"I too am America"

Langston Hughes' phrase, "I too am America," is a powerful declaration of belonging and identity. At its heart, it's about recognizing and affirming the presence and importance of every individual within the American fabric, regardless of their race, background, or social status. Hughes was asserting that African Americans are an integral part of America, contributing to its culture, history, and society just like anyone else.

To understand why Hughes felt compelled to say this, we need to step back into the 1920s and 1930s, during the Harlem Renaissance. This was a time when African American writers, artists, and musicians were asserting their cultural identity and creativity in a society that marginalized them. Hughes wrote this line during an era of severe racial segregation and discrimination. His poetry was a way to highlight the struggles and the intrinsic value of Black lives in America.

Consider a real-life example from the Civil Rights Movement. Think about Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old African American girl who became the first black child to desegregate an all-white elementary school in the South in 1960. Ruby's brave walk through angry, jeering crowds each day to attend school was a dramatic embodiment of the same principle Hughes was talking about. Her simple but profound act of attending school was a statement: "I too am America." She was claiming her rightful place in the educational system and, by extension, in American society.

So, how can we apply this wisdom today? It's about recognizing and affirming the value of every person in our communities. Think about the people around you—your coworkers, neighbors, or classmates. Each of them has a unique story and contributes something essential to the collective whole. When you see someone being marginalized or underestimated, remember Hughes' words. Stand up for them. Include them in conversations. Celebrate their contributions.

Now, imagine you’re at a high school reunion. There’s a guy, Tom, who was always the quietest in class, often overlooked. He’s there, standing by the punch bowl with no one talking to him. But over the years, Tom has become a successful software developer who’s also volunteered countless hours teaching kids to code. You walk over, strike up a conversation, and soon others join. By the end of the night, Tom is sharing his stories with the group, and everyone is richer for it. Much like Hughes’ assertion, this act acknowledges that we all have something valuable to offer—Tom included.

In every situation, keep this mindset: everyone’s voice matters. When you're in a meeting, encourage quieter team members to share their insights. If you're part of a community project, ensure all voices are heard and valued. This isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a fundamental piece of what makes a society thrive. Remember Hughes’ words as a reminder that inclusion and recognition are not just acts of kindness—they are acts of justice.

So next time you feel like a bystander, or see someone else being treated as one, channel Langston Hughes. Speak up, step in, and remember: we all belong. "I too am America" isn't just a quote. It's a call to action.