Labels are just words, but they can really affect how we feel about ourselves and each other. As a Black woman, I’ve seen how the words used for my race have changed over time—sometimes fast, sometimes awkwardly, and often with strong feelings. It makes me wonder: Why do these words matter so much, and why do they sometimes make people uncomfortable or upset?
Labels aren’t just empty words; they carry a lot of meaning. For some people, they’re a source of pride, while for others, they remind them of hard times and unfair treatment. Words like “Negro,” “Colored,” “Black,” and “African American” not only show how language changes but also mark different moments in history and how people see themselves. Some of these terms remind us of painful times, like segregation, while others are chosen by the community to show pride and independence. What makes it tricky is that not everyone agrees on which words to use, and the same word can mean different things to different people.
So why do these labels make people feel uneasy? Sometimes, people worry about saying the wrong thing and being seen as ignorant or rude. Other times, it hurts when someone else puts a label on you that doesn’t fit or wasn’t your choice. Talking about race and labels isn’t just about words—it’s about who gets to decide what we’re called, who feels included, and who gets to share their own story. When someone labels my background, it makes me think about who is really in control of the conversation.
Through it all, I remind myself that my true identity comes from God—I am made in His image. The names I use for myself are more than just checkboxes; they’re part of a rich history, my faith, and my family. They help me remember where I come from and the future I hope to build.
The big deal about labels is really about something deeper: trying to face our history, fight for fairness, and find ways to connect as people. Words matter because they change how we see ourselves and how others see us. They can bring us together or push us apart. That’s why talking about labels is important—not because one word can tell our whole story, but because deciding what we call ourselves helps us shape our own future.
God sees all the hurt and division caused by racism. Even if He hasn’t stepped in yet, it doesn’t mean He won’t. God cares deeply about justice, and He promises to heal and restore things in His time. As people of faith, we’re called to trust God, work toward unity, and believe that He’ll make things right in the end.
In the end, the most important label is the one I give myself as a believer in Christ: loved, valuable, and created in God’s image. Everything else is just part of the ongoing journey of growing, loving, and learning together.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 