Many say that life as a black man is no different than any other person’s lived experience. Many say that life as a black man is easier because of affirmative action. Many say that life as a black man is cool because of black men who became famous based off their God-given talent. Many say that life as a black man must be nice in terms of getting a woman due to the famous stereotype that I won’t mention. Many say that life as a black man is exciting because we like to party.

As a black man, there are many things that I experience on a daily basis. For instance, as a black man, I wonder why every white woman I walk pass says sorry or looks down, or ceases from crossing paths? As a black man, I am cognizant of how much bass is in my voice because I never want to come off too aggressive. As a black man, I am reminded everyday of how it was never intended for me to attend a top-tier university as I am one of the only black students in my class, with no black professors to serve as a role model.

As a black man, I have to lessen myself for the comfort of others. To explain, for a long time, instead of standing or sitting tall, I often slouch while sitting or bow my head down to not stand out. As a black man, I have not received much encouragement to speak up in class. As a black man, I have been racially profiled and wrongfully issued an overpriced citation. As a black man, I did not have a voice for a long time.

As a black man, I am looked at crazy for not knowing who Young Joc is. As a black man, I am looked at crazy for not watching or playing sports. As a black man, I am looked at crazy for not partying. As a black man, I have to watch my back as I am walking down the street. As a black man, I have to be extra certain not to break any laws. As a black man, I have to see my race die every day due to police brutality, violence, etc. As a black man, I have to see people make a mockery of us by having black-face parties. As a black man, I have to hear people use and justify the 'n-word,' a term with a rich history of being used to degrade blacks. As a black man, I have been separated from my race through white men saying, “You’re different from the others." As a black man, I have experienced colorism at its worse. As a black man, I have been walked passed in stores. As a black man, I am not expected to do much. As a black man, I have to worry if someone will try to deport me out of this country or make my kind extinct.

As a black man, I hear people say that racism no longer exists. As a black man, I hear people say that blacks don’t want better for themselves. As a black man, I have to see many establishments, including many spaces on UIUC’s campus, not acknowledge Black History Month. As a black man, I will acknowledge it; not just this month, but everyday to pay homage to those who died for me to be here.

If I could say anything as a black man, I would say that despite the hate I receive from many based off the color of my skin, I will choose to love them anyway because as Dr. King Jr. said, "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." As a black man, I love everyone, especially those who fought for the rights and freedom that I have today!