It is sometimes a real problem for a white worker to determine what he should say when he is asked to speak to an audience of colored people. How can he best bridge the gulf to a common understanding, get into the good graces of his hearers, and at the same time do justice to the subject? A speaker's success or failure here depends largely upon his foreknowledge of the people's "touchy" points—places where he should not tread.
Often the natural inclination, it seems, is to preface a sermon or remarks by some reference to the race, color, characteristics, dialect, or other mannerism of the colored people. But this is obviously an unfortunate mistake, and it is here that many unwittingly destroy the entire force of an otherwise excellent talk. In any case, what is to be said will depend for the most part upon the speaker ; and for this reason, no set form or subject can be suggested. Perhaps the most logical approach to the problem, therefore, might be made by simply stating what should not be said.
A speaker who begins his discourse to colored students by saying that he is well acquainted with them because he has worked among the heathen of Africa, has defeated his purpose from the start. While it is true that colored people came originally from Africa, the date was around 1619, and there are, of course, none of those originals alive in America today. Colored young people now have no firsthand knowledge of Africa, and they resent the idea of being classed with African heathen. If reference must be made to color, the more preferable term is "colored people." Never use the expressions, "darky," "black," or "nigger." They all engender prejudice and resentment. It would be far better to mention no race distinction at all.
A good talk is entirely neutralized when an untimely illustration is injected, which features an old colored man. Even though the wit of these stories is straight to the mark, they do not go over when told to colored people. Never refer to the expressions "dis" and "dat," which are used by illiterate colored people. They savor of depreciation, and do not help. The example of Christ is to the point: "His illustrations were so appropriate, His words so sympathetic and cheerful, that His hearers were charmed."—"Ministry of Healing," p. 24.
Even if there is only one colored person in your audience, it would be best to leave out any embarrassing reflections. By observing the foregoing principles, you will find that the hearts of these people will be willing and responsive.
