By alluding to whitman’s poem in "i, too, sing america" hughes was able to
draw connections to us cultural heritage.
criticize other african american poets.
become the leader of the harlem renaissance.
write about the us in a totally new way.

Draw connections to US cultural heritage.

Explanation:

This is the most likely reason why Hughes included this allusion to Whitman in his poem. In this poem, Hughes refers to the "singing America," which is an allusion to the poetry of Walt Whitman. Hughes most likely included this in order to draw connections to an American cultural heritage. He is telling us that he, and every other African American, is as American as Whitman's poems, and as anyone who learns from them and enjoys them.

what did the protagonist say?

i am not sure, but i think the correct answer is a.

hope it : -)