I'm an Italian/Irish American woman and I'm also a writer/editor who has used AP style in the past.

I was puzzled by your use of the upper-case B and the lower-case w. Now that I know your reasons, I can see that there is a logic behind your decision.

Still, when I see the words "Black" and "white" next to each other in print, it feels like my group is less respected.

In general, I strive for better words than these two polarizing colors to describe ourselves. In terms of color, I am more of a "peach-colored" American.

Kudos for your article! I thought it was insightful.

I had two additional comments. One has to do with the reference to African Americans being descendents of slaves. By and large this is true, but unfortunately this leaves out those African Americans who are descendents of non-enslaved Africans.

Secondly, the term, "descendents of slaves" might be more correctly and compassionately stated as "descendents of people (or Africans) who were enslaved."

The former term is a blaming one and implies an almost permanent state of beingness, as if slavery was inherent in or imperative to the identity of the person referenced.

The latter term allows for the group's consideration as human beings, a group of people for whom there was culture and group identity, and upon whom the condition of enslavement was wrought.

I am an African American woman.

When I lived in Europe and visited other countries, I was referred to as American by other nationalities including Africans. I wasn't black until I returned to America. I don't ignore our differences but also believe focus on the difference weakens us. I don't mind Black but I prefer American! I look forward to the day when we see ourselves as the world sees us!

Malcolm X used the term Afro-Americans or Black -- African Americans as a term didn't come about until the 80's

I think it is so important for people to not only look at how we use terminology within the country, but be inquisitive about how others outside the USA describe us. As someone who travels to Africa frequently, they commonly use Black . So, I have embraced being a Black American.

I'm okay with capitalizing the "w" in White, it doesn't take anything away from me as a Black American. But I also understand editor's privilege - you do what you feel is best for the readership.

Just my thoughts.