Black English

I just finished reading June Jordan's essay, and I feel completely moved. Moved emotionally, and intellectually; and I'm very glad to have read such a masterpiece of literature.
Initially I was offended, and thought the notion of a white English and a black English was ridiculous. Ebonics is a dialect. Teaching it formally would be like teaching how to speak English with an Indian accent, or perhaps with a lisp. Furthermore I was angry to hear standard English referred to as white English, and that it was oppressively being taught to everyone...including the 10+% of black Americans.
But after reading on, and really cogitating the issue, I've realized that there's so much truth to what Jordan tells us. Black English has been spoken for about 300yrs. It has definite rules, very formally explained by Jordan, and is an essential characteristic for a huge chunk of our population's culture.
I love how she states "we exist." (at least I'm pretty sure I read that somewhere, can't seem to find it now.) That statement says so much. I realize that in the US a black citizen must shed his culture in exchange for the ability to achieve in the business world. One does not have the option of typing a resume in black English. Jordan makes her point, and has convinced me that one should have such an option. One should exist, and be proud of his heritage.
She goes on to talk about the terrible tragedy of Reggie Jordan, which pounds in the final nail, about racism in America.
The essay was confrontational, moving, personal, and extremely enriching. I especially love the variety of styles and powerful voice she utilizes. I cannot stress enough what an excellent piece this was.