Navigating Race:
My Experience as a Biracial Child in a Mostly White Community and the Impact of Systemic Racism
By Michael Smith
January 15, 2023
As a biracial child growing up in a mostly white community in Ohio, I often found myself navigating the complexities of my racial identity. I was frequently told by others that I was "not like the other ones," which led me to believe that to be accepted, I had to deny my black side. This was a difficult and confusing experience, as I struggled to reconcile the messages I received from society with my own sense of self. Despite these challenges, I have come to identify as black today. This is not only because of my physical appearance but also because of the experiences and cultural background that have shaped who I am. I believe that it's important to acknowledge that race is a social construct and that one's identity can change over time.
It's important to recognize that the experience of biracial individuals can be unique and that society's perception of race is constantly evolving. As we continue to have more conversations about race, it's important to include the perspectives of biracial individuals and to acknowledge the complexity and fluidity of racial identity. Furthermore, my experiences have also made me aware of the importance of representation and visibility of successful and accomplished individuals within marginalized communities, and the role of language in perpetuating racism and discrimination.
My experiences in Youngstown, Tallahassee, and Atlanta have taught me the importance of actively working to dismantle these systems of oppression. This means challenging our own biases, supporting policies and initiatives that promote equal opportunities for all, and recognizing the intersectionality of discrimination and the impact of historical events.
It's important to note that the experiences of biracial individuals can vary greatly depending on the specific racial identities they hold. For example, the experiences of a biracial person with a black and white parent may differ greatly from the experiences of a biracial person with an Asian and white parent. It's important to acknowledge and recognize this diversity within the biracial community and understand that the discrimination and microaggressions that individuals face can vary based on the specific racial identities they hold.
Additionally, it's important to acknowledge the ongoing impacts of historical events, such as slavery and segregation, that have created and perpetuated these systems of oppression. According to a study by the Economic Policy Institute, the median net worth of white households is nearly ten times that of black households, a gap that has remained relatively unchanged over the past three decades. This is due, in part, to the fact that wealth is passed down through generations, and the legacy of slavery and discrimination has left many black families without the resources to build wealth.
Furthermore, the criminal justice system also plays a role in perpetuating racial inequality. Studies have shown that black individuals are disproportionately targeted by law enforcement and are more likely to be incarcerated than white individuals. According to the NAACP, black individuals are five times more likely to be incarcerated than white individuals. This is even though crime rates do not vary significantly between racial groups.
Education is also an area where racial disparities persist. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, black students are more likely to attend schools with fewer resources and less experienced teachers. This can lead to lower academic achievement and reduced opportunities for success later in life.
It's also important to remember that the fight for racial justice is not only about changing laws and policies but also about changing hearts and minds. This means engaging in difficult conversations, challenging our own biases and stereotypes, and actively working to create a more inclusive and understanding society. On a personal level, it's important to find and surround yourself with a supportive community that will listen, understand, and uplifts you.
In conclusion, my experiences as a biracial child growing up in a mostly white community have taught me the importance of actively working to dismantle systems of racism, economic inequality, and other forms of oppression. It's crucial to challenge our own biases, support policies and initiatives that promote equal opportunities for all, and recognize the intersectionality of discrimination, the impact of historical events, the diversity within the biracial community, and the role of language. We must also acknowledge and use our privilege to support marginalized communities, change hearts and minds and surround ourselves with a supportive community. Only by working together can we create a more equitable and just society for all.
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