People of mixed heritage have been part of the fabric of America since the beginning. Ironically, some white people feel superior to people of color but have no problem sleeping with them, therefore the birth of mixed races.
Although some would like to believe that white people built this country, that could not be the farthest from the truth. This country was built and continues to stand on the backs of people from all backgrounds. I know that the blood of my Black ancestors runs deep in the soil of this land, and I am very proud to be a Black woman born here in America but who also holds onto the traditions and rich history of all my ancestors.
Although part of my family is white, the fact that I have Black blood running through my veins makes me a proud Black American. I did not happen to turn Black.
In 1705, North America used a 1/8 rule that would consider someone to be Black if they had even one-eighth percent of Black blood. In the South, this was known as the one-drop rule. This still stands true to this day. Although some laws may have been updated legally, the overall mindset of America remains the same.
My family is very multicultural, and as I shared, my maternal side is white, and my paternal side is Black, but America would view me as Black. Also, my grandchildren are of mixed heritage, and as far as I am concerned, we are all equal, and our family stands for the betterment of all humanity.
Being of mixed heritage in America involves navigating one’s own racial identity. Each person’s narrative often depends on how they were raised and the personal experiences they went through. Sometimes it can make you feel like you are straddling two different worlds where you do not feel like you belong. It can also cause some to struggle with their identity instead of accepting their whole self.
Race will always play a vital role in our lives, but it does not have to divide us. Standing together, united, and building upon each other’s strengths can be exactly what we need to continue to truly make America the country it has always had the potential to be. Maybe we really could become great, finally.
Some people push the slogan of making America great again or taking America back, but what does that truly mean? When I did a little research, some people thought America was better when their forefathers were enslavers and then in the 1950s when segregation was the rule. That was not when America was great. That was not even when America was suitable for everyone.
It was part of our history; now, it is time to move forward. America will never be free of racial issues, but we can work on accepting all Americans and the rich heritage we each contribute to our country.
For the record, I did not happen to turn Black; I am a Black woman who happens to be a bi-racial, multicultural woman who is proud of all the pieces of her life. Educator Mary McLeod Bethune said, “If we accept and acquiesce in the face of discrimination, we accept the responsibility ourselves and allow those responsible to salve their conscience by believing that they have our acceptance and concurrence.”
So, no, we will not go back, and we will not apologize for being Black. Together, we will stand proud to build a strong future for our children and our children’s children. Kamala, we see you.
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.
