I,speaking solely for myself, have had the following experiences on multiple occasions...

1. Childhood until 17 years old...

Non-ADOS: Where are you from?

Me: Um... I mean I’m not really sure.

Non-ADOS: *Crickets* Ooohhhh

2. 18 until more recent...

Non-ADOS: Where are you from?

Me: Here.

Non-ADOS: No, where are you originally from?

Me: Nowhere else that I know of. I’m a Black American or you know, African-American, even tho Africa is a continent so... idk

Non-ADOS: *Crickets* Ooohhhh

3. Going forward...

Non-ADOS: Where are you from?

Me: I’m ADOS.

Non-ADOS: You’re what?

Me: American Descendant of Slavery. Black American. My greats were in slavery here on this land. We been here.

Non-ADOS: No you’re from Africa

Me: How is this difficult for you??

In the first two stages I felt somewhat lost, ashamed, and less than because I didn’t have some exotic place to claim as “home.” These feelings were also brought on by others who seemingly dismissed me from the excitement in the room once I said I was from America.

The confidence and pride that I have today can’t be bothered. People had something to say when I said I didn’t know where I was from and people have something to say now that I proudly claim America. So I say fine. Leave me alone and worry about yours. Cause this here is mine.