The Struggle Over African American Cultural Identity. This paper discusses the political struggle over cultural identity via "the naming" process, whereby certain social constructions reinforce systems of racial oppression. Throughout American history, racial identities have been formed by not only politics, but also by the intersection of class and racial boundaries. The paper argues that African Americans must struggle to rid themselves of certain traits that have been internalized from the white power structure. African Americans must work to open a discourse outside of the parameters of language built by white elites. In this way they can shape their own racial and cultural identity. 7 pgs. Bibliography lists 8 sources. Pages: 7 Bibliography: 8 source(s) listed Filename: 3767 African American Identity.doc Price: 62.65