Discusses use of the term "African-American" in the context of relationships among country of origin, identification with that country, and the American experience. Finds no association between name identification and current Black social movements. Suggests that the issue should not overshadow continued effort to gain economic stability…

Contends that the question of what Black Americans call themselves is a nonissue that diverts attention from larger problems without contributing to their solution. Traces widespread crime, poverty, educational failure, and institutional breakdown to the erosion of Black family and community values, and urges the reversal of this trend. (AF)