Final answer:
Capitalizing 'Black' and 'African American' when writing is important to acknowledge and respect their cultural identity and shared experiences. It helps to promote inclusiveness and resist systemic racism, while recognizing the Black community's historical significance and contributions to American history.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is important to capitalize the words Black and African American when writing because it acknowledges their cultural identity and shows respect for their unique experiences. This practice reflects an understanding of the historical significance of their community and contributes to more inclusive language. By capitalizing these terms, writers signify that the words represent a distinct group of people with shared history and culture, and align with contemporary linguistic approaches that seek to honor the identities of different ethnic groups.
Moreover, capitalizing Black also corresponds to the movement of recognizing the injustices and the resilience of the Black community throughout American history. It becomes a form of resistance against the systemic racism and dehumanization they have faced, by affirming their significance and rightful place in society. In writing, this capitalization makes a powerful statement about inclusion, respect, and the ongoing efforts to combat racism.