actor-offspring Willow and Jaden. This Jada effortlessly mixes work, play and personal time, like many Mocha Moms do.

Jim Spellman, WireImage

Mocha Moms founder Cheli English-Figaro, Esq. names Julia Roberts as a very successful mother who has made it her choice to focus on family, when she has many other options. Here we see Roberts after giving birth to her third child, Henry Daniel Moder, with her two-year-old twins, Hazel Patricia and Phinnaeus Walter.

Fame Pictures

A Mocha Moms Money Management Tip: "Take a look at your saver-packs that are mailed home. Even some Web sites offer coupons for your favorite products or stores. Chat up your friendly neighborhood grocer (or clothing store owner) and learn what days (if any) are prime times for sales so you can plan your shopping accordingly."

Corbis

Actress Angela Bassett often makes her children Slater Vance and Bronwyn Vance a part of her professional life. Her life as a renowned actress also gives her the personal time she needs to focus on them. Is the Mocha Moms lifestyle for you?

Jason LaVeris, FilmMagic.com

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