Brown

One of the biggest changes I've noticed since arriving in Olympia is my attitude towards brown and Brown people.  

I'll be one of the first to admit that I am a product of my society and have internalised the prejudices against Brown-skinned people.  Most people are surprised to know about the racism that exists within the Brown community, and much of it is because of the media messages we receive.  It's stifling, battling against the media's influence and trying to develop an identity with cultural expectations.

But here in Olympia... every thing is different, at least for me.  I 've only realised how much pressure I felt to be the exception to the negative stereotypes plaguing the African-American community.  Now, I simply am. I don't feel like I have to perform for anyone anymore.  Maybe it was being gay and living in the Bible Belt, or being in the same place for over 15 years, or maybe it was the people who seemed so superficial.  Whatever the reason, it's freeing living up here, and my perspective on all things Brown has completely changed.

I'm not judged by the Brownies here, because I'm an Oreo (Black on the outside, White on the inside) or "not acting Black enough".  There is a real sense of community and acceptance at Evergreen.  And possibly in reaction, I'm not feeling so hostile toward my own people.  It's refreshing.  

And for the first time in a long time, I looked at my skin, and I saw not the burden of the colour, but the possibility for growth, and rising above all the negativity of my past.

God, it's good to be Brown.