Dear White America,Can I Live ?
Just had the most enlightening conversation with a friend today that made me put things into perspective and really understand myself as a black student. It is very disheartening to see a friend breakdown because of the color of her skin and the mistreatment she, and many others, have endured as a student of color.
It sickens me that in this very day and age, persons of color are still not given respect or acknowledged as valuable contributions to this ever changing global society.
I constantly see this trend of "culture appropriation" as accepting black culture without having to deal with the side effects. People would much rather mock the culture and participate when they see fit, as opposed to dismantling racism and preconceived notions pertaining to minority groups.
I usually don't post statuses that reflect my feelings about institutionalized racism but enough is enough . I should not have to comfort a friend distraught and discouraged because of the color of her skin and how the world perceives her, and even myself, as a black woman in America. What frustrates me even more is the fact that I too feel the pressure from society and look to find a safe haven, only to be let down by people who are "sorry" or "wish they could do something to help"
After all of this I can't help but propose the question i'm sure ALL persons of color have replaying in the back of their minds :
Can I Live ?
