First Rhetorical Analysis

A Rhetorical Analysis of 'cuz he's black 

Dr. Javon Johnson is an assistant professor at San Francisco State University and holds a Ph.D. in Performance Studies from Northwestern University. In his slam poem “‘cuz he’s black.”, Dr. Johnson examines the issues of racial profiling, police brutality, and the general atmosphere that African Americans are raised within. Through the medium of a personal experience, Johnson expresses his view that “poor black boys are treated as problems well before they are treated as people” (Johnson 32). In other words, young black Americans are falling victim over and over to our society’s demeaning perception of who they are rather than being treated as equal to the other citizens of this nation.

              

Dr. Johnson’s message comes during a rebirth of American movements such as Black Lives Matter that focus on bringing an end to the brutality and murders that taint this nation’s police force. By coming forward at this time with his message, Johnson has given more weight to his opinion and experience. Multiple incidents and accusations and trials have put this issue in the national spotlight. Years ago, Dr. Johnson’s words would have made an impact in only a small pocket of society. However, now that large amounts of evidence have come forth to support the assertion that police brutality has once again become a problem, this work of art pierces deeper into the heart of anyone listening.

              

By beginning his performance in a lighthearted and relatable tone, Johnson reminds his audience of his humanity before delving into the true argument of his piece. Anyone who has ever been given the responsibility to watch over a young relative or child or neighbor understands the curiosity that Dr. Johnson was forced to answer to in his story. He made it clear that black and white children and adults are the same. He exhibits that a child’s mind and heart is not differentiated by skin color.

              

Johnson then diverges from this opening atmosphere with the words of his nephew, “Oh man, Uncle, 5-0, we gotta hide” (Johnson 16). He makes it clear that while children are born equal, they are forced to be raised in different ways. At the same time that white children are usually taught to appreciate and feel safe with officers of the law, black children often learn a much different lesson. Young African Americans grow up with the reality that they will unjustly be considered criminals before ever getting to explain themselves. An example that Johnson provides is his advice to “Be aware of how quickly your hands move to pocket for wallet or ID, be more aware of how quickly the officer's hand moves to holster, for gun” (Johnson 44).

              

Johnson’s words shed more intimate light on the way that the lives of African Americans are impacted due to the fear instilled in them by officers of the law. An understanding of this country’s outlook on the issue as well as the inclusion of situations that his audience can relate to allows Dr. Johnson to effectively inform and persuade others of the pressing importance this issue demands. 

Cited Source:

Johnson, Javon. “'cuz he’s black.” Genius. Accessed 10 September 2016. http://genius.com/Javon-johnson-cuz-hes-black-annotated. 

For other rhetorical analysis posts check out these blogs!

Emily Weaver: emibluerhetoric.blogspot.com


Damien Raymond: draymondwritinginrhetoric.blogspot.com