Author: Angela Thompson
Date: August 2, 2023
In recent times, our nation has experienced a tempestuous period marked by heightened racial tensions. The recent presidential primary has revealed an unsettling amount of racially charged discourse, much more than in previous years. A recent advertisement from a popular clothing retailer featuring an interracial family and their children ignited a wave of disapproving comments on social media, expressing outrage at “miscegenation” and advocating for “pure bloodlines.” Additionally, troubling insinuations surrounding Malia Obama’s acceptance to Harvard have surfaced, further adding to the dismay. Like countless others, I find these occurrences deeply troubling.
Yet for me, this situation is profoundly personal. My partner is black, and I am white, and together we are raising three vibrant, inquisitive biracial children—the eldest of whom will soon be grappling with some tough questions about identity and race.
Reflecting on the Past
Let’s rewind to 2008. Regardless of political affiliations, we were exhilarated at the thought of electing a biracial president. My husband and I often discussed how we never expected to witness such a historic moment in our lifetime. I felt immense joy knowing that my son, who was just 18 months old at the time, would grow up under the leadership of a black president, blissfully unaware of the significance of this milestone.
I can’t adequately address the complexities of our nation’s racial history, but I can share my perspective. The racial undercurrents that have emerged in the past eight years, particularly during this election cycle, are alarming. I often find myself tuning out news stories, fearing for my children’s future.
A Safe Haven
Fortunately, my children are fortunate to attend a welcoming local school with a diverse student body, where they encounter peers of various backgrounds, including children with same-sex parents. However, home remains their true sanctuary. Outside, we face lingering stares and intrusive questions. When I’m out alone with the kids, I’ve been met with inquiries about their birth mother. (My response? Yes, I know everything about her!) While curiosity is understandable, the lack of discretion can be astonishing.
A dear friend once shared, half-laughing, that her parents adore my husband but she struggles to tell them that their granddaughter is dating a black boy and wishes to bring him over. This is what troubles me. I may not have encountered a member of the KKK in my life, even after years in the South, but I have certainly met many individuals who, while appreciating my husband, would quietly disapprove if their child were to date someone of a different race.
Challenging Assumptions
I am not equipped to transform the beliefs of those who view one race as inferior to another. Thankfully, I believe only a small fraction of the population holds such views. However, I question whether a larger segment of society, either consciously or unconsciously, harbors negative assumptions about families like ours or about children who resemble mine. Perhaps we can gain some clarity if we take a moment to envision a child.
Imagine a young boy with brown skin and curly hair, and consider the assumptions you might make about him—his family, his behavior, or even his intelligence. Yet he is merely a child who enjoys playing with Legos and adores Star Wars. He excels academically. His brother, who has recently decided to grow an Afro, is captivated by the Little House on the Prairie series, recalling each detail of Laura and Mary Ingalls’s adventures. And their little sister, with her lovely olive skin and soft curls? She adores her brothers and loves her dolls (both brown and white) as well as Thomas the Tank Engine tales.
Hopes for the Future
We may have differing views on politics, social policies, or race relations, but I believe we can all appreciate the beauty and innocence of childhood. My hope is that many years will pass before my children encounter terms like “miscegenation” or “half-breed.” I yearn for every adult they meet to view them without preconceived notions. Ultimately, I hope they grow up in a world that values them for their character above all else.
Resources for Family Planning
For those interested in exploring options for family planning and home insemination, resources like Cleveland Clinic’s podcast offer valuable insights. Additionally, products such as the Cryobaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit and BabyMaker At Home Insemination Kit are excellent options for prospective parents.
Summary
This article reflects on the challenges and hopes of raising biracial children in a racially charged society. The author shares personal experiences and aspirations for her children to grow up in a world that values character over race. The discussion also highlights resources for family planning and home insemination.
Keyphrase: aspirations for biracial children
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