Who is Afraid of Blackness and Black Influence in America? A Reflection on the Neglect of Black Inventors in Historical Narratives

A Synopsis

Who is Intimidated by Blackness and African American Influence in America? This short essay is inspired by a video I watched a few days ago, highlighting the historical neglect of seven Black inventors whose contributions to American greatness remain largely unrecognised or uncelebrated.

It also draws attention to the troubling trend of erasing Black history through the removal of books, images, and educational materials from public institutions across the country.

In the interest of peace and personal security, I have deliberately chosen not to name the institutions and individuals leading the campaign to erase Black history and wage a quiet war against Black identity. However, make no mistake, their actions are calculated and deeply harmful to our shared purpose, national unity, and the hard-won progress achieved through the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

DEI and a Distorted Narrative

There remains a persistent tendency to diminish the creative ingenuity, innate wisdom, and intellectual contributions of Black individuals, often under the guise of critiquing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. 

These criticisms frequently suggest that DEI weakens national identity, greatness, or excellence, while overlooking the historical reality that Black achievement has long been central to America's progress.

Black communities have long demonstrated exceptional contributions to society through architectural and construction prowess, skilled craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial expertise. 

From designing and building enduring structures to establishing thriving businesses against systemic odds, their achievements reflect a legacy of resilience, innovation, and economic independence. 

Yet, these contributions are too often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives, despite their undeniable impact on shaping American cities, institutions, and commerce.

Historical Facts

For instance, the heroics of the Tuskegee Airmen, Black pilots who served with distinction during World War II despite systemic racism, are seldom acknowledged.

Even less frequently mentioned is Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a thriving economic centre, created by Blacks for Blacks that was violently destroyed in one of the worst acts of racial terrorism in U.S. history.

These omissions prompt a critical question: Who, or what, is truly threatened by the recognition and celebration of Blackness?

Unless you can demonstrate that you outperformed them in combat operations, or that their leadership failures directly contributed to your unit’s defeat, your critique—whether rooted in hostility toward DEI, anti-Black narratives, or deliberate exclusion—lacks sound judgment and any serious foundation in professional military ethics.

Conclusion

Erasing their history, literature, images, and legacies from public institutions and buildings in the U.S. borders on cowardice, racism, and insecurity. Such an approach undermines the principles of nation-building and does not align with the long-term goals of sustainable national development and inclusive governance.

Embracing and celebrating their unique contributions, however seemingly minor, alongside other American patriots and heroes in public spaces and institutions, enriches our nation. And that's the first step towards reinforcing American greatness.