Melanin: What Makes Black People Black by Llaila Afrika
Dr. Afrika’s definition of what makes Black People “Black” is Melanin. If melanin was
what makes one black, then why are the African People the only ones to be called “Black” and
other races are not considered black although they a dark skin tone?” So therefore, melanin is
the cause of darker skin’ but does not make one “Black.”
This is what Dr. Afrika says that makes one “Black”. “Melanin is a complex polymer derived
from the amino acid tyrosine. Melanin is responsible for determining our skin and hair color.
Melanin is present in the skin to varying degrees which fluctuates depending on how much a
certain population has been exposed to the sun historically.
Melanin is a complex biochemical substance that affects the inside and outside of your
body. It controls all pigments of the skin no matter what color your skin is. It is a natural
compound that is found in plants and throughout nature and is produced through a gland in our
brain.
The lack of melanin levels can control our body cells, reproductive and nerve system.
This can cause mood swings and a lack of concentration if the levels are not correct for that
person; this is especially true for those with black skin. Unfortunately Melanin levels are
lowered by everyday things such as neon or artificial lightning, TV and more causing you to feel
depressed on a daily basis.
Eating the wrong foods can also cause levels of melanin to lower such as “Junk Food”.
Chemicals that you use on your body such as cosmetics with certain chemicals can suppress the
levels as well. You need to do your own research on all foods and cosmetics that you use to help
eliminate these chemicals from your lifestyle.
Keeping your melanin level normal will help you with your blood pressure,
reproduction system (in women) and controlling mood swings. There are Melanin supplements
that can be of use for you. These supplements can be purchased over-the counter.” The problem
with understanding “melanin” is that it is “science of Caucasians and of course, White male
centered.”(Afrika pgs. 6-34) Dr. Afrika did not give an in depth analysis of what makes “Black
People Black.”
Although Dr. Afrika gives a so called scientific version of what makes Black people
Black, he does not give a thorough definition of what truly makes a black person. Besides
Melanin, another unique factor that makes black people is their traits. There are a number of
differences between black individuals, compared to others.
Blacks have the most beautiful bodies and facial features. Starting with the face, black
people have wider set eyes, larger noses, higher cheek bones and thicker lips. Another
distinguishing feature is their hair. Black people’s hair is coarser and more tightly curled.
Moving down to the body, a black person’s buttock is larger and their legs are narrow and
stronger.
Black people's skin varies in a rainbow of colors, their skin tone range from having a dark
skin color to a very light color. Black people have a different stride when they walk, this along
with their great rhythm makes them better dancers; they have invented their own music and also
have a special language (Ebonics). Blacks are not educated in the “White man’s way”, but are
educated in survival. The Black race is so unique, that others have tried to imitate them through
songs, dances, and style. Even the Caucasians have tried to imitate the skin color of Black people
by methods of darkening their skin, but have failed.
