<p>This is one unfortunate consequence of political correctness. The term African-American isn’t properly descriptive of what it really denotes. It seems to be saying “Americans who come from Africa”, but it really means “Americans who are black”. I believe that an ethnic group, or any group, has the right to be called whatever they prefer. However, I think that another term, such as the now-outdated “Afro-American”, might capture the spirit of being a black American better.</p>
<p>I would not suggest that we use such terms as Negro, which have obviously taken on a racist connotation, but Afro-American still seems like a viable term to me. Is it? Or does it in fact have racist connotations that I’m not aware of? And is the term “black Americans” acceptable? Please educate me.</p>