Negro boy near Cincinnati, Ohio (LOC)
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Where: Unknown
Try to find the spot where the photographer was standing.
When: 01 January 1942
Try to find the date or year when this image was made.
Vachon, John,, 1914-1975,, photographer.
Negro boy near Cincinnati, Ohio
[1942 or 1943]
1 slide : color.
Notes:
Title from FSA or OWI agency caption.
Transfer from U.S. Office of War Information, 1944.
Subjects:
African Americans--Children
United States--Ohio--Cincinnati
Format: Slides--Color
Rights Info: No known restrictions on publication.
Repository: Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C. 20540 USA, hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.print
Part Of: Farm Security Administration - Office of War Information Collection 11671-28 (DLC) 93845501
General information about the FSA/OWI Color Photographs is available at hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.fsac
Higher resolution image is available (Persistent URL): hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/fsac.1a34281
Call Number: LC-USF35-276
Source: Flickr Commons
Views: 195876
Negro boy near Cincinnati, Ohio
[1942 or 1943]
1 slide : color.
Notes:
Title from FSA or OWI agency caption.
Transfer from U.S. Office of War Information, 1944.
Subjects:
African Americans--Children
United States--Ohio--Cincinnati
Format: Slides--Color
Rights Info: No known restrictions on publication.
Repository: Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C. 20540 USA, hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.print
Part Of: Farm Security Administration - Office of War Information Collection 11671-28 (DLC) 93845501
General information about the FSA/OWI Color Photographs is available at hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.fsac
Higher resolution image is available (Persistent URL): hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/fsac.1a34281
Call Number: LC-USF35-276
Info:
Owner: The Library of CongressSource: Flickr Commons
Views: 195876
libraryofcongress
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boy
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lomokev
is it necessary to label the photo "Negro boy" surly "boy" will do or if needed to make reference to his race for historical context surly African American. just like to point out that i am not PC mad just thought this title was a little odd. after all this guy is probably alive wonder what he would think to being called "Negro boy"
[kren]
I guess it must be the original title, or the agency caption as mentioned above. I don't see anything wrong in keeping that title, it reminds us of the mindset of some people in that time and it could even be an anti-racist statement.
third twig
I Like the photo but not the tittle.
styler*
yes but the title is part of the times the image was taken in therefore the title itself has a historical context. it might not be nice or acceptable context, but to change the title as given by the original photographer, changes history. Essentially whitewashing the past.
Emily Barney
The titles are all drawn from the original descriptions of the photos - if you browse around on the Library of Congress's American Memory project you'll see a lot of outdated terms sometimes, but that's the way people talked back then. This is part of why they need help from people tagging pictures - we look for pictures using different words than the photographers or librarians back then would have used.
glamorous snow
You wouldn't tell the UNCF or NAACP to change their names would you? (Maybe some would)
yonas.h
Fantastic portrait. But not diggin' the title. Cheers.
Martino's doodles
I'm all for keeping the title but it should be made clear that it is the original one.
Brian T Wright
The title is fine...get over it. At the time that this photo was taken the title was widely accepted; remember that this was before civil rights became widely accepted. It's okay to get nervous now about the use of the descriptor "negro" as we have evolved into a more caring society, but don't judge the chosen title based upon current sensibilities as if to say that the title was originally chosen as a negative descriptor. It was most likely just a common use of the word.
rmcarrier1
The title is original. If they scanned in a copy of a newspaper from 1942, would you want them to change the headline because it contained a derogatory term for the Japanese? This is history, "warts and all." The title is equally important to the photo itself. Afterall, what is an image worth if there isn't any context? Photographically, this photo is just fantastic. The DOF is just phenomenal.
delightful bulb
I agree with Martino's doodles.. it should be clearer that this is the original title of the photograph
Miserlou Behind The Aperture
This kid is clearly the shit. Hat lookin hell of dapper.
Crankydragon
The little boy is adorable. Wonderful DoF. -- Seen in your 1930s-40s in Color set. (?)
Amber... Bamberboo
I have spent far to long looking through these photos... I am transfixed. These slides, with their vivid color and textures, make me truly believe for the first time that my grandparents lives were, indeed, not lived in black and white!! Leave the title and the history in tact - we live and learn. If we forget why we have evolved, will we remember to keep the ground we have claimed?
D.Michael1
Negro wasn't a slur back then it was just a name. The reason why people thought it was offensive and needed to be changed escapes me as well. Why exactly is "black" preferable to "negro"? Perhaps because it's closer to that real slur but I just think society likes to invent offenses to be self-righteous and indignant about.
Masque
To those asking for clarity on the origin of the caption, please take note of the aptly-named notes section, and this text: Title from FSA or OWI agency caption. History isn't always pretty; neither always are the ways in which we view it from the present. The important part here is that the photo is splendid. I wonder if this gentleman is still around.
The Queen of No
lol @ people getting offended by a title that was applied during the time the photo was developed. come on.
pennylrichardsca (now at ipernity)
A 1964 oral history interview with photographer John Vachon: www.aaa.si.edu/collections/oralhistories/transcripts/vach...
joys_catalina
I have been browsing for over an hour! These pictures are absolutely stunning. The photographer captured the essence of this boy- so earnest and intense. He must be more than 70 by now...
scheiro
Splendid portrait ! Very beautiful capture !
pojoel
Do the politically correct people here also believe that "Rio Negro" should be renamed to "African American River"? The origin is the latin word "nigrum" which means "black" (Black Pepper = Piper Nigrum). From there it came to Spanish and Portuguese as "negro"
B-Side Americana
Excellent point, Somebody's Fool!
enormous mandible
At that time, "Negro" was not derogatory, but descriptive. Language and attitudes have changed. (Last sentence deliberately in passive voice.)
Craig Moyer
Its the original title. You guys fail.
ashley?autaubo
I love how all the people commenting on how they don't like the title are white...why don't we ask an African American what their thoughts. I agree that it is not racist. It was for that time, but that time has passed and now the title is more historic. That is what they were called back then. I have a diary from one of my family members who was a slave and she referred to herself as a colored woman. I don't think it is offensive.
ashley?autaubo
She also referred to herself as well as her family members as "negro" people. It's the same as saying "black."
gautamcse
is the title original ?
against the tide
Not all 'black' people are African and they dont automatically mean they are American too. People who are saying that they should re-title this as 'African American'; do you surely know the boy is both African and American ? Surely if he is not, then that is being prejudice is it not ? Does it not sounds a little presumptuous ? There are black people from Trinidad, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Australia, Jamaica or even India. Awesome photo and the title is not a racist remark, rather a statement of the period.
deadpan sofa
nice :)
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eoc
Laura Greco
lovely :)))))
RobertoA
Bella foto (good shot) Compliments, I like it
If you like you can add this photo to the Picture at an Exhibition group.
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chivalrous guitar
Original title or not...the one thing all the whiners need to remember is this - NEGRO is an accetable term, as is colored. What do you think the "C" in NAACP stands for? Also, this is clearly a photograph of a young boy. All the people who have left comments about not liking the title should ask yourself one question. If you were in Italy, say on vacation...and a cute lil boy was playing cars on some stairs outside a villa...a scene you just had to photograph! You get home, upload the photo to your computer so you can upload it to Flickr...mmm title.."Aah yes" "Italian Boy Playing Outside Villa" or maybe some simply "Italian Boy". Whose offended? Are you? Is that child? Prolly not. The fact of the matter is, we are all equal, but race issues overthe years have escalated to the point that the anglo person is now afraid to be anglo, or to use the term Negro, or Colored. Some will even advocate for the rights of others before there own to the very point of putting themself in a very vulnerable situation. For all of those afraid to be honest. It's a great photograph and so awesome that it has been restored for all of us to view. But, please - dont be petty.
BW photo memories
I am a person of color and the one thing I hate about living in the greatest country in the world is the labels and titles that we place on each other. Although I think the title is fine I would've changed it to something else while still giving credit to the originator.
thoughtful station
Oi! Sou administrador de um grupo chamado ☼FLOR-DE-LIS☼(p/ingressar ao JOGO ler regulamento) e nós adoraríamos ter isto adicionado ao grupo!
cqgloomsunday
Lovely
BlacktouchYellow
This is a fantastic photograph, and an amazing historical record, both on the personal and societal levels. Those who are offended by the title have every right to feel, as they do and voice their opinions. But bare in mind that we learn as much about our history from the titles of these photographs as we do from the images they capture. And to change the title would be as wrong as to photoshop the image itself. How else would we be able to grow evolve and be a more caring community if we did not preserve the record of the dark and offensive parts of the our history as a point to compare our current behavior? Remember the saying "Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it." ? If we revise our historic records now so it does not offend, then it won't be long before those who come after us forget or worse never understand why it was offensive in the first place.
733.
Titles are fine...this is a fantastic picture. History is not "PC".
digital kid2007
Your Photo Has Inspired Me!!! You Are Invited To:
Great photo but like others have said, the title diminishes the image.
What about "Wonderful young Man" instead ?
Chasing Obscurity
I didn't know they made slide film in the 1940s... I thought it was produce somtime in the 1950s
Todd Baker
Well they had colour movie film during WWII...so I assume they would have slide film as well.
joewig
LOL. I love it. This wasn't taken in 2003 folks, but in 1943--in apartheid, Jim Crow, segregated America. "Negro" was the term used to describe African Americans. It was even used on birth certificates. It wasn't deemed offensive, it was just an "official name" for colored, Afro, black (and now African American) people. Now we don't use the term. At that time, they did. It is what it is. I love the picture and the attitude of the little boy in it. The title is right on point and shouldn't be changed. Negro is not the "n" word. If it were, then Houston, we'd have a problem.
Alex Arnold Fotografie
awesome shot
mortgagestar1
I recall the term vividly and still widely used in the deep south. Great historical photo! Self indoctrinated apartheid still exist by poverty pimps and the self defeatist attitude of the liberal minded black sub culture.
bonksie61
You are invited to add this image to:
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Please tag your photo "AlmostAnything"
Sig Holm
Great and beautiful photo. Greetings from Iceland.
Lucas Melo Travassos
Beautiful
Unza Unza Time.-
que buena foto porfavorrrrr
LuDongBin
Bellissima!
The Library of Congress
digital kid2007: We received your request to have a Library of Congress photo added to your group: share your best with the world. Please click on the "Invite this photo to..." link below the comment box and we'll accept it.
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bonksie61: We received your request to have a Library of Congress photo added to your group: almost anything. Please click on the "Invite this photo to..." link below the comment box and we'll accept it.
patrícia soransso
lovely colours! awesome dof and expression..
ginormous stomach
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Beauty Secret ( Post 1 - Comment 3 ), and we'd love to have this added to the group! luv it well done
lorraine-f
This Beautiful lmage was viewed in www.flickr.com/groups/beautysecret/ And your Secret deserves a lot more love!!! Please tag your pic "Beauty Secret"
aongarcia
So amazing. One of the most beautiful and most poignant photos I've seen.
Danial Yahya
marvelous
♥ leona ♥
wonderful picture!!! :-) This Beautiful lmage was viewed in www.flickr.com/groups/beautysecret/ And your Secret deserves a lot more love!!! Please tag your pic "Beauty Secret"
Myrwin
It's an incredible shot and a historically important one. I cannot believe the misguided fools who are quibbling about the word, "Negro." We can breathe a sigh of relief they aren't burning books anymore, or witches...
Sator Arepo
Great
lee_yoshida
Very textured and telling.
Lo insignificante ♫
great photo
brave quartz
excellent portrait
siso_sb_46
Hola, soy el administrador de un grupo llamado New dreams y nos encantaría agregar esto al grupo. ************************ I HAVE A DREAM!!
I SAW THIS PICTURE IN NEWDREAMS
visit newdreams
**************************************
SherryH80
He is a cute little guy. I don't think you should worry about the title because the fact that you now have an African-American for a president proves that specifically Americans are generally not racist. Terms come and go and that is ok as long as people keep growing and moving closer and closer to peace in the changes they make.
muddled downtown
Absolutely love the picture. Don't get the fuss about the title. But then again, I'm not American. -- Seen on my Flickr home page. (?)
© Stranger
Nice photo.... don't change history anymore than we do... The name is the name of the photo, nothing more. hmmm.... next well change the naacp ?
hulakan
great
kona49
beautiful beautiful boy. I need more time to read all of the comments. but, beautiful boy, beautiful photograph, glad to have seen it.
gelamaka
incredible and stronge... i love this picture!! namaste!!!
Jaamie.
einfach fantastisch mehr lobbende wörter kann ich leider nicht sagen :)
lauypollo
uhuru !!
Liamfm .
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Teenage kicks, and we'd love to have this added to the group! lovely shot *******
kermittina [petitepeste!]
like the photo but not the tittle!
gTarded
Love the photo. The boy is clearly not Scandinavian so the title fits!
MorenoCinescape
increible que buena :)
brash position
Negro here. The title is fine!! That's what they called black people back in the day. Leave it alone folks.
J.woof
that kid would be a very old man now, and how the world changed ...
Rev J~Boss
J.D. Fielding Photography says: All the people who have left comments about not liking the title should ask yourself one question. If you were in Italy, say on vacation...and a cute lil boy was playing cars on some stairs outside a villa...a scene you just had to photograph! You get home, upload the photo to your computer so you can upload it to Flickr...mmm title.."Aah yes" "Italian Boy Playing Outside Villa" or maybe some simply "Italian Boy". ----------- While the title doesn't bother me, I would like to address your statement here. Using this example, I don't believe anyone would have mind the title of this picture being called "American Boy Looking At The Camera" or siimply "American Boy". I long for the day when applications only asks if you're a U.S. Citizen or not instead of checking African American, White (non-Hispanic), Hispanic, etc...
kelsokraft
Fantastic shot. The title is fine, it is part of the history. The fact is, in the 20th century, that was a title that was used for African Americans. People may not like it, but it is what it is. ...another 'negro' chiming in.
yusuf_alioglu
Beautiful portrait... Nice work...
*La Loba*
Negro isnt a bad word people, stop trying to be sensitive. Its an honest and artistic photo and that was the original title. You people make innocent, none offensive things out to be bad
Larissa Korobova
great work!!
modern tax
I understand that this is the original title of this particular piece of art, it was never meant to offend, so I love it as is!
stale island
Sign of the times i spose not acceptable today :)
cayla.lilly
Love this truly American Pic. Also i would like to comment on the first comment of this post. the title is in reference to the subject as it was in America in 1942 or so. i am not a racist by far, as my fathers people were nearly exterminated by the early 1900's. Any way,as things change people don't seem to follow. as we no longer act in these ways and try to change our attitudes , there are those who dwell on the negative aspects of all things. and that my fellows is the reason we can not move on. don't forget the past, and move on.
The Real D.L.
These photos being made accessible is work enough- to suggest that attention, and time, should be paid to the titles as well is out of line. Be thankful. Enjoy. This collection is such a positive, a treasure, an education. This beautiful image is a commentary on the times, the descriptive language is as well, they belong to each other.
Karin Wyman
Good quality photo. I asked my African/Canadian in-laws about the term 'negro' We looked through historial books and found'black' was used. If this were a white child would he/she be referred to as whitey or vanilla face, depending of what century the photo was done?
Franks Photos!
Excellent photo of this young Man. Fond memories of the series, Little Rascals.
Cristina Bruseghini de Di Maggio
Una fotografia escelente, es un retrato absolutamente genial, saludos y mis felicitaciones.
robust gate
Before I was married I dated a very sweet girl from Africa. Her blood line came out of England. She was white with red hair. She lived in Texas. She was my first African American girlfriend. Later I dated a very beautiful girl from Africa who lived in Mississippi. Her parents moved to Africa from India. She was my second African American girlfriend. Later I dated a black girl from Jackson, MS. She took great offense at being called African American because she is American. African American, according to her, is a racist term used by elitist blacks who are trying to feed white guilt or guilty whites with no sense of themselves. That is why I enjoyed dating her, she wasn’t afraid of honesty or reality.
gTarded
You're quite the player michael.monkey! Can't wait to read about your next girl.
purple respect
I can 't believe all the ridiculous comments because of the title. I would imagine that is the original title people, not some racist comment from the flickr uploader. Its a good picture, get over it okay?
bekachka
I am from Cincinnati, and have so often tried to imagine the faces of people who inhabited the city in the past, from the crucial time of the Underground Railroad onward. This picture is extremely powerful, and I am so glad it has been saved.
vertigelt
I'm not sure the point of adding yet another comment on the title, but personally, I LOVE the title. It is a piece of history. I understand that the currents of history colour the subtext of the word "negro" in a negative way, but the contemporary subtext of the word had no negative connotation. Some folks want to toe the line between preserving history and placating today's overly-sensitive masses by suggesting that "back then, they didn't know any better". But it is not the photographer or his contemporaries that didn't know better: it's WE who don't know any better--the degree to which we've coddled and insulated ourselves against any objection anyone might raise anywhere about anything that is deemed offensive for whatever reason. Let us remember that in arguably the most stirring example of rhetoric for the equality of races in America, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., used the word "negro" fifteen times to describe his own people. Are we to assume that Dr. King was ignorant or didn't know any better? That he was one given to submitting to the whims of the time, even if he knew it was degrading? The term was NOT degrading, but simply descriptive. Its degrading connotation is an after taste of decades of iniquity and struggle. I expect my viewpoint to be lent little credence, uninformed as it is by the necessity of personal experience, but: if I were descended from this spirited, egregiously wronged, but ultimately triumphant lineage, I'd think I'd want to embrace such a term as "negro", if only to invoke the power of continuity, history, solidarity, and oneness: uniting each new victory in an ongoing struggle to the trials from which it was born. I understand the desire to close ugly chapters of our past, and adopting new lexicon is one means of doing that. But I think zealously whitewashing those things which are reminders of past iniquities, when the reminders themselves are innocuous, is in its own way one more form of binding and fragmenting a truly beautiful people whose whole story is incomparably rich and deserving of our entire attention and respect, not this piecemeal selective memory that passes for sensitivity. -- Seen on my Flickr home page. (?)
Chauncy.Primm
wow i never thought there would be this much hoopla over a title. i like the word "negro" to be honest/ it not necessarily meaning "black " in english terms, but all shades of brown. i hate the terms "african american" and "black" because i am neither one of those things.
jonron239
I keep coming back to this - firstly because its a great shot and secondly to reread Joe Wigfall's comment.....
Hoggheff
it cracks me up at how some people react to reality..I guess some people don't know their history..had the title been changed, this would just be another childs portrait. some need to see things for what they are..fantastic post by the way..cheers
Brest 29
My girlfriend says I'm (so) white. White is a colour - I checked on the internet, it knows everything - so I'm coloured. So I'm black. Such a great picture! Someone says it was restored? Like, how? The col..., I mean, the hues? The defintion? It's unbelievably sharp, with beautifully controlled depth of field. Fantastic historical value too.
k_sukari
The title is ab-so-lute-ly perfect! The picture is outstanding and I'm glad it's available for all to view and enjoy. I feel fortunate to have this kind of historical record of a people who are just another part of Americana. That said, I'm a woman and an American who has brown skin. I don't care how others define me because definition of self is more important. I claim American of African descent. Call me "negro", "colored", "black" who cares just don't call me late for dinner. Let's drop all this politically correct BS and just be Americans.
A.F.Crawford
For those who oppose: the photograph has done its job.
ModernMuseum
Totally agree. Outstanding photo and title. The people who disagree with the title are most likely non-black leftists who are seeking attention by supporting an unfounded cause.
rmcarrier1
Haha. I'm a White Leftist and I don't have any qualms with the title.
Claudio Gennari ..."Cogli l'attimo ferma il tempo"
Wanderful portrait compliment!!!!!!!!
Revolution: Still
Well, I have no problem with the title personally. It's probably the original title like someone said above. Either way, it's a wonderful shot. I love older photos like this, and I can't help but be curious about the boy.
parsimonious art
I like this picture so much!!!
overt fold
I like the tag-negro here it is appropriate depicting the boy and his background culture accurately, it is not racially prejudiced, the picture also matches perfectly with the title showing a small negro boy who is proud to be a boy of hs race
fgcp035
Che foto stupenda!! Sei invitato in:
Join us
***Guardami negli occhi** -- Post 1 / Comm 3
Mr. Forbulous
I think the little guy looks like Stymie from the Little Rascals!!! Love his expression.. like "what are you takin MY pic for??" DOF is killer too! WOW... people hung up on politically "correct" bullshit. I can't believe how many responses this pic got and only directed at the title, not the photo itself which is what this site is all about. I believe back then the word "negro" was the upgraded, politically correct version of the other N word that was used in daily lingo.. this is what I was taught to refer to a black guy as. A Negro. Funny how those terms change every 10 minutes due to political correction and we're all supposed to stay on top of it or be damned by society. People gotta just shut up and live and let live. "Why Can't We Be Friends?" - War
inquisitive cloth
really cool shot
J Webb fr252
Great Photo, I do like how you kept the original title instead of changing it. I agree the times have changed, but you can't change history because it may offend someone.
milly09
ahh i love the colours in this picture. very natural !
JUANITTA
esa mirada es muy profunda, la fotografia es increible. saludos
whachoodoin
I agree! We are black now, not negro!
hallowed writer
That's Great!Congratulations! You're Invited In My Group www.flickr.com/groups/photo_expression/ Stefano
seewhy
let's get winston smith to work at the LOC, changing all the titles and captions. because we have always been a compassionate and tolerant country. racism never existed.
@404photo
@404photo
@404photo
ruhel
The photo is a good one, great example of capturing the moment especially the title, Reminds us all of how times have changed. It also seems rather pertinent considering the momentous occasion we are living through.
greasy point
There's is no reason to rewrite the language of history to make ourselves feel better now. I love the photo. The expression and clothes are so serious and adult.
Ken Zirkel
Negro as defined in Wikipedia is actually pretty informative:
Seems obvious this is an appropriate historical context, no? By the way, I find the photo both technically and emotionally extremely compelling. I wonder if this man is still alive, and what his story would be. alfanhuí
A great portrait of a handsome boy! (sorry, I'm blind colour) ;-)
Rafa Mota
Just beautiful...
man33giu
Changing title is as in the novel 1984 where Big Bother changed History every day. You can't change History. That title was written 1943.
ArchedRoof
It looks like a negro boy to me. Why is it offensive? a 'white' boy wouldn't be offensive. To me the word 'negro' is just a reference to skin colour. Big deal.
inquisitive cloth
its just a little boy. end of.
zizwe
what? there are no negros in scandanavia? i wonder if he is still alive.
evelyn_yanson
for me..NEGRO iS NICE COZ...u Cnt SEE in physical ApperanCE To judge pEpOl..
zonked expert
Love this picture.....Love the title even more!!!!
envious party
I so agree with you k_sukari. Lovely photograph of a cute boy.
Phat Nat
Fix the title. What year are we living in again?
Walt Jabsco
Terrible title.......You may be posting using the original archived title but why use it on flickr ? Negro is not the same as White ArchedRoof and you knows it
Michael DaKidd
(From the Wikipedia:) Art is the process or product of deliberately arranging elements in a way that appeals to the sense or emotions. It encompasses a diverse range of human activities, creations, and modes of expression, including music and literature. The meaning of art is explored in a branch of philosophy known as Aesthetics. What makes this portrait Art? DoF, composition, - and look at his expression! Great portrait. Additionally, all the commentary, mostly regarding the use of the word "Negro" in the title, if nothing else, shows the amount of attention this portrait has thus far garnered, and provides a glimpse into the psyche of the commenters - myself included. Judging by the dialogue thus far, that words have power is indisputable. On the other hand, the folly of viewing history through a contemporary lens is, to me, made obvious by many of the comments on this photo. In my life I have at various times in polite American society been referred to as colored, a Negro, Black, Afro-American, African American - and as well by members of my own "race" as well as others, by that almost universally impolite other "N" word. At the time this photo was taken, "Negro" was considered to be a reference symbolizing the height of general public good manners. Despite the current de rigueur term for non-Hispanic Americans of darker-hued skin tones, I much prefer to refer to myself as Black: as it is the only sure hint to my ancestry. Whether my line originated on the African continent - or somewhere between there and Illinois, U.S.A. - or somewhere else, is lost in the murky pages of history; real and fancied. What is important to me is how I live my own life, how I treat others, and how I allow myself to be treated. So much out-of-context sniping and fretting about an antiquated term distracts from the artistic merit of this fine portrait and the glimpse into our history it shares with those who would see... Anyway: Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Art is Art, and we'd love to have this added to the group! Art. Fave.
curry_christopher
"Negro Boy" was the original title of this piece. Stop trying to revise history. Political correctness is getting out of control.
finnigh
So much fuss over the title and so little time wondering what sights he saw during his life or what became of him. What an evocative photo!
fumbling smash
Jam-Master Jay!
babushkina_olga
Perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it was interesting to read coments))))))))))))))
even picture
The colors are surreal; they're so historical that you could cover the title and still know it was a part of history. I'm still thinking about the colors!
zyrcster
This image has been used in the indicommons.org post: Black History across the Commons - Part 2
雨中山羊
漂亮
MsBlueSky
He's so cute! Who the hell cares about the title! Its from the Library of Congress so its probably the photo's original title, plus it shows how far we've come. The colors are also very warm and inviting. Thanks for sharing :)
Surtsey Paris
The title is good. It's necessary! It helps us to remember that the past is not so far. Change the title is erase a past full of error. We must not forget the past. good picture anyway
Brandon S. Warren
NEGRO is the exact same word as BLACK and no one seems to be concerned with saying "BLACK PRESIDENT" ....... thats what i thought. So get over it . *see also Tag Have a nice day to all who refer to the president as a black president, but cant handle this boy being called black. This boy is blacker then the half black president more then likely.
bipolar90
Años 60 all star :)
medical bicycle
wonderful image This is a beautiful catch.
Post 1 and comment on 3 photos posted just before you.
Give your votes here for competition of BEST PHOTOGRAPHER of Feb '09.
parched quiet
This is a GREAT piece of work to have inspired so many reactions in so many of you..Negro Boy, Black Boy,Golden Boy,,,HOW BOUT HUMAN we are all the same. This photo and title EXCITE ME buy the reaction's it has stirred...YEAH to FLICKR and TO who titled and took it a wonderful job..A truly Beautiful Photo.Sorry I gotta say it or I wont be happy..Fuck P.C.....HB human being
GwennieP
Outstanding photo. I'm American born but now live in the UK - from this distance & culture I'm amazed at all the fuss about the title.
Lú_
This image has been highlighted on Indicommons.org as among the Commons' Most Commented. Check out the rest!
LeGreg
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Flickring Lights, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
muslimpride4eva
All blacks...even from Brazil, India, Jamaica...etc....originated from African Slaves....
weissfoto
Now without anyone getting Jittery and hypersensitive about race. There are, according to the World Book Encyclopedia three scientific groupings of man kind based in their facial specifications. The Term Negro. Is from Negroid. Whites are Caucasoid and Asians are Mongoloid. Negro is a shortened form. I take offense to the description of any American being described by their facial specifications. African American is reverse racism as it defines a group..Defining a group is racist. People with features from the Negroid classification may not be from Africa They could be from an Island in the south pacific or Australia. Why don't we call whites Caucas? If you want to describe the photograph correctly you would use the terms used when the image was taken. Negro was, and is acceptable...Scientifically! However does not work in our current culture. But neither does African-American. I am a professional photographer. I have images just like this one in my files. I would have stooped in front of this child and asked him to respond to the camera in a way true to his feeling at the moment of exposure. If I were working in 1944 I would have recorded the image as a Negro Child. If you had to change anything about this photo, Maybe it should be your attitude.
Paloma(*)
Esta foto me recuerda mucho una historia de los Estados Unidos.-
Brandon S. Warren
maybe he told them to name the picture that way. just call it non-white boy from the armpit of america , will that be good,
tacit road
What a cute boy I like the Photo..
productive side
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called soulful group, and we'd love to have this added to the group! people are people not race or color or limitation that why i add this picture
wujcior
love it congrats
ĿåüŘi Ω
muy bonita
exile and the kingdom
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called *my definition of a boombastic jazz style*, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
little linus
che bella...con quel cappello..
LiamCH
This really is a fantastic photograph. Unlike any photographs I see of children today, I find myself really interested in the background of this person; today, you would not see a child wearing overalls like this. Presumably, he had to work in order to support his parents? I wonder what he did? It really tells a story. Absolutely fascinating. Incidentally, all of this uproar over the title is pathetic. It's Spanish for black. It is descriptive. What is the matter with you?!
Roberto41144
Perfectly framed. Great color. The boy (can I call him "Boy"?) reminds me of Stymie from Our Gang Comdeies....
masoud khamis
great shot><
Sebastiano Milardo Ph www.sebastianomilardo.it
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called RITRATTI SENZA TEMPO/TIMELESS PORTRAITS..fastcontest in corso!!!, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
cheerful corn
What crybabies. Really! It's the title that the photo was cataloged under. Give me a break and enjoy the photo!
In Memoriam: budderflyman
Well, there is still the United Negro College Fund. Negro was the prefered term for Blacks through most of the sixties. It was not a derogatory term. I see nothing wrong with this because obviously it was the original title.
Cem Arslan Photography
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Turkey Photographers Association, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
purple respect
Should have been named TOBY
Franks Photos!
It's a wonderful photo of a young man from days gone past........ I'd also think about limiting "notes" to Friends and Family! What goes around, comes around.........
جـبّانيزووه
Amazing Shot .! Cute Boy ^^
Giovanna Santinolli
Paylaşım için Teşekkürler! / Thanks for Sharing! :
http://i42.tinypic.com/qzqbg9.gif" />
" target="_blank" title="http://www.flickr.com/groups/turkeyphotographersassociation/">">http://www.flickr.com/groups/turkeyphotographersassociation/">
Turkey Photographer Association
Still 33
Handsome young man Thanks for sharing.
[ Noktor-Matic ]
well the title adds to the image even though it is racist to an extent the word negro literally means "black" in spanish and most spanish/latin break off languages so yeah it's only considered racist in "white" countries awell, its still a strong image
sharchris
Just love the photo and the title.
tonyj19
I just have to join in on the fun! No one person can speak for an entire race of people, so because an individual says that the title works for them, doesn't exactly make it work for everyone. There are some excellent points made by some of the commenters, although my question is, would there be a title depicting color or race if the child were "white"? With that in mind, I'd prefer to see a title that only said " a boy near Cincinnati, Ohio..." with maybe a description of the times and what the title may have included during that era. Otherwise, you are practicing segregation by separating the child from other children based on his skin color. In closing, amazing photograph! Well done! By no way am I saying that this was your intent. You've certainly created dialogue, and that's a good thing!
Sysy *
Such a great portrait!
nondescript bicycle
Lots of people are complaining about the title, but hey... it could be worse! Really Great Shot.
photonomads
BEAutiful image.
CMoreno Photography
amazing
Andrei'f
beautiful photo ... the title is ok unless you think ill ...
silvia 66
bellissima espressione
tonyj19
Hey, I'm a product of an interacial relationship! My mother was Black and my father was African-American. My grandmother was Colored, and my grandfather was Negro! So as you can see, I'm confused as "Hell"!
DaveNeukirch
i think, the picture is absolutely wonderful. it doesn't matter how it is called and i don't think that this is the right place to discuss the word negro.
B-Page
Nicely said k-sukari.
photoartdr3
Nice photo !!!!!!, stupid comments about the tittle, this is art and photography, it isn,t a politic blog.
maubeuge
The title fits the photograph-- as others have mentioned, it's a product of its time. In any case, the word "Negro" wasn't considered derogatory in its day. While I understand people's comments questioning the need to put a qualifier to designate a person's color, doing so would be counterproductive, in some ways. The "default" in the U.S. is "white" (and I'm speaking as a minority here, so this is an issue that affects me daily), so attempts to not address race at all in some ways cover over the issue-- and so we're left with the "default" of the same majority viewpoints. I specifically found this photograph because I wanted to find photographs that documented African-American life in the mid 20th century. If no "color" label had been added, it would have been lost in the sea of photographs documenting white America—which seem to be the majority of the photographs in the Commons.
rjl0000
Going back with an eraser and removing terms like this from original content is like trying to bury a part of history. It also would change the meaning and significance of the picture. The picture itself has a very deep feeling to it and whoever took it should be proud to have captured such an image.
ATOMIC Hot Links
The title is fine, leave it as is. That was at that period of time. I can't speak for all black people but my mother got into fights with white kids in the 30's and 40s that refered to her as black, because the way they used black was to hurt and demean, the same as "Nigras" and the other dreaded "N" word. To have used the term Black Boy at that time would have been insulting because even the word 'Boy" was used by adlut white men to demean my father and other black men. I am not one of these ultra-sensitive, PC types so the title is kool with me, especially when I can think of all the negative names we have been called thru the years, coon, spook, darkie, monkey, spear-chucker, jungle bunny, boy, son, n_ _ _ _ _ , blackie, nigras,tar baby, liver lips, video.aol.com/video-detail/saturday-night-live-saturday-n...
zizwe
lol HurricanHelmet.......i think the problem that so many of us have with the title "Negro Boy.." is that "Negro" is not a name we people of African descent have given ourselves. Self determination is fundamental to nationality. All people seek some degree of nationhood, and self determination is integral to this primitive, and intrinsically human concept.
grytlappar
Wow, beautiful image.
Dez Newcomb Photography
This is a great photo. Who cares if you are politically correct or not. Some people don't realize that older people were raised calling people of color different things. My Pap-Paw, who was nearly 90, called them the Horrid "N" word. I would have NEVER corrected him. I may not have liked it, but I cannot re-raise someone 90 years old to name something they have called one thing their entire life something different. It isn't my place. I know I am not black, african american, or whatever... But I don't see why everyone has to get bent out of shape over the name of a photo. I am a white girl, I am not gonna get ticked if you call me a Wasp or a Cracker or a B***H. It's just a way to describe someone. If that's the word the artist wanted to use then so be it. I am soooo tired of political correctness! GREAT PHOTO, GREAT CAPTURE! Beautiful child!
tonyj19
Limejuno, I am not attempting to be disrespectful! I think I understand your point, but I have to disagree. If the group you were designated to, was referred to as the "Bitches", and this is the box you had to check on forms...I'm not sure that you'd have the same opinion.Many people are raised doing or saying certain things, but regardless of age, it may not be acceptable, and sometimes we have to speak out and do the right thing, even if it's not acceptable. In today's society, if your Pap-Paw referred to my child in those terms, would that be okay? Overall, I'm not really hearing many get "bent out of shape" over the name of the photo. What I hear is people expressing their respective thoughts on the issue. In fact, the bent out of shape seems to come more from a defensive tone. Dialogue is a good thing, and it's awesome that a simple photo can illicit so much conversation! Believe it or not, but there is a racial divide in this world, and it's okay to talk about it in a positive way.
«сοzмι★»
Hermosooo
der_Corse
What a cute and lovely boy here! Absolutely fantastic portrait. Perfect!! tag is "per-sona"
handy hospital
Love this photo...it's a glimpse into another time. Please do not change the title - if we start 'changing' things that are tiny, yet important records of history and 'that point' in time - aren't we 'changing' history to suit today's diluted needs. It's perfect just the way it is. (and what K_Sukari says!!! ;)
Waqas Sadiq
bluerosellared
why are there so many people focused about the title!!?? look at the photo for what it is, a boy wears his hat well........love it!!
Carolina.Linares
negro boy? why u use colors to call him-
ozio-bao
the title io think it's original and comunicate a lot of things about the period in witch the photo was taken and about thee american history! this photo is a document but the title too... (in a modern shot i will not like a similar title obviously)
sunwany
absolutl good good!
Ideaholic
Yet another comment about the title: When I was a boy in the Sixties, the correct thing to call African-Americans was "Negro." To us it brought forth images of Martin Luther King and the struggle for civil rights. It brought forth visions of courageous young men and women sitting with dignity at a lunch counter in the South, waiting to be served and ignoring the terrible hatred being thrown at them by the racist population. In my mind it described somebody that was very admirable. I think the word belongs in the title because in his eyes you can see some of the sorrow, and yet also the dignity and strength that led his people through the terrible persecution of Jim Crow, through the civil rights struggle and all the way to President Obama. Maybe this boy sat at a lunch counter or braved the dogs and fire hoses in Alabama as a young man, and voted for Obama as a senior citizen.
shay c
thats soo cool...
sturaart
Its a "telling" picture and the boy is very cute,I wonder what his name is, and where he is today? Not many pictures make me wonder about things like that..
Armagan Orki
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Günün En İyisi - The Best of Day (Post 1, Award min 5), and we'd love to have this added to the group! Hi, let's share this great photo with Günün En İyisi - The Best of Day (Post 1 - Comment 5) www.flickr.com/groups/iyibest/
Günün En İyisi - The Best of Day
Please tag your photo: GününEnİyisi, TheBestOfDay
Kimberly330
I have to say, I don't think this picture is one of greatness. It looks like a little boy who was posing for a picture. Nothing fabulous, nothing special, nothing to be stressing about. Just a picture.
deathblossoms
namaste
furtive bushes
Jesus Christ Almighty ,,,, WORDS DO NOT HURT!!!!! ACTIONS DO!!!!!! Nice Photo by the way .. and keep the title ..............it suits it . He kinda looks like Stimey from the little rascals don't ya think???
Kimberly330
Markpuertolas: I don't know about you, but I know to everyone else in the world, words defintely hurt. Emotional hurt may be different than physical hurt, but nonetheless, it's HURT.
furtive bushes
I stand corrected... yes you are right words can hurt,,, Children ! If a person has any semblance of intelligence they cant do a thing. to you Remember that old saying" sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never harm me" it works !!!! anyway !! just my opinion I respect yours as well... Be well Mark
Rachel :-)
despite the diversity of comments about this picture,.. I like it, the thought behind it, and for the boy to pose the way he did,.. i dont think the title as such is derogative,... we are all humans and have the same human functions,.. the heart is what keeps us all alive, no matter what colour our skin might be, or what we all might have been called in the past or present, ... respect , empathy, understanding, love and genuiness is what i hope keeps us all going,.... :-)
bewildered payment
Bad, bad, bad name for the photo. Out of order, out of context. Have you sown the boys family this?
bewildered payment
The title is original........ it was not OK in the 50s unless you was a southen backword redneck. and it is so not ok now. if you offend 1 person you have got it wrong, but looking at your emails it is not just me. It is a great image but destroyed by the title
lhillhutcherson
Okay, here is a comment by a biracial woman ("black and white) on the conversation here about the picture being called "Negro Boy"--- YES, for those who are trying to explain to those that don't get it, NEGRO was the term used back then. It was acceptable and what most blacks referred to themselves as. If you ever get a chance, go to your Public Library and look at old copies of Ebony Magazine or Jet Magazine from that era and even later. I have a 1958 copy (our biracial family was illustrated and written about, due to my father having the" first" Negro-owned Vending Machine business in Detroit. So, for those who were born much later, and are not aware, do not be offended by that name- I thank God that your comments show that you do have empathy for your fellow man/woman. There was a time when the comments would have been far different...
radioadman
Nice photo.
Seven Pillars Lord Abbaddon
one would expect it to be the 1930s with shots like this
Cynthia E. Wood
what on earth possesses y'all to put your little NOTES ALL OVER this photo...?
isa13
This is a beautiful photo of a handsome little boy. I am sorry though that there are so many notes over his face... For all those who may think that the title of this image is incorrect, please read the following link about "La Négritude", from "nègre" in French. Nègre is negro in French. It used to be very disrespectful indeed. The Movement La Négritude changed all this. french.about.com/library/bl-negritude.htm
Javier Del Pozo
Negro is an spanish word wich means Black. And yes in the 1940´s USA was a racist country.
Gullz
Nice shot
FromDBackwoods
Beautiful Portrait . Gorgeous
. Alison .
(Y)
Andrea Taka
tiene mucha onda el niño!
whole shock
mto linda
artist-connected
Wow! so simple yet so powerful. AC
gabby offer
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Nation Of Domination. (We Rule The Universe), and we'd love to have this added to the group!
Kenneth B
People, get over the name. UNCF stands for United Negro College Fund and that still exists. I can't figure out why people find the word so offensive if it's still being used my UNCF. I'm so sick of political correctness. -- Seen on my Flickr home page. (?)
Allen Rendell
picture is meh
Dave Nimitz
looks like stymie from our gang great shot but the title has to go its really not needed to point out his race its rude and ignorent to say that word the picture speaks for itself
LiamCH
It's also ignorant to use such appalling spelling. Retard.
hookstrapped
I assume the title comes from 1942 or 1943, in which case there is nothing wrong with it. Great pic.
✿LEA✿
Fantastic portrait !!!
annamunter
I don't like the title either. It's not necessary. But I do love the picture a lot!
Dixon Steele
The photo is sourced from the LOC so the title is likely from the original accession record. The cataloger used LOC rules and standards in effect at the time. Speaking to Ideaholic's comment. Negro was the accepted term much as Caucasian was, and still is, the accepted label for certain peoples with light skin. And speaking to others' comments. If you get hung up on the word in the title you're missing the image, which is both poignant and powerful.
Denise Barnfather
great picture
Gvantsa27
little man! :)
KMGuy
This is an amazing photo. The title and the photographer are products of their time. As Kelsokraft said, "It is a part of history". @k sukari- From one American to another, Well said, I couldn't agree more, or have said it better.
gregoreverb
The title is fine as it stands, for chrissakes! Historical revisionism sucks. (BTW, does anyone else think this kid looks like Stymie from the Little Rascals?)
Skeeter Pop
yeah fa real black negro african american they are all just synonyms for the same thing. its not offensive. im a halfy and i personally dont think it really is offensive unless someone says it with malice but its just a title of a picture so...
Mo Beale
LOL It takes so little to offend some people. So sad......
Franks Photos!
And a part of growing up that I can still remember..........
J.McPherson
dude thats an awesome photo
thenewfoundlandexperiment
Wow, this is pretty amazing. Powerful image!
caring sun
still with the title.................
Sin mas
Impresionante
CKayD
lovely. absolutely lovely
habibi77
the pic is amazing .I did not like the title
Jonathan Tremblay,
This picture is really impressive. The composition and the exposure are really great. This remind me the texture of a summitar lens... hmm... For the title, it's fun to see all the mess just for one word. Take a look at the picture; this boy has receive an absolute tribute by one of the great american photographers. The word "negro" would only be an insult if it was use that way... So why arguing...? Anyway, I have seen an alternate title for this picture : African American boy.
filosofie concettuali
bellissima
-阿三-
I love it
James Green (jag)
Although the title may be seen as racist in todays society, it must be understood that in the era that the photograph was taken it was the 'norm' to use words such as this. I think that the original title adds to the impact of the image, as it helps to set the scene and feel of the moment in time that it has captured. Great picture!
ImKevinKim
The photo is great, but i don't like the title.
Velena▲Rain
..... *
Amsterdamned!
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called The Flickr Portrait Gallery, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
Brujerías
Me encanta
locomonkey84
its just a title, Im french and Spanish negro is used to describe black people. Its not a derogatory term plus it gives the picture some historical context.
XPetedarknessX
Fantastic Photograph! I don't think there is a problem with the title, It's a part of history, and back then it was not always said in a derogatory manner.
blindone
Outstanding photo. Title and the overall tone of the photograph is a true statement of the period.
[ Noktor-Matic ]
god people are still complaining about the word "negro" it literally means black in spanish its only offensive in "white" countries. god GET OVER IT. its not the other N word which is more derogatory
Dimitryus
sweet
wintersoul1
an old soul, and a beautiful heart....
flee the cities
all of you stop being so insufferable
wooden relation
that beautiful picture loved the boy and the color you put in the picture you are to be congratulated
jose Gonzalvo
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called *A Flor de Piel* *Feelings flush with skin* Post 1 Award 2, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
jose Gonzalvo
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Rostros y Caras - Faces, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
La griega de AndaluCái
Esta foto fue vista en "A flor de piel" " target="_blank" title="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sentir/pool/">">http://www.flickr.com/groups/sentir/pool/">
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2318/2935143392_5b37c20a76_t.jpg" />
Felicitaciones
Sube1 – Comenta 2
Thibaut Lafaye
tres jolie portrait de vie Esta foto fue vista en "A flor de piel" " target="_blank" title="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sentir/pool/">">http://www.flickr.com/groups/sentir/pool/">
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2318/2935143392_5b37c20a76_t.jpg" />
Felicitaciones
Sube1 – Comenta 2
Fergal Clohessy
a fine photo.. absolutely ruined by sad peoples notes
helena.vanova
Esta foto fue vista en "A flor de piel" " target="_blank" title="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sentir/pool/">">http://www.flickr.com/groups/sentir/pool/">
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2318/2935143392_5b37c20a76_t.jpg" />
Felicitaciones
Sube1 – Comenta 2
kingdomservantdani
My name is Dani Atkins and I am one of 4 surviving children of Ronald Edward Atkins and Clancyna Marie Atkins. On January 26, 2008 my father was killed in a tragic car accident that took place only 2 minutes away from my home. My parents had been married for 30 years at the time of the accident without separation. As I have been assisting my mother with putting together various lawsuits and claims against several different persons, insurance companies, and even the Los Angeles Police Department regarding several acts of negligence and dishonor surrounding my fathers death, I have come across a disturbing piece of information that I, being a 24 year old African American person am appauled. My father having been born on April 9, 1955, has a birth certificate that identifies his color and race as being "NEGRO." My grandmother, Eloise Marie Harrison having been born on April 4, 1933 has a birth certificate that identifies her color and race as being "NEGRO". My mother, who is still alive, Clancyna Marie Atkins born on September 4, 1956 has a birth certificate that identifies her color and race as being "NEGRO" as well. And I am quite sure there are thousands if not milliions of other African American people dead or alive who have been identified on paper at birth as being "NEGRO" I am absolutely disgusted that the United States of America even in 2009 have not made an attempt to make right this defamation of character in administering all new birth certificates to those who have died as well as those still living to identify these HUMAN PEOPLE with dignity and respect. I am passionately committed to make my fathers name wholly reflect the honorable father, husband, and man that he was and the fact that his life was not even given an opportunity to start before he was branded on United States of America paper as being a "NEGRO" is a disgrace and a shame on America. PLEASE SUPPORT THIS MESSAGE TO THE WHITE HOUSE BY SIGNING MY ONLINE PETITION at: www.gopetition.com/online/29117.html If you have any questions e- mail me at: [email protected] Thank You, Dani
flee the cities
lol
flee the cities
Who freaking cares
a was here
Beautiful boy.
WIDEHAUS
Don't be ridiculous my friends..the title is correct and the photo is fantastic...."You have no reason to be ashamed of your ancestors. See to it that they have no reason to be ashamed of you!"
WIDEHAUS
kingdomservantdani ????? lol
Sarah Shiri
absolutely great ...wonderful shot indeed
Király Miklós - Keralka
best photo!
thedickieburd
beautiful
bcooke_
LOL x SMH. Negro
Lunaticaenlaluna71
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnRTDI-1BXM
___Kelly___
:D
impossible magic
amazing!
NEON CTA-IEN SOLID..!!!
bless...!!!!!
Photos by Keven
LOL You cant sugar coat history and make it something it is not. Back then the word Negro was a very common name used for people of color. There was no hate behind this title so why do you get all bent out about it. When hate is used with a word then it is wrong and you also give words power. I love the photo and Go with that title.
Afnan Aldarwish
nice one
Stankyousmellymuch
he reminds me of the little african american from the original little rascals
Faybalina
i love this photo and title
CHASSEURDINSOLITE57
Beautiful pic ! I love it !
Rubén Tarín
gran retrato
Nino H
awesome shot
karma choir boy
Will all the White/Pink people please delete their comments here. I bet there wouldn't be many left. Honest to God. Don't you people have anything else to do?
striped dog
ottimo lavoro complimenti
Walt Jabsco
Still 33
Our skin is the gift wrap... (yes it can represent race) however the gift is inside!
jenny crystal ball
so incredibly beautiful. i'm transfixed by the DOF and his beautiful eyes. if you believe (as so many do) that the title "diminishes the shot," scroll down a bit to hide the title from your delicate sensibilities! or maybe, instead, see the shot for what it is... in context... and step outside your dangerously narrow view of history.
Chinawski
You're awesome k-sukari, nevertheless political correctness has most people living a tragic-comedy.
Celticfield Two
Fantastic shot!!!!
pink-submarine
good picture but horrible name rasicim is for noobz!
lkjhuytr
He got his fashion sense from Stymie.
binghum
I love this photo and I believe it was taken on kodachrome film. I am pretty sure I saw this photo on a web page celebrating kodachrome images. The PC political correct group of people seems to be people who got brainwashed in a demographic age group of around 30 years old or younger. Whatever happened to freedom of expression?
binghum
Here is the link talking about Kodachrome and a tribute to this wonderful film because this is the last year for manufacturing it. The first photo on this Time link is of this negro black boy. If this photographer was in anyway PC he/she would probably be too afraid to take this photo incase he/she might be reprimanded by PC wankers. I am glad that this photographer just did what he/she did and just took the photo so we can enjoy and celebrate a bit of Americana. www.time.com/time/photoessays/2009/fsa_color_multimedia/
Walt Jabsco
binghum
Walt Jabsco, I should of added if the photographer knew about PC sensitive people in the future to words like the title "Negro" That`s how. "If this photographer was in anyway PC he/she would probably been too afraid to take this photo with the title Negro incase he/she might be reprimanded by PC wanker"
Walt Jabsco
grytlappar
Breath people... It states clearly: "Title from FSA or OWI agency caption". I.e, that was the original title. Written in the language of its day, the early 1940's, the title is part of the historical record.
binghum
I repeat Walt Jabsco, If this photographer knew that the the title "Negro" wouldn`t be acceptable in the future generations. This photographer probably wouldn`t of taken this photo if he/she was PC sensitive. Walt Jabsco said "Would you argue that it is acceptable for a non black person to go around calling black people 'Negroes' in 2009 ???" Read what some of the blacks in here say in this posting. They even say Negro is perfectable acceptable. Fortunately I am free to say what I wish without the thought control police arresting me. I suppose people like you Walt would try to put limitations on what other people can say by trying to state what is acceptable by your standards or rather lack of. Atleast I have nothing to hide and I have a real photo of myself when I speak in here. I`d be glad to try to understand your view on PC Walt maybe I can learn something from this discussion that you would like to call an argument because you don`t see what I am saying. Thanks Grytlappar for reminding Walt what has been said in here many times. It seems Walt is just being a Stickler in here. Please reread the first paragraph and if you did in my earlier post you might of better understood what I said. Better yet read the whole entire thread for this photo and not just my post so you can further latch onto others in here. I doubt very much that Walt even seriously read the entirety of these postings otherwise he would of realized that even Negros accept this word. True I did accidently omit the word Negro in my earlier post but I did correct it later. One last thing if I was white you`d call me a racist and because I am of another color you call me ignorant. This is even worse than the pot calling the kettle black oops.. negro. Do yourself and me a favor Walt just shut your trap or read very carefully what everyone else has said in this very interesting post before you latch onto some other poor soul with your self righteous PC BS in the future. Just enjoy what this wonderful photo is all about as I stated earlier.
Walt Jabsco
I'd still call you a racsist if you were a racist. Racism isn't just white on black. Where have I called you either ignorant or racist ? Let me get this straight because I don't think you've understood what I've typed. Question : Are you saying it's acceptable for a non black person to call a black person a Negro in 2009 ?
binghum
"Freedom of Expression ? Do we allow freedom of expression to those that advocate hate ? Don't be bloody ridiculous....." I take that as racism "You seem to have rather a confused view on Political Correctness which is quite common for those that don't understand it. " I take that as ignorance Question :" Are you saying it's acceptable for a non black person to call a black person a Negro in 2009 ? " Hey if a black person says the word negro is acceptable in the earlier postings. It seems you don`t want to read what others in here have said and you keep grasping at the same issues. You don`t seem to get this point and it`s becoming a broken record.
Walt Jabsco
I'll tell you what......You walk through any predominately black neighbourhood either in the UK or US calling black folk 'negro' and we'll see how long you last............Go on try it, I dare you......
binghum
Hey I am from the states done it....... I guess that is it for now and just kindly do me that favor Walt from about 5 posts above that I had asked. Cheers mate.
the_tahoe_guy
Kind'a looks like Buckwheat from the Little Rascals.
Massimo Piana
is little Robert Johnson
prdsra1
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called as beautiful as you want, and we'd love to have this added to the group! Wonderful Compliments, I like it; Please add this photo to
"as beautiful as you want" group
Ken Zirkel
@rod_kenney: Of course not. But that's not the word used here.
acidic credit
People need to get over the title who cares it is a beautiful photo
Nutrius
there's nothing offensive about negro. United Negro College Fund. So yeah, chill out people.
العقوري [ Libya Photographer ]
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Portraits Of All Countries / No Nude Photos, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
91mouse
I like it =))
ales ales
wonderful shot!
reese46
i love it ;)
Ghida Alzahrani
what a great photo it is faved ^^
Victoria Berglin
beautiful eyes.. just not like the title.
tasteful pets
nice
JamieFantastic
i think the title shows us alot about the time this photo was taken, anyone who thinks its somehow offensive clearly has got their morals mixed up. peopls used to be really openly raciest that is what is was like back then, get over it. we shouldnt start changing the titles of photos because they might offend.
glauco's
preziosa e tenera ottima ripresa
françois26
Fantástica!!!!
taraluci
great image!
barrykhan
Great shot.. Love it..
Billy McHugh
Using the term "negro" is not only appropriate, but more importantly accurate. When the photo was taken, the word "negro" would have been used by both the photographer and the boy himself. It is only offensive if used in the wrong context. I think it is safe to say, this usage is about accuracy and correctness, not racism and ignorance.
smokershighlife
i'm sitting here listening to b.b. king and stumble across this photo and the discussion. you all should calm down. this photo is as great as the title is. i don't see any racism in this. just a thoughtful young negro boy. how often do you see such a look on a young kid. old times...
QuarterCrawler
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Show ur Snaps, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
iamanole
What is really wrong with the word "negro"? Why is it such an offensive word to some? Does the term African American make negroes feel important. If I had dark skin and was not a "caucasion", I would not mind negro. Being a caucasion does not make me feel more important, certainly not smarter. Actually, if we are in this country, we are all Americans. Enough of this categorizing people by our ancestors! We all came from other countries! I'm not them. I'm an American whereever my people came from.
Ken Zirkel
"The Explainer" in Slate explains how the word "Negro" originated, and how it became socially unacceptable, at least for younger Americans. www.slate.com/id/2241120/
shaggy copper
this is great! it's the most perfect.... the looks, composition everything!
Dagaz☮Analú
Handsome boy and perfect kodachrome! And in my country we use T-shirts with 100% NEGRO (Just like 100%Balck). :) -- Seen on my Flickr home page. (?)
schrislloyd
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Being themselves, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
FlickSoul
exactly like mos def in the movie...cute
Sweetlemon♥{QueenOfSep}
5aysa al9orh klsh mb 7lwa
olivez31
he's so cute! i love finding great shots like this from such a long time ago
blackxthink
nice picture <3 And the title is ok . i hate white people who cry about a word that relate to black people ..
Erick Chade
Awesome hat! :)
Nikcanon
WHATEVER!! It is a great shot!! This Native American thinks it rocks!! You can call me redskin if ya wanna, I dont care. Negro means black, not an insult or put down. He is a black boy, cute as he can be, so what?
karen H. nickname.{ pooh}
title needs to go photo nice.
auspicious sponge
The title shows the ways of cultural and society norms of the time...I think its perfect...I would be disturbed if this photo was of present day and someone names it as so amybe. ;)))
ferrarigville
Amazing!
closed feeling
Innocent, sweet.
WilD CaT >''<
great capture !
aphotoshooter
the look on the boys is mesmerizing... I don't know why the title was noticed more than the boy... lovely shot too...amazing capture..! keep shooting folks.., cheers..!!!
#bbeeaa
he's suuuuch a cute boy :) lol love this! <3
Ken Zirkel
You might be interested to know that "Negro" is a category on the 2010 US Census.
__DReaMeR__
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Elena Fedeli
If the intention was that one of maintaning the original title, you should either put quot marks to "negro boy" this is the right convention.
ritaknight1999
I have gone through the comments and only two people saw the striking resemblance to Stymie from Our Gang. Here is a flickr photo of Stymie. www.flickr.com/photos/tom-margie/2085068634/ If you are of my age, late 50's, you probably saw the Little Rascals on US television in the 1960's. Most of you younger people or people from other countries don't know these film shorts. Read about them here: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Our_Gang It is a fantastic photograph particularly for the color in its time. I hope more people see the resemblance.
kingstid
Why are you people so afraid of history. Back in the day and still today he was and is a Negro boy. Shees. You racist people need to get a life and learn history and keep the history to learn by it.. If he aint a negro boy, what is he then a white boy, How about colored boy? Would that suit your sensitive eyeballs and ears?? When will you let up??? Good photo slide.. glad you kept the integrity
Brian Bollig
denzel washington?!
Photomitch
Great photo, I love seeing old colour slides from years ago...
Traveller2012
nice picuture except the title I just wonder how many perople would pay close attention to this picture if no the word "Negro" in the title.
keviG Tatios
Bravo
Politisaurio
Why to refer to race in the title? I've never seen that kind of emphasis when person is "white", "red" o "yellow"... Think it's unnecesary. Love photo. It captures the feeling. Kind regards.
shiny title
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Cute Kids Group, and we'd love to have this added to the group!
shiny title
So Cute !!! Seen in:
Cute Kids Group
Post 1 Award 1
Mexycan
LOVE it!
Katiuce Rodrigues
Perfeita!
Rafael Camayo
ME GUSTA EL TITULO... Y LA FOTO ES SUPREMA.. Negro boy. es un buen titulo hispano-anglosajon. Better than Black boy or Nigger boy. Pienso que no ofende a nadie. ya que a las personas les gustan que las llames por lo que son sin utilizar eufemismos. ESPECTACULAR.¡¡¡¡
XIAOHΣI
This boy looks so lovely!! :)
Gabriel Duarte
if the child were white, nobody will put in the title "Negro boy near Cincinnati, Ohio"
Walt Jabsco
Gabriel Duarte
white boy* HAHA sorry =(
Heart of Áfrika Designs
Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Afrikan Portraits (Photographic, Fine Art, Tribal & Scenic), and we'd love to have this added to the group!
Ä7b ßjẻd Mă Al3aß ♥ ăl-nŏOŏno
ηĩČё ώắŁŁắ Яăώ3ā ŋĩČё śђσỔστ ẅỆľľ ĎōŋĚ Қєєρ Ỉţ Ũp ƒί ắĻ3LąLi ĐσỔσм Čόммέŋτ мě ĩŋ ήỆẅ ω ψśŁαмŎőŎή =) www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected]/4704298411/
incredible waves
amazing photo
Ger.o
Awesome! [ via giovanni.basso's favorites on flickriver --Ger.o ]
corrinelove
In this photo you can tell that the little boy is tired of being treated different by the look in his eyes....very good by the way ;)
H. K..
This is a Brilliant~Eye-Jewel! Seen on my Flickr home page. (?)
myKnightPhoto
This is an amazing photograph, well taken. No shadows under the hat, with a nice soft shadow across the face giving it depth. DOF is very good, and composition perfect. The photographer who took this was either lucky or a master! I'd like to think - master photographer, referring to someone who has studied and mastered the art of capturing light, and back then film. I wonder what camera was used. Anyway, this is a treasure from the past.
little field
I agree with "Against the Tide" Historical contexts cannot be lost... this young boy, was young at the time the photo was taken, and he is negro - which means black in Spanish.
Rusty151
Get over the racists crap... anytime someone mentions race ... bang YOUR A RACIST.... Damn grow up ...will ya... what the hell you afraid of....
Walt Jabsco
Rusty151
There is a real good reason you are on that island....
caring sun
nice to see my friend today~~~~`
thekidfromdenver
This is an amazing photo. Don't get all up tight about the title. It's just a word used to describe the subject matter. If this photo were taken today it would be different. But it was taken in the 1940's and that was the word used. HISTORICAL PHOTO!
riccardo..alessio
very nice!!
Moldovanu Mihai
Racism
Scott Sheridan
http://www.flickr.com/photos/more_pi-dah Excellent point.
GonçaloSilvestre
Truly fantastic! All this commotion about a word makes me sick...
firstcliq
Some pictures just have that certain something that makes them pop. It is the blur background! It really brings the image forward. Great job on this! Cincinnati Web Design
grant1 2
I agree that the title of the photo should be left alone. It's the way people looked at us then. As a Black child growing up in the 50's and 60's, I didn't like the word Negro and couldn't figure out why. As I grew older I figured it out. I see myself as a Black American. They tell me that my ancestors are in Africa. Historically the people left in Africa are the ones who's ancestors made my fore bearers slaves to begin with. So African American doesn't do it for me.
Scott Sheridan
There is a good chance this little boy is now a 70+ year old man still living in Ohio. I wonder what his thoughts are on the photo and the title. I wonder if he would be surprised the photo still exists and that it stirs controversy so many years later. When I look at it, I don't see so much a race issue. I think about the the error and the 400,000 American military men who have died or will be dead in the next three years from when this shot was taken. Or the 13 million people who will die in Nazi concentration camps before May 1945 arrives. My guess is this little boy was also more concerned with the fact that the most terrible war the world has ever seen was taking place around him. He probably saw the Western Union man delivering death notices to the families around him, maybe even to his own home. WWII was a part of every Americans life at the time.
prdsra
Compliments, I like it; Please add this photo to
"as beautiful as you want" group
magnificent memory
Piercing eyes, effective light, excellent portrait.
Randy's Dailies
Zowie! That's sure one keen photograph.
Carol Browne
Incredible. I never would have guessed that photo was taken in the 40's. It looks very modern to me somehow.
Sarah'sSoul
Hey, I'm Negro/Colored/Black.....the name on the photo is ok with me. It's part of history, we can't go changing history, now can we?
bewildered payment
The photograph was posted last year and if it is a slide or photo has been re named by the person posting as this discription. the photo so is not acseptable named as a print in 2011 in this context as this discription we would not re discribe racest photos of juwish peopel taken by nazies and discribed re vamped by like minded peopel great photo bad context
bewildered payment
i love the photo but the discription is upsetting and not right
Dan Stiver
Before the civil rights movement, the word "Negro" was simply a common term without very pejorative connotations. I wonder if this kid might be still alive somewhere in my hometown, obviously he'd be much older.
Walt Jabsco
http://www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected] Ok and what's your point, before the civil rights movement it was ok to call black folk by derogative names, it was ok to lynch black folk, seperatism was ok ?? you seem to be defending the use of the word by stating it was before the civil rights movement but surely the civil rights movement changed things for the better consigning racism to the dustbin ???
s9txe
i like the title, i think the word "negro" sounds good. of course it has some historical "sticked meanings", but i never use that way. funny when the political correctness make the people subconscious racist. i'm not afraid say the word "negro" becase i don't use the contra productive way of political "correctness". being a negro is a good thing, not a shame, and i don't give a f*ck the politicians "teaching". the word is just a shell, the individual filling up with subject matter. if you are racist (directly or subconscious) you filled up with bad meanings. anyway: how cool as he wearing that hat! :)
Ude Okoye.
Its not a great pic. It good a little black in dungarees and a bowler of course its cute. But the titles draws attention. And thats why it has so many comments, nothing to do with the talent of taken a picture.
In Memoriam: budderflyman
Uh, how many color images of black children from 1942 have you seen that were this sharp and clean? It's possibly the best color portrait of a child I have seen from this period. I think it is definitely a wonderful piece of the Library of Congress collection.
92Sasquatch
trolllll!!!!!
In Memoriam: budderflyman
@92Sasquatch, are you calling me a troll? If so, WHY? I am expressing my opinion that this is one of the best color photos I have ever seen of a black child from the early 1940s. I have viewed hundreds of thousands of photographs from the 1940s. This is an excellent photo. Also, there is nothing wrong with the title because it was given this title in 1942 when black people in America were called Negroes. In fact, they were called Negroes routinely until the late sixties when they expressed the desire to be called Blacks. Negro means Black in several different languages. Become informed.
In Memoriam: budderflyman
http://www.flickr.com/photos/elenafedeli Obviously it is the original title from 1942
Martin Mounzer Photography
Love the outfit.. Wish I lived back then. Miss film. Brilliant photo.
aongarcia
Martinus, why do you wish you lived back then? I don't think it'd be an easy life in any way.
skhht12
no change no see
grindlev
Amazing!
retroflow44
The older I get, the more I realize that it's mostly "whites" who take the most offence at the "racist" terms that they historically created. When I worked with a company that was largely black, I asked them which terms they were offended by. None objected to being called 'black'. It's a pretty neutral term, heavily dependant on a supportive context to make it racist. Some of the older blacks still used 'colored', but it has fallen out of common useage mainly because it's antiquated -- old fashioned-like. It's usually construed as racist only in the overall context of segregation. Some were less keen on 'negro', but still used it occasionally. The problem they had was that, culturally, it has taken on a similar (but less intense) meaning as 'Uncle Tom'. African-American is acceptable, but it's an awkward term that has its own implications of being racist without seeming racist. "You're American but you're also AFRICAN-American". As if to remind everyone that they're in a special class; African first and American by convenience or grace. And despite what the media and it's lauded Rap stars would have people believe, I can't think of any of the blacks I worked with who did not despise the use of 'n-----'. That one, hands down, is taken as an insult. Even when used among themselves, it's insulting. Albeit, arguably less than insulting than when a non-black uses it.
In Memoriam: budderflyman
www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected]/ The problem is that uninformed younger people equate "Negro" with the "n word." For many, many years, people of African descent used the term Negro to refer to themselves, and, in fact, a few older ones still do today. The 2010 U.S. census included a category "Negro" for the very reason some people still use this term to identify themselves. The term almost certainly started in the early 18th century when Spanish and Portuguese traders referred to Africans as being negro (which means black in both Spanish and Portuguese). I do not believe the term as originally used was meant to degrade people of African origin. Where it becomes "racist" was when slave owners and traders in the Southern U.S. assimilated the word to "nigra". This and the "N Word" became synonymous with the black slave. Although the blacks in the South were freed by Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, they never were truly "freed" from the prejudice and injustice they received mostly in the South. So, derogatory terms used by some Southerners for them continue to this day to be considered offensive. However, the terms "Negro" and "Colored" were never really considered by most African Americans to be offensive until the late 1960's. IMHO, the "N Word" is offensive because it is forever linked to the image of the slave, the subservient being under the White man. If black people want to use the word to refer to one another, that is up to them. I wish it would go away, but it won't. And I don't think we should ever forget that it was not that many years ago that blacks were routinely lynched for the only "crime" of being born with dark skin. We should never forget that in the 1920's, there were still millions of members of the KKK who viewed blacks as subhuman. Even today, we have people such as Ted Nugent referring to our President as being subhuman. It's sad and it is sick. But, there is absolutely nothing wrong with the use of Negro in the title of this photo since it was titled in 1942.
level coach
Please would you consider joining and adding your excellent work to the group *PEOPLE ~ we love people! www.flickr.com/groups/colourfulmoments/ Many thanks :-) Anne (admin)
grytlappar
It's beyond me, the commenters who *do not understand* that the original caption is part of the HISTORICAL VALUE of this image—besides it being an incredibly wonderful portrait of this boy. ONE DOESN'T CHANGE AN ORIGINAL CAPTION, as this is part of history. Besides, does it look like the photographer who took this image was racist? If the photographer had projected that, an antagonistic attitude, he would not have gotten this back—this openness, this connection—from his subject, believe me. I say this as a photographer. People need to take a breath, ffs, and realize/educate themselves to the fact that the term 'negro boy' was not derogatory back then. (Are we going to condemn anyone who used that term back then? Which is what one said?) The image—including the caption—is a historical document, so UNWAD your panties people who object to the caption as being "upsetting and not right". You understand nothing about history. Or art. If the Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibited this image, would they CHANGE the original caption? Please, get a grip.