Anthony Appiah (“Reconstructing Racial Identities”) cites DuBois on the concept

Posted: April 22nd, 2022

Anthony Appiah (“Reconstructing Racial Identities”) cites DuBois on the concept “badge of color,” which DuBois views as a negative social label imposed by whites on African-Americans. Yet, Appiah argues that individuals actively construct racial and ethnic identities for themselves to express difference, solidarity with a chosen group, and even empowerment. Why are imposed racial or ethnic identities often viewed as negative “labels” when imposed by outside groups but at the same time may be affirming or empowering when chosen among members of ethnic or racial groups themselves? Provide specific examples from Appiah on these points using page numbers.