In the past decade, the suicide rate among young blacks has risen to the point where it is nearly as high as that of their white peers. There is, however, a striking contrast in age distribution in the suicide patterns of whites and blacks. Whereas white suicide increases in direct relation with advancing chronological age, suicide among black males reaches its peak in the 15-24 year old age group. Current statistics do not reflect a similar increase in suicides among black women. In this document these and other data relating to black suicide are discussed. The different regional distribution of high suicide rates among blacks and whites are described. Current explanations for rising suicide rates, as put forth in the sparse literature on the subject, are examined. An alternative explanation, pointing to the importance of strong family and communal ties as a buffer against black suicide, is proposed. (Author/GC)