African-American Students and Careers:

During this period, The Nubian Message sought to both warn and encourage their African-American peers about the threats of racial prejudice to black cultural expression beyond college campuses. In a number of different articles, the Message attempted to convey both the challenges and opportunities presented to African-Americans by workplaces often dominated by white bosses and co-workers.

For example, in her article on “The Afrikan-American Engineer in the 21^st Century,” staff writer DeShelia A. Spann argues, “there is a “cultural tax” for being a Black professional. This tax may manifest itself as heavy committee work on the job, as excess work to destroy “affirmative action” stereotypes, or as substantial community service in an effort to remain attached to or give something back to the community.” Moreover, Spann asserts that whereas African-American ministers and lawyers occupied leadership roles in the past, in the age of the Internet and digital technology, “Afrikan American scientists and engineers must play a more integral role in the discussion and determination of any national agenda for Black America.” In a similar vein, Message staff member Tonya Johnson points out that in her experience, “very few outside of our race look at us as intellectual individuals who can become successful lawyers, doctors, etc.”  Despite these obstacles, Johnson maintains her faith in God and her belief that African-Americans should derive pride and confidence from the accomplishments of their peers and ancestors.