Read on Twitter
I see some clownery on my TL today about Black identity, so let me make something clear: race is a lot like astrology. Both systems are not based on science. White people created the system of race with a bunch of rules that they just made up, and someone also made up astrology.
Now, you can say "hey, I don't believe in astrology." But what you CAN'T say is "I know my birthday makes me a Virgo according to this system, but I want to be a Pisces!"
Race is similar. You can say "hey, I think the system of race is baseless and unscientific." But what you CAN'T say is "I know biracial Black people are considered Black, but I don't want them to be labeled Black anymore!" You didn't create the system, B. You don't make the rules
And whether you like this system or not, the harsh reality is that a lot of biracial people will be treated as Black in this system because Whites are still dominant. For now, the ones who yield the power determine our experience: not you, Hotep.
And some people think recognizing this reality is "supporting the system." Well I've got some news: verbally denying something doesn't mean SHIT until you can create tangible change that will improve Black people's experience, and for now, you don't have that power.
I understand some biracial people can pass, and colorism is REAL. But realistically a lot of us can't pass. African features are genetically dominant. Melanin is dominant. Most of us don't come out looking like Angelina Jolie.
And boy can Whites sniff-out non-Whiteness from a mile away. Being biracial didn't save me from being called the N-word. It didn't save me from being regarded as "hard to work with" at my job. It didn't save me from my 2nd grade teacher trying to put me in special education.
So cut it out. I've regarded myself and culturally identified as Black my whole life. It's fine if ya'll stay mad about it, because most of those complaining wouldn't bust a grape in a damn fruit salad for the Black community anyways.
