During the first part of this semester, our class has discussed slave religion a few times. The different statements of some people and the discussions in class opened up a deeper understanding of the slave religion for me. From African American slaves to the black race today, I believe black people have come a long way in recognizing their own identity. African American religious theologians and historians such as James Cone and Gayraud Wilmore and scholars such as Albert Raboteau have identified slave religion as important to the maintenance of culture for African Americans. Cone and Wilmore proposed ideas of black theology. I believe their theories show how African Americans can gain their identity through their religious and cultural practices. I believe that the greatest struggle of African Americans in a racist society is the struggle to regain their collective identity and culture. However, they show how it is possible to overcome racial discrimination and stereotypes. Although Albert Raboteau was not necessarily a theologian, his claims that slaves found their own way of life despite being dehumanized easily connect to the ideas of Cone and Wilmore. The arguments and ideas put forward by Cone, Wilmore, and Raboteau make me think about what it means to be black in America. I believe the battle for culture and identity is at stake for African Americans; from past to present. However, I will show how the ideas and statements of James Cone, Gayraud Wilmore, and Albert Raboteau pave the way for the African American race. African American religious culture is a distinct custom in America. The distinct identity of African-American culture is deeply rooted in the historical experience of African-Americans... middle of paper... finding their own identity. However, Cone and Wilmore proposed the ideas of black theology that help us understand that it is possible to be black in America. Cone believed above all that there was power in the African-American race. Raboteau shows how we can adapt to any cruelty just as slaves did to support their religion and culture. I believe we should encourage people to recognize information consistent with reducing stereotypes. This will go a long way in dispelling the damage they have caused to society. Works Cited Cone, James H. Black Theology, and Black Power. New York: Seabury, 1969. Print.Raboteau, Albert J. Slave Religion: The “invisible Institution” in the antebellum South. New York: Oxford UP, 1978. Print.Wilmore, Gayraud S. “Chapter 1-3.” Black religion and black radicalism. Garden City, New York: Doubleday, 1972. 1-71. Press.