Shoutout to people having respectful conversations with someone of a different background for the first time.
You do, in fact, sound as awkward as you think you do. More awkward, actually, because while this is your first conversation like this, it is definitely not the first time for the person you’re talking to, and they may be pretty tired of it. And you’re stumbling around not sure what words it’s okay for you to use, and what’s okay to bring up, and you may not even be making much sense.
But it’s obvious that you see the person you’re talking to as a fellow person, worthy of respect. It’s obvious that you’re trying to connect and find common ground. You’re listening to what they’re saying, and when you say something insulting (which you almost certainly will), you apologize and don’t do it again.
You’re nervous, and yes, it’s obvious that you’re nervous, but you’re still trying. And it’s okay. You’ll get better at this. This is only the first of many conversations like this, and as the novelty wears off, you’ll get better and better at paying more attention to the conversation, and less attention to how you come across. After a while, this will just be a conversation like any other.
But first, you have to have this first conversation. Which you’re doing!