In this country American means white. Everybody else has to hyphenate

In this country American means white. Everybody else has to hyphenate

Toni Morrison, a renowned African American author, often explored themes of race, identity, and belonging in her works. One of the most powerful statements she made on the topic of race in America was, “In this country American means white. Everybody else has to hyphenate.” This quote succinctly captures the pervasive racism and discrimination faced by non-white individuals in the United States.

Morrison's words highlight the inherent bias and privilege that white Americans hold in society. The idea that being American is synonymous with being white reinforces the notion that whiteness is the default, the norm, and everything else is seen as "other." This creates a hierarchy where white Americans are considered the standard against which all others are judged and marginalized.

The concept of hyphenation, as Morrison describes it, refers to the practice of attaching a hyphenated prefix to one's identity in order to denote their non-whiteness. For example, African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic-American, etc. This practice of hyphenation serves to further separate and categorize individuals based on their race, perpetuating the idea that they are somehow different or less than those who are simply considered "American."

Morrison's quote also speaks to the struggle for non-white individuals to fully claim their American identity without facing discrimination or prejudice. Despite their contributions to American society, culture, and history, non-white individuals are often made to feel like outsiders in their own country. This constant othering and marginalization can have profound psychological and social effects on individuals who are constantly reminded that they do not fit the mold of what it means to be American.

Overall, Morrison's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the deep-seated racism and inequality that continues to plague American society. It challenges us to confront our biases, question our assumptions, and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals are truly seen and valued as Americans, regardless of their race or ethnicity.