On Washington and Du Bois

Wow. Both of these writings were very convincing. I found myself initially thinking Washington’s viewpoints sounded fairly logical. However, after reading Du Bois’s, I could definitely understand his criticism.

For starters, I like that the section before Washington’s address reminds the reader to consider the time and context in which it was presented. When one considers the fact that not long before this address African Americans were slaves, it enables the reader to better understand Washington’s suggestions and outlooks. Since African Americans were treated so severely in the past, I understand how this address would appeal to them.  Although African Americans would have to sacrifice full equality under Washington’s ideas, they would still begin to participate in society and in industrial education.  Washington would accept this because he was optimistic that African Americans would continue to rise from this small improvement by their individual effort.

 While this initially appealed to African Americans, I understand why many would disagree. Why should any human being have to submit to unjust treatment? …..Even if it was in the hope of future rights and in return for white man’s respect and apperception.  What do African Americans they owe them? Nothing. I can see how this would be infuriating. However, I also understand that you have to start from somewhere.

 

Du Bois effectively explained the flaws in Washington’s way of thinking. His writing was very captivating. I cannot even imagine how degrading and hopeless it would feel to be a “problem.” Du Bois addressed the fact that Washington was, essentially, suggesting that African Americans can only survive through submission. By doing so, they were giving up political power, civil rights, and higher education while they should be fighting for equal rights, instead. Du Bois’s last point was particularly poignant as he stated that it should not be African American’s burden to raise themselves in society. Not only should whites refrain from judging the African Americans in their efforts, as Washington stated, but they should also aid them. In Du Bois’s view, African Americans should not have to rise all by themselves. And why should they? It should be (have been) the white's reponsibility.