Anissa
“For me, being Black in America is complex. Primarily, it's complex because I am also White. However, I don't experience the world as a White person, and when I interact with other people, they do not view me as a White person. The "White" aspect of who I am is much more apparent in my cultural identity. Like I said, complex. Being Black in America is also heavy. Heavy in the awareness of how Black people have been systematically marginalized in this country in virtually every aspect of our history. Heavy in acknowledging how that history impacts my life today. Heavier still when I consider what this historical impact means for my three sons and knowing that systematic marginalization is just as much a current trend as it is a distant memory. Being Black in America is grounding. I feel grounded in an affinity with Black and Brown people in this country and around the world. I take pride in the deeply held values and rich traditions of Black people. I am inspired by the monumental strength and resilience of Black people and I am motivated to align my personal and professional efforts to the pursuit of equity and social justice - knowing that anything I accomplish in that realm contributes to progress not only for Black people, but also for the greater good of humanity.”
© J.Chong Photography (Las Vegas Photographer)
