Everyone has been forced to listen to white people for 400 hundred years. Now look at us. If we listened to Black women, we wouldn’t be in this mess.

American racism should not be swept under the rug for future generations to deal with. Pain is not going away for anyone. By helping to heal America, John and those like him will gain the forgiveness they so desperately seek. And, Black people will give grace and mercy.

“You Seem Nice”

It’s hard to believe that someone could live their whole life in America and never have a Black friend.

The Invitation

“We should get together,” are the dreaded words with no intention.

I’ve heard this statement many times after I’ve met someone new. I’ve heard it from all types of well-intentioned individuals, but to me it seems white people fail to follow through the most. Since childhood, I’d always been taught that you cannot wait for people to invite you to be friends, especially white people. My mom said, “Nerissa, you have to extend the invitation first. White people won’t include you on their own. They are comfortable within their groups of friends. You are new to them.”

I Can Read Condé Nast Traveler Too

In my attempt to build bridges and understand all people, my family has traveled all over the world, never going to the same place twice. Our travels have shaped our lives in so many ways. We’ve grown after every adventure, forming new contacts and friends, and stretching ourselves in the constant pursuit to evolve.

DeSean Jackson, a professional football player, injected more hate into an already tense time in our country. He posted anti-semitic messages on his Instagram which sparked national outrage.

Don’t Make This Mistake

Don’t rush to show your support of Black lives and pick the wrong Negro. Read this first.

I Was a Child

“Don’t trust white people,” my mother had said.

Self-Reflection and Change

Tensions are high as the racial protest for injustice continue. A variety of social media posts have been circulating online revealing a resistance to self-reflection and change. People cheering and agreeing using emoji’s and likes, a sense of collective understanding that the solution to race relations is to just “do you” and everything will be alright.

I’ll Tell You What I See.

Many people are feeling uneasy about the current international protests and laser focus on racism. This article may touch a nerve for some, but the intention is to be revealing. Try to have an open mind and resist being defensive. Racism has many layers and this piece will highlight a few I’ve seen uncovered recently.