If You Want To Hide Something From A Negro Quote
“If You Want To Hide Something From A Negro, Put It In A Book” is a quote that has been attributed to many people over the years. Some say it was comedian and civil rights activist Dick Gregory, while others claim it was Malcolm X or even Mark Twain. Regardless of who said it first, the sentiment behind the quote is clear: black people are not known for their love of reading.
This stereotype has persisted for decades, and has been used to justify everything from the lack of diversity in publishing to the achievement gap in education. But is there any truth to it? Are black people really less likely to read than their white counterparts?
The History of the Stereotype
The stereotype of the illiterate black person has its roots in slavery. Enslaved people were often forbidden from learning to read and write, as their owners believed that education would lead to rebellion. This lack of access to education continued long after slavery was abolished, as black people were often denied admission to schools and libraries.
During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, black activists began to push back against this stereotype. They argued that black people were just as capable of learning and reading as anyone else, and that the lack of access to education was a deliberate attempt to keep them oppressed.
The Reality of Reading Habits
So, are black people really less likely to read than white people? The answer is complicated.
According to a 2014 study by the Pew Research Center, 80% of black adults reported reading a book in the previous 12 months, compared to 84% of white adults. While this may seem like a small difference, it is statistically significant.
However, the same study found that black adults were more likely than white adults to read books on a variety of topics, including religion, self-help, and social science. They were also more likely to read books on electronic devices like e-readers and tablets.
The Importance of Representation
Regardless of the statistics, it is clear that representation matters when it comes to reading. If black people are not seeing themselves reflected in the books they read, they are less likely to be interested in reading in the first place.
That's why it is so important for publishers to prioritize diversity in their books. When black children see themselves represented in the stories they read, they are more likely to develop a love of reading that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.
The Harmful Effects of Stereotypes
So, why does the stereotype of the illiterate black person persist? The answer is simple: it is harmful.
When people believe that black people are less intelligent or less capable of learning, they are less likely to invest in their education or hire them for jobs that require advanced skills. This perpetuates the cycle of poverty and inequality that has plagued black communities for generations.
Conclusion
The quote “If You Want To Hide Something From A Negro, Put It In A Book” may be a well-known stereotype, but it is not an accurate one. Black people are just as capable of reading and learning as anyone else, and the stereotype only serves to perpetuate harmful myths and prejudices.
It is up to all of us to challenge these stereotypes and work towards a more equitable and just society.