As I navigated the aisles of a local store, I noticed a familiar scene. A tall, Black man was leaving the building, masked per COVID-19 regulations, dressed in casual attire. Shortly after he exited, a police officer approached him, requesting identification and a receipt. The man, who later identified himself as state representative Marcus James, questioned why he was singled out. The officer replied, “With everything going on, it’s hard to know who’s a threat. I couldn’t see your face.” This exchange raised an important question: What does someone who poses a threat even look like?
This incident, much like others that have made headlines, illustrates the underlying biases that persist in our society and is precisely why I am reluctant to bring my Black children to stores right now.
Since the beginning of March, my four children, all of whom are Black, have not set foot in a store due to the shelter-in-place orders. With the introduction of mandatory masks in public spaces, the situation has worsened. While I recognize the importance of wearing masks and practicing social distancing for public health, I am acutely aware of how implicit biases can come into play, especially regarding people of color. The potential for “BBQ Beckys” and “Cornerstore Carolines” to escalate minor situations is ever-present, and we’ve noticed an increased security presence in many shops.
Before the pandemic, my kids learned essential shopping rules, such as keeping their hoods down and avoiding putting their hands in their pockets. They are not allowed to shop alone, even my older children. Running or yelling in stores is strictly off-limits, and they must only touch items they intend to buy. When they reach the checkout, they must always ask for a store-issued bag and a receipt, no matter how small the purchase may be.
In stark contrast, I enjoy a privilege that allows me to shop without fear. As a white woman, I can leisurely browse through aisles, exploring products without anyone questioning my intentions. My reusable tote fills with items, and when I reach the register, I can casually chat with the cashier as I pay. Never do I face scrutiny or suspicion.
The experience of Representative James is not isolated. There are countless stories of Black individuals facing unjust treatment. A physician named Dr. Adrian Brooks was once handcuffed while loading his vehicle with supplies to help the homeless outside his own home, all because a police officer suspected him of wrongdoing. It wasn’t until his wife confirmed their residence that he was released.
In a recent tweet, James noted that he was surrounded by other masked shoppers who weren’t facing scrutiny, yet he was the one deemed suspicious. He reflected on the inherent dangers that Black men face simply for following mask mandates, highlighting how these biases can escalate into dangerous encounters.
This is not just a matter of perception; real incidents reveal a troubling reality. A viral video recently captured a white homeowner blocking a Black delivery driver, demanding to know his purpose in the neighborhood. This came shortly after the tragic case of Ahmaud Arbery, a Black man killed while jogging in his own neighborhood, underscoring the dangers that can arise from racial profiling.
The harsh truth is that no amount of education, good behavior, or societal standing can shield a Black person from prejudice. They can be engaged in everyday activities, like shopping or jogging, and still face unjust suspicion. Masks, while necessary for health, can further complicate these interactions, making them even more dangerous.
Regardless of how I prepare my children for shopping trips, the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic present unique challenges for families of color. While mask mandates are essential for public safety, they sometimes place individuals at greater risk. As James poignantly stated, “COVID will not break us. It will only reveal to us what is already broken.” There is much work to be done.
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Summary:
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the challenges faced by Black families, particularly in shopping environments where biases can lead to unfair treatment. Despite following stringent rules, the implicit biases associated with mask-wearing can create dangerous situations. The experiences of individuals like Marcus James highlight the need for awareness and change in society.