Choose either Option A or Option B. Formulate an initial post in which you address the points noted in the prompt for your chosen option.

Option A: Race and Identity

Historian Robin Kelley stated, “Race was never just a matter of how you look, it’s about how people assign meaning to how you look” (Herbes-Sommers, 2003). Considering what you learned from the , Chapter 3 in your textbook, and your own experiences, answer the following questions:

• What do you think is meant by the term racial smog?
• How do racial categories shape our identities and social status?

Option B: Language, Status, and Identity

Anthropologists believe that language sends messages about who we are, where we come from, and with whom we associate. Based on the readings, explain how language can determine status. Using section 4.8 of the textbook, provide specific examples that illustrate and support your point of view.

Your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support your claims with examples from the required materials and/or other scholarly sources. Cite your sources in the body of your post and provide a complete reference for each source used at the end of it. By Day 7, respond to at least two of your peers, including one who responded to the option you did not choose. Demonstrate your understanding of the topic by respectfully asking questions, raising new points for consideration, or requesting clarification from your fellow students.