In "Let America Be America Again," Langston Hughes poignantly expresses the disillusionment of African Americans in a society that promised freedom and equality yet delivered oppression and marginalized experiences. Hughes emphasizes the struggle for identity and justice, stating, “I am the Negro, Black and beautiful.” This line reflects the pride and resilience of African Americans, which is a central theme during the Harlem Renaissance, a period marked by extraordinary artistic and cultural expression. Artists and writers sought to reclaim their narrative, highlighting both their struggles and aspirations. The Harlem Renaissance was not just a celebration of African American culture; it was also a cry for recognition and equality. Hughes' works encapsulate the yearning for a true America where the ideals of the American Dream could be accessible to all, underscoring that the fight for civil rights was ongoing beyond the confines of that era. This longing for authenticity and justice continues to resonate today, illustrating the long arc of the African American experience in a society that has often failed to live up to its promises.
Excerpt from let America be America again by Langston Hughes
Refer to the two documents above to help you to formulate an argument on what the artists were trying to portray about the African American situation in the years of the Harlem Renaissance and moving forward. Write at least one paragraph of 3 to 5 complete sentences with evidence and examples with what you know and from the documents above.
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