In exploring the identity of Black Americans, it's essential to look beyond the traditional labels often used in schools and media. Many Black children are taught they are 'not Black' in the conventional African sense but are instead connected deeply to the indigenous roots of America itself. From personal experience, learning about the history of the colonizer and the changing narratives around African heritage helped me understand the complex layers of identity. For instance, hearing about countries like Liberia—founded by relocated freed American slaves—helps underline how intertwined Black American history is with the formation of modern nations. At Kingsbury High School, discussions about identity go beyond skin color to include bloodline and cultural heritage, which often challenges the simplified African-American label. Understanding this nuanced perspective helps students question Eurocentric narratives and recognize their unique place in American history. This approach emphasizes educating youth on how names, countries, and cultural backgrounds have evolved through colonization and migration, such as the role of America and European colonizers in shaping African and Black American identities. Moreover, acknowledging the indigenous connections shifts the narrative from one centered solely on African origins to one that embraces the Black American experience as fundamental to America’s foundation. This shift encourages a critical look at political and cultural education provided in schools and fosters pride rooted in true indigenous history. For many, this means reclaiming identity not as a mere subset of African diaspora but as original inhabitants whose stories and contributions predate colonization. Such a reexamination can empower communities to forge new narratives that honor their complex heritage while addressing historical erasure.