As a parent, I find myself reflecting on my son’s perception of his identity. While he is aware of his darker skin tone, he remains blissfully unaware of the complexities and challenges associated with being Black in our society. He recognizes that his skin is darker than mine and that his father is white, but he does not yet grasp the historical and social narratives tied to his skin color.
My son has no knowledge of the injustices faced by African Americans, such as the slave trade, segregation laws, or the Civil Rights Movement. Events that have shaped the landscape of race relations in America, like those in Ferguson or Cleveland, are foreign to him. He does not yet understand the significance of phrases like “Black lives matter,” nor does he realize that people can be treated differently based on their skin color.
However, I know that this innocence will not last. As he grows, especially once he enters grade school, he will be introduced to lessons about Black history during February and beyond. He will learn that the rights and freedoms we enjoy today have not always existed, and our family’s diverse background is a testament to progress and liberty.
As he delves into the past, he will encounter stories of resilience and triumph. Figures like Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, and Martin Luther King Jr. will become part of his education. He will learn about the struggles and victories that have paved the way for the freedoms we experience, gaining an understanding that while we have made significant strides, the journey towards racial equality and reconciliation is ongoing.
For now, my son delights in using an array of crayons to represent the people he loves, recognizing that love and trust extend beyond color. Even at his young age, he understands these values are fundamental to building relationships and fostering unity. Love and trust can bridge divides and dismantle the barriers of hatred and fear.
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In summary, my son’s understanding of his identity is a journey that will unfold over time. While he currently views love and trust as the foundations of relationships, he will inevitably learn about the historical context of his skin color. As we equip him with knowledge, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of the world around him.