Institutional racism and the search for African American masculinity and identity in selected works of Richard Wright

What is positive Black masculinity? Who should define it? Khefa Nosakhere’s first nonfiction book, Institutional racism and the search for African American masculinity and identity in selected works of Richard Wright is a multi layered analysis of how American racism shaped the lives of 3 men. Bigger Thomas (Native Son) Richard Wright (Black Boy) and Fred Daniels (The Man Who Lived Underground). This is a work that will continue the discussion of rebuilding and refocusing on the traditional nuclear Black family. A strong nuclear family is a broad based answer to most of our problems. Since the centerpiece of the nuclear family is the man, understanding the socio-economic and political climate of this country is vital. Everyone seems to be able to define themselves freely and without argument except for African American males/men. A short Google search confirms when the term “Black masculinity” is typed in, numerous negative terms appear. Why is this the case? The answer is interwoven into the racist history of the United States. Professor Khefa Nosakhere is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana. He holds a BA in Literature and Language from the University of Southern California as well as a Masters degree in literature. His literary specialities are: 20th century literature, major authors, African American culture and Black Literary Criticism.