“How does one become a Patel?”
Allison Patel, North Chesterfield, VA My boss’s boss’s boss asked me this question at a big event where I was introduced in a place of...
What does “talking white” sound like
Meka Burnett-Gross, Virginia Beach, VA. Speaking correct English was a “must” growing up in my house but living in the south, I was often confronted...
I’ve never really been black enough.
Taylor Butts, Chesapeake, VA. I’m Black. Completely. I’ve tried to trace my ancestry but couldn’t get very far. I’m very light skinned and “talk white”...
Black, Mother, Sister, Wife, wonderfully made
Sylvia Jones, Virginia Beach, VA This is a thoughtful project to do. Everyone should give themselves a little time to think about themselves, positively.
Different is not bad, just different
Shaida Johnston, Falls Church, VA What is my nationality? I am American. I am as American as you are. Where am I from? Los Angeles,...
The “quiet girl” in the back
Alyssa Banas, VA. Before I attended college, I was known as the “quiet girl” that sat in the back of the class. I loved meeting...
I carry hope through young musicians
Virginia Jones, Danville, VA. I’m a 54 year old white lady living back in the south after 15 years away from home. Its not the...
I am BLACK & PROUD, always & forever.
Lauryn Fleming, Richmond, VA p>I feel as a black community we lack being prideful of who we truly are due to society. The saying “black...
No, but where are FROM from?
Tina, Birmingham. AL. Nevermind the fact that I speak with a southern accent, that my attire is noticeably of American influence, or that my last...
Family love comes from open hearts.
June Wells, Harrisonburg, VA My new family saved my life. I was finally safe and just one of “the kids” with my foster parents, Sam...
Family trees can tell you more
Isabella Evans, Seaford, VA Growing up I did not know much about my family tree. I only knew a select amount of my family. Digging...
I don’t know what I am.
Alexis Bing, VA Growing up, people would ask me “what are you mixed with?” They would call me “mixed girl” or “light bright.” I’ve even...
Don’t say “that is so black”
Ayla A. Wilk, Blacksburg, VA. I grew up in a small town in the south side of Virginia. Our town was built on a foundation...
I’m Hispanic, stop thinking I’m White
Leslya Chavez, Houston, TX Born and raised on the East coast of Virginia, though was raised in a Hispanic household. Grew up only Spanish till...
Things aren’t always as they seem
Richard, Richmond, VA This applies not only to racism and prejudice, but EVERYTHING!! That homeless person on the corner? They might have a Ph.D but...
