As each semester begins I anxiously await to see the ethnic composition of my public speaking classes. And each semester I find myself lecturing to a class that is more than 80 percent white and 20 percent people of color.

Rarely does the latter percentage represent Black and African-American students. So we must ask the question -- Why? Do these students not see the importance of such a class? Are they intimidated or uncomfortable taking part in this class?

Unfortunately, we may not want to hear the answers to those questions. Even though research has shown that developed communication skills are important for all students, still the interest is not apparent. Part of this lack of interest has to do with the fear of public speaking. However, considering that public speaking is ranked in the top five of societal fears, we can conclude that it is an issue for everyone and not just Black students.

But it is important to focus attention specifically on the African-American student and public speaking.p One argument suggests that students feel as though there is no need for such a class. No one needs to teach them how to talk or speak. So what purpose does this class serve? That is the same reasoning given by many students at historically Black colleges who feel it is not necessary to take Black Studies courses because they are Black and already submerged in the culture. They are wrong.

There is a need for all students to take a communication skills course. Just like any other subject matter, there is a process in achieving and delivering a successful speech. A public speaking course teaches the skills of organizing ideas and being able to articulate them in a variety of settings. Without some experience or prior knowledge, it is difficult to actually succeed at doing so.

The most upsetting aspect of this issue is that African-American students feel intimidated and sometimes uncomfortable participating in a public speaking class. Many students assume they have to assimilate into what is deemed "correct" or "proper" language and speaking styles.