I lost my dad when I was 12. But, it didn’t hinder my will to achieve and be, me. Part of my sensitivity to the world came from allowing myself to grow from tragedy. I want similar for my 2 boys. To know that they can still function and live a life that they want, ...
I get stares from people of all ages - I find people have a natural desire to categorize me before they speak to me, but I fuck up their ethnicity-determining algorithm somehow. Spanish speakers act surprised when I can’t answer back in Spanish. Many people will make small talk just long enough to ask which tan-skinned ...
At any given moment, anything and everything can be taken away. I feel my kids acknowledge this and even though they can get carried away with asking for more than they need, they know that there is someone out there who needs more than they do. In a country of such abundance, the most powerful influence ...
I wouldn't say proud. I'd say grateful. I am grateful to be an American. With all that is being said by the the current administration and people with fascist ideals, I am grateful for laws, so that I am still able to live my life. I don't think I can say that I am proud of ...
Personal experience with white-washing stands out. During an exchange with a high school cheerleading squad mate. My friend expressed that she had made a statement during another conversation, explaining, I don't even think of her as black. That was an insult to me and pivotal first lesson of how to socially assert myself. I am proud to ...