The Isis Papers: The Keys to the Colors

6
The Politics Behind Black Male
Passivity, Effeminization, Bisexuality,
and Homosexuality
(August 197 4)
Black male passivity, effeminization, bisexuality and homosexuality
are being encountered increasingly by Black psychiatrists working with
Black patient populations. These issues are being presented by family
members, personnel worldng in schools and other social institutions or by
Black men themselves. Many in the Black population are reaching the
conclusion that such issues have become a problem of epidemic proportion
amongst Black people in the U.S., although it was an almost nonexistent
behavioral phenomenon amongst indigenous Blacks in Africa.
As Black psychiatrists and behavioral scientists, we need to understand
fully the individual and social dynamics involved in these patterns of
behavior. We must be able to help our patients understand their conduct
and change it if they so desire. Also, we should be in a position to comment
on the ultimate implications of these behaviors for the well-being of Black
people - not simply as individuals, but as a whole organism of people
seeking life and maximal development.
In the final analysis, behavior is not simply an individual affair, for
when multiplied by thousands, it has profound effects on the life, future
existence and well-being of the total people.
In 1973, I presented my definition of Black mental health:
81