Villains or Virtuosos: An Inquiry Into Blackmaleness

• In Event: 66.060 - Issues of Race, Gender, and Identity Development

Abstract

This essay synthesizes insights and experiences gleaned from autoethnographies of nine highly educated Black males, and develops a tentative model for understanding the array of perils and possibilities set before African American males in education. This synthesis represents the foundation for a grounded theory on Black male development based upon the lived experiences of “successful” Black male P-20 educators. The researchers theorize that blackmaleness or the multidimensional, shifting, and oftentimes contradictory reality of Black males has two extremes, and a void the must be traversed through contemplation, choice and chance to solidify a truer and productive Black male identity. Recommendations for educators, parents and policy-makers concerned with promoting the matriculation of Black males along productive life pathways are considered.

Authors

• Marlon C. James, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Chance W. Lewis, University of North Carolina - Charlotte