The Myth of Uplift

Dear Nella Larson,

It seems to me that there are two types of racial uplift. One is found by conforming to "white norms" and attempting to prove oneself as a valuable member of a white society-- this is what occurs at  Naxos. The other one, which is briefly mentioned by Helga, consists of uplifting that which makes one unique and individual in their black identity. There is no inherent difference in the quality of white versus black cultural identities, but black cultural identity is incredibly devalued in society, thus it seems to me that a form of uplift would be to embrace the "devalued" aspects-- wear bright colors to show off your dark skin, be spontaneous, and laugh a lot. The former method of "uplift" is neither productive nor enjoyable. In the end, it's reaffirming values of white supremacy, by showing that white culture/identity is superior, thus it is worth conforming to. In this manner, uplift will never truly bring about equality. Additionally, it forces the members of oppressed groups to rid themselves of their own cultural identities, which is obviously bemoaned in your book. "Uplift" in the traditional sense will in the end do more harm than it is worth, therefore we must partake in the second kind-- celebrate your origins and culture in the face of devaluation and animosity.

Uma Nagarajan-Swenson

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