Jennifer De Shields
Philadelphia, PA

I grew up in a very white town, and the parents of my white friends would marvel at my manners and intelligence. Since I’m rather light skinned some people refused to believe that both of my parents are black. I spoke too well. I liked to read. I respected my elders. All of those good qualities negated my blackness in their eyes, and when I look back I wish I wasn’t as well behaved.