The joys and tribulations of being mixed
I am mixed.
My mother is Caucasian and my biological father is African American. Because I am mixed, people think I am more one color than another. People ask me, “Do you think you are more black or white?”
The truth is, I am both. I do not see myself as more of a color. I am Native American as well, but no one ever sees that. I am a person who is blended. Gray is not visibly black or white. Gray comes in different shades, though. When I see light gray, I don’t think that gray is more white.
Being mixed means I still am subject to racism. In the beginning, my grandfather did not like the fact that I was going to be mixed. Then my grandfather realized being mixed is me. He realized that my colors didn’t affect him. Being mixed means people ask me which of my parents is African American. When they ask me that, I feel like they are ready to judge my family – the “stereotypical black man” who likes white women.
The man who is married to my mother is African American, but he is not my biological father. My real father is African American, but he left. That is when my father came into the picture, some years later. So, yes, it is stereotypical, but that is not just because he is African American. Most people are very surprised when I say my mom and dad are still together. They are surprised because they think my father is my biological father. I have mixed friends with both parents still together. Being mixed means people assume, judge and question your home life. Being mixed means people always say, “You don’t act white.” I can’t act a color. I am me. Just because I am mixed does not mean I have to act a certain way.
Being mixed is amazing and has lots of benefits. I have a year-round tan, for example. I have the most amazing brown eyes. I am accepting of people because I would love to be accepted. I have been exposed to different cultures. When I have children, I hope they are as proud to be mixed as I am. Even though being mixed has its trial and tribulations, I love it. Being mixed makes me beautiful and diverse. My skin color does not define me, my actions, my clothes, my family or my background. I am proud of all of my nationalities.
Even if some people abhor that I am mixed, even if some people think I would look better one color, I am beautiful. In more ways than one, I am proud of who I am. I smile when people ask me if I am mixed. I smile and answer all of their questions because they are curious. I may have a diverse family tree, but I am just like everyone else. I bleed red.
Being mixed means being unique. Being mixed means people get curious. But being mixed is also me.
Koron Harris is a senior at Trinity High School. This essay won first place in a Black History Month essay contest sponsored by Washington Health System Teen Outreach.