Lesbian – open, proud, happy & sometimes fearful
Kay Thorson, Richmond, VA I “can” pass for straight (if I want to) in uncomfortable situations, but so many other minorities or ethnic groups cannot....
Solidarity means losing (some) family ties
Jen Owen, Glen Allen, VA “I can hardly talk to you anymore.” My father said this after he’d used a racial epithet and I told...
I wish I were something else
Ashley, Ashland, VA It’s very hard to be proud of the skin you are in when your ancestors were terrible people.
Your fear is not my fault.
Lawrence Dortch, Vienna, VA. I’m tired of smiling all the time to alleviate other people’s fears of me. I am not a monster and I...
My skin is darker than yours.
Kristin Cooke, Richmond, VA I often was told my white friends were more black than me because of their tan. Outside of being asked “Do...
He can’t swim, Dad saves him.
Jim Michonski, Virginia Beach, VA. I grew up in a military family. The March on Washington happened when I was two years old. We mostly...
White but never owned a slave
Crystal, Fredericksburg, VA Honestly I am getting sick and tired of being told I need to apologize for slavery. I have NEVER owned a slave...
My Mother Hated My Dark Skin
Mike Elliott Alexandria, VA My mother was brown. Her skin a shade so perfect until the day she died she was “Puddin” to her family...
Don’t tell that joke ever again!
Simone Robinson, Henrico, VA. Submitted via Twitter: @PttSophisticate
I promise to stand against injustices
Kaylena Crowell, Norfolk, VA Growing up, my mom taught me to stand up for what I believe in, no matter the consequences. My family, originating...
Pro peace, not anti war.
Mallorie Morris, Springfield, VA we can not fight this ongoing war of racism with more racism and hate. we must learn to accept our differences...
Lincoln Memorial with Ace. I understand.
Jonny Cecka, Richmond, VA. I have always had progressive attitudes about equality and so-called “race,” but visiting the Lincoln Memorial with my adopted 13-year-old son,...
Who Is That Mean Black Man?
Kevin Creamer, Richmond, VA #URTRCP #TheRaceCardProject These words were said to me by my then three-year old daughter, who was reflecting in her mind about...
