Who is Alex Haley?

Question

And why would I be relating him to adoption?

Answer 1

author of many books but you probably only know,"Roots"

Answer 2

haley's work (and the quote), as accepted by many black theorists purports that many of the identity issues faced by black americans today (preference for lighter skin, chemically straightened hair and more eurocentric appearance; and being angry at blacks who choose to not "get over it" and play nicely) are a direct result of the "soul wounds" created by forcibly removing people from their natal culture during slavery juxtaposed with an inate desire to reconnect with their natal culture.

in reference to adoption, i can clealy see the analogy. especially among adoptees who purport to have no issues with being removed from their natal family/culture; yet find fault in other adoptees who speak out for reform.

Answer 3

You are equating slavery with adoption. Whatever.

He wrote "Roots" and was the posterity of African slaves brought to the United States against their will by slave traders.

What's your point?

Answer 4

“In all of us there is a hunger, marrow deep, to know our heritage, to know who we are, and where we have come from. Without this enriching knowledge, there is a hollow yearning, no matter what our attainments in life, there is the most disquieting loneliness.”

~~Alex Haley~~

Only people try to tell me this doesn't apply to ME simply because I was adopted when I was a child!!!!!!!!!!!

Spydermom - I wish there were more adoptive parents like you, I believe your child IS truly blessed!  Hugs.

Answer 5

He is an African American author, best known for Roots, but also co-wrote the Autobiography of Malcolm X.

Would you be thinking about this quote?

“In all of us there is a hunger, marrow deep, to know our heritage, to know who we are, and where we have come from. Without this enriching knowledge, there is a hollow yearning, no matter what our attainments in life, there is the most disquieting loneliness.”

~~Alex Haley~~

ETA:

It's a wonderful quote, thanks for making me aware of it! I will copy it to possibly use in my daughter's lifebook.

Answer 6

Of course the book Roots.

I find it interesting that the African American culture in itself has been fractured by slavery.  It stripped family from the African American man.  It took away the lessons of fatherhood that are passed from generation to generation. African American women very seldom relinquish their child.  That in itself is absolutely fascinating.  

I also find it interesting that in the white America adoption and abortion has stripped white fathers of their fatherhood and of their sense of responsibility towards children and women.

Answer 7

wow, that is fantastic, i love it.

i learned something new, thanks guys! great and powerful quote.