This assignment will cause many to react with emotions positive or negative. First and foremost, I want each and every student to read the essay first and then take a few moments to reflect on the essay. There are many different facets the issue brought up directly and indirectly. I want everyone to keep track on what I am asking and try not to "run down rabbit trails" when answering the questions.
Brian Gilmore wrote about his personal feelings as a African American after 9/11; American Government Reader, Black America and the Dilemma of Patriotism, p. 238. He attempted to relate his personal feelings to those that he believes resonate throughout the African American community of that day. (The essay was written in 2001)
1) Explain how the author described the attack of 9/11 in under-cutting the interests of African Americans.
2) Is the reaction described by the author a common thread for the African American community today? Justify your answer with references in the essay or with current media sources.