August Wilson

August Wilson left behind a legacy with his plays. They were all about the African American experience during the 20^th century and were known as the “Century Cycle” or “Pittsburgh Cycle” which covered every decade of the 20^th century. Through his plays, he was able to communicate a message about race. Many people today can still watch his work. His legacy gives insight into what it was like for African Americans in the United States. It also shows the effect that race has had in the U.S. In the article I read, a teacher got in trouble for using the n-word in his sixth-grade classroom. Although it was taken out of context, he still got in trouble for it. The article talked about how the context in which someone uses the word- their aims, effects, and alternatives- is important. Some rappers have said that they use the word, which has been historically used by whites to degrade and oppress them, and turn it into something beautiful that they can call their own. It can be used as a sign of respect or to show affection toward each other. Also, as a playwright, August Wilson had the power to share his thoughts and opinions on the topic, like many people can do today. People have the ability to express how they feel about race. A person’s power and who they are can have an influence on how a person’s race is used in society. In the same article about the teacher that used the n-word, for example, he said that he used the word to show his students what it would be like to hear the word from someone they respected, hoping they might reconsider using it.