I like your answer, but as a nation that stands divided now, we all define each other by definitive characteristics. I don't like calling people black/African, Hispanic, Asian etc. etc.... Unless referring to a traceable lineage. I can't call myself a "Dutch-American" as it's been [b][i]SEVERAL[/i][/b] generations since my family immigrated to America. I'm just American.

I prefer to be recognized by my character. Whether someone called me black or African-American either is fine for me. :-)