Kelly Grayson,
Tukwila, WA.
I recall my years of education, all my teachers would call my name and then overlook my hand when I raised it. Repeatedly, they would call me until I said, “I’m right here.” Shocked to see a Black girl with my name (Kelly Grayson), they would treat me more differently than the other students in my class, as if I had been inducted into the some sort of ‘White’ Hall of Fame. Growing up in an urban setting, can you imagine the conflict that caused?! Well, now that I’m an adult, there’s really not been any change. I introduce myself and you should see the looks of wonder I get…all I can say is, my parents were intentional when they named me. It has at times both helped and hurt me…
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