European Blood Makes Us Better....?

This is a comment we got from our honeymag.com blog:

"The fact that there is a site just for mixed ppl (as if there not black) tells me how they really feel about regular black folks. do they not want to be black? Do they think that they are better because they have european blood in them? they better get over that shit real quick, because black people embrace them more than ANYONE on the face of the planet. yea, u got some black ppl who say ignorant things (”not black enough, etc”)but o well. Remember the one drop rule. as soon as you mixed folks do somethin that whitey don’t like– ur out! back to nigger status. who u gonna run to then? i’m not sayin hate white folks, but i’m saying embrace ( seriously ) ur african people too. we will always be here for you. i promise. can they?…"

Have you heard this before? 

Comments

[AP]

.

The Paper-Bag Test (just like the 'Willie Lynch Letter'
Hoax and the Light-Complexioned 'House Slave' Lie)
is a racist MYTH created to attack Mixed-Race people.

The links below show how
the 'Paper Bag Test' is a LIE.

http://boards.mulatto.org/post/show_single_post?pid=34070414&postcount=14

http://boards.mulatto.org/post/show_single_post?pid=34070161&postcount=13

.

[Joseph]

First of all, this person should note that the Racial Integrety Act was outlawed in Loving vs. Virginia. Yea, you're behind on the times. Also, I wonder if s/he would feel so about mulattoes knowing that there were mulattoes who also owned slaves like white people.

[Samuel]

mixed blood is what makes us better, biracial and bicultural.

[Joan]

Just to let you know, I'm not a member and am not affiliated with AMEA or BFN. I write on my own independent groups and my opinions are my own.

--Joan

[g495]

You 'directed' a few people away from 'this site'? Well, how feeble minded they are. I bet they let you think for them, too. Really, this isn't a site, it's a blog on www.typepad.com.

[Former Reader]

Kahlil is the only person on this site who "gets it".

I have directed quite a few people AWAY from this site (and will continue to do so), and I've also suggested they not waste their time here. (I predict that this site will lose a lot more readers.) However, on a brighter note, a much better site has been recommended and I must admit, it blows this site out of the water!

In any event, I just wanted to say good-bye to everyone (especially Kahlil).

[g495]

I can understand where Khalil is coming from with using passing as a way to obtain liberation and give back. If you take a close look at what I feel to be many of the pioneering the civil rights efforts, or opening of doors for minorities many of the people involved were of mixed ancestry. Now, whether they passed or didn't their personal achievements still opened doors for other minorities even if their true ancestry was reveal way after the fact, even post modem. Some people intentionally served the purpose of helping others, while there were people who were just pursuing their own interests. It's like Lena Horne verses Anita Hemmings, Anatole Broyard, or Carol Channing.

[Kahlil]

Yes, 30 yrs. Black; 30 Yrs. White & 30 Yrs. Native:

Black+White+Indian=Créole

I understand that our practices our different from those of you whom identify as bi-racial.

I also understand that this AMEA/BFN-based mixed-race mouvement is rooted in bi-racial rights & Black Power.

French culture and racial issues are more language-based [as opposed to colour-based], so we are forced to approach the struggles of Anglo-American culture a bit differently.

I was merely providing an alternative.

Good Luck in Your Respective Struggles.

Sincerely,

Kahlil Crauford de LaFontaine
CREOLE HERITAGE CENTER
Natchitoches, LA

[Kahlil]

Yes, 30 yrs. Black; 30 Yrs. White & 30 Yrs. Native:

Black+White+Indian=Créole

I understand that our practices our different from those of you whom identify as bi-racial.

I also understand that this AMEA/BFN-based mixed-race mouvement is rooted in bi-racial rights & Black Power.

French culture and racial issues are more language-based [as opposed to colour-based], so we are forced to approach the struggles of Anglo-American culture a bit differently.

I was merely providing an alternative.

Good Luck in Your Respective Struggles.

Sincerely,

Kahlil Crauford de LaFontaine
CREOLE HERITAGE CENTER
Natchitoches, LA

[Victoria Grace]

In reponse to "passing", I frankly think the vast majority of us who are light complexion and of Black descent have no need for it and don't even think about it. In the 21st century, I think we all have to ask the question: "Why pass?". There's no more Jim Crow. No more sitting in the back of the bus, being barred from certain restaurants, hotels, businesses, colleges. We don't need to "pass" anymore for certain "privileges" and in my personal opinion, I wouldn't want these privileges gained in such a manner, anyway. This is 2007, not 1927. The Civil Rights Movement was fought for by African-Americans, light and dark, precisely BECAUSE people of color could have the chance to succeed fairly being exactly who and what they are. What did we fight for, get attacked by police dogs for, and do sit-in for? For just a little more than 40 years later, some people pretending to be White like the Civil Rights movement had never even happened?

It's an old, forgotten practice that has no more relavance on our lives. I'd say that nearly all of us could care less about it.

Victoria

[Joan]

A few of you wrote in on the subject of "passing". I wrote an eye-opening commentary on this very subject. If you'll click on my name below you can link to it, or simply use this url.

"THEY WOULD NOT BE WHITE" by Joan Caradine

http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-G81wSg8jeqJVC9JtZjYUqRo-?cq=1&p=37

[Johanna Hyman]

Give what back to whom? How are YOU giving back?

Its interesting that you bring up Gideon's spies considering that you've previously told us that you consider yourself to be white...

[Kahlil]

No, Johanna. Think Gideon's spies.

You USE the "priveleges" (i.e., accesses/excesses) you have EARNED to GIVE BACK!

[Johanna Hyman]

Amen Joan!

[Johanna Hyman]

Kahlil,

How exactly is "Passing" liberating? Does it mean that I can have privileges granted to me by white people if I choose to do so? If so, I don't need white people to free me-Jesus already did that!!

[Joan]

The fact that a person has one white parent should not be synonomous with hatred of blacks or a mistaken assumption (on the part of the mixedrace person) of being "better" or "superior". With the moderate weakening of the one drop rule in recent decades, you can certainly be and openly say what you are. But for any of us who are mualtto, there's no sane purpose in "hating" blacks in the process. So it's disturbing IF black are really getting this impression of us.

If a mulatto assumes that he/she is superior to blacks, then they would also have to believe that whites are not only superior to blacks, but also superior to mulattoes. And if anyone really believes this, then that person is "ignant". :-)

I really think that G-d gives us the strongest and most conclusive argument AGAINST race hatred and feelings of "superiority".
G-d makes it clear that NONE of us are superior to the other no matter the race or color. Why? Because G-d has stated in His word that all people sin--EVERYONE. And if ALL people sin and are ultimately destined to the same fates, then how can any race be "superior" to the other--especially when based on something as superficial and temporary as skin color and physical features? According to the Bible, the only person who lived on earth and did not sin was Jesus Christ. Therefore, if you beleive what G-d has said, then it is obvious that this puts us ALL in the same boat whether we can DEAL or not. No one is "as pure as the driven snow" but G-d.

This is just one argument against claims of racial "superiority". There are other strong, rational arguments as well.

I think it is smart for American Mulattoes to NOT let themselves be "taken in by the bait"--that temptation to be deceived into believing that they are "better" than blacks. Already, too many whites and self-hating blacks have been bamboozled by this same deception. Whatever your reason, it's always best to side on the side of what is right and not wrong. No matter how popular the trend to do otherwise, you'll come on a winner in the end if you stick to doing what is right. Racist people are rushing towards the edge of a cliff of which they will eventually FALL OFF.

[Kahlil]

johanna:

u too often jump to conclusions; "Passing" is a liberation mechanism used to re-acquire our stolen goods...
As you continue your journey you shall realize the "art of sacrifice for liberation"; if not by "passing" then by other means...

[Johanna Hyman]

Kahlil,

I would never purposely try to "pass" as white. Unlike yourself, I have no desire whatsoever to be white.

I'm sure the temptation was great to try to "pass" during Jim Crow times, but as the saying goes "If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything".

[Kahlil]

Johanna:

We REEELY need your help here on the "White Side" of the Colour line! Here are your instructions:
http://www.jimcrowhistory.org/resources/lessonplans/hs_es_passing_narratives.htm

[Kahlil]

I'm happy to see that The Militant Black Man has decided to join the Fray!
This reminds me of the battlefield glories of The Haitian Revolution! 1LUV!

[Kahlil]

wlmoore, it 's TRUE, Man!!!

Peace,

'Lil

Steve Harvey said it best about light skin people right here:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=y0eopj76j4I

[g495]

To Posted: August 16, 2007 at 12:06 PM

Why does one skin color have to be superior over the other?

[g495]

To Posted: August 16, 2007 at 12:06 PM

Why does one skin color have to be superior over the other?

[Posted by:]

light skin men are soft.
Black skin will always be superior to light skin. Dont get it twisted. We strike fear in you half breeds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbCDfh2i45Y&NR=1

[Fanshen]

"Mixed Men are soft," but you chose not to write your name. How do you define 'soft'?

[Johanna Hyman]

Wlmoore, Thanks sweetie! Right back at ya.

[wlmoore]

Kahlil, that tattoo bit blows my mind. Truly tragic.

[wlmoore]

Dave, aww man, you want me to do homework? :) I don't know if the brown paper bag test is fact or fiction, but for sure it's a widespread well-known metaphor for colorism which is very real. Here's a citation for you:

Color discrimination in employment seems to be on the rise. In Fiscal Year 1992, EEOC received 374 charges alleging color-based discrimination. By Fiscal Year 2006, charge-filings alleging color discrimination increased to 1,241. A recent study conducted by a Vanderbilt University professor “found that those with lighter skin earn on average 8 to 15 percent more than immigrants with the darkest skin tone -- even when taking into account education and language proficiency. This trend continued even when comparing people of the same race or ethnicity.” [3] Similarly, a 2006 University of Georgia survey revealed that a light-skinned Black male with only a Bachelor's degree and basic work experience would be preferred over a dark-skinned Black male with an MBA and past managerial positions. However, in the case of Black female applicants seeking a job, “the more qualified or experienced darker-skinned woman got it, but if the qualifications were identical, the lighter-skinned woman was preferred."[4]

http://www.eeoc.gov/initiatives/e-race/why_e-race.html

And that's the Gub-mint!

I hear you re Mixed vs. European phenotypes. That's a great and important point. I suppose the question is, do these LSGH posters post the same comments to "White Chicks Chat" forums? We know they claim superiority over the Black phenotype; do they feel superior or inferior to the White phenotype?

I really enjoy calling in to the show, and the Mixed Men last time were great guests. It's wonderful to see how it's continuing to grow!

[wlmoore]

Cheers, Johanna! Don't you dare let anybody run you out of here. We value your voice.

[Kahlil]

we should consider ourselves lucky; in the prison system brothers are FORCED to choose a side:
u ain't seen NUTHIN' 'til u seen a legitimate "light-skinned brotha", proudly rockin' a swastika!

By the way, for those interested, the Charles Chestnutt novel is entitled "The Wife of His Youth".

[Dave]

Wlmoore, I'd like to see a solid historical investigation of whether the "paper bag test" is an apocryphal myth. The most frequently cited evidence is a line in a fictional novel by Charles Chestnutt. I'm leaning towards the belief that the "paper bag test" is myth not grounded in the best historical evidence -and as you imply wlmoore, I think it's a myth that seems tailored to make organizing for mixed/middle phenotype people more difficult, by tainting it.

Separately, the concept of LSGH doesn't seem to be promoting the supremacy of a mixture of phenotypes, but rather of the european phenotype. A supremacism promoting of a mixture of phenotypes would elevate the middle complexion and hair texture, rather than either the european or the sub-saharan african archetypes.

Btw, great call in to the show Wednesday, Wlmoore! As a long time NPR and talk radio listener, it's great and surreal to hear a live talk show (with callers!) featuring mixed folks.

[Kahlil]

*sigh*

[Kahlil]

"LSGH" was initially posted as a slogan of pride, I son't think any of us really anticipated the supremacist onslaught which soon followed. Let's not confuse Pride & Prejudice.

[Posted by:]

All yall light skin half-breeds are wack!
Black is better. That's why we talk behind yalls backs. You will never fit in with the Black community.
And you light skin men are SOFT.

[Johanna Hyman]

THANK YOU to Megan, Victoria, Dave, g459 and Wlmoore!!!! You give me hope. If it weren't for people like you who have integrity, intelligence and heart, I indeed would not want to be involved with this site. I'm so glad that the majority of us seem to be on the same page.

And to Monique, Sarita and Pia, all I can say is that I SINCERELY feel sorry for you because your minds are just so small. Thats all you've accomplished as far as I'm concerned.

[Megan]

First of all, I think the term LSGH is absolutely ridiculous. Both terms "light skin" and "good hair" are subjective and do nothing to describe how attractive a person is. I am mixed and look racially ambiguous, but this doesn't mean I am better (or worse) than my darker complexioned cousin. I am all for creating a positive mixed identity, but please stop embarrassing the multiracial community with these "light skin and good hair makes us better" comments. Statements like these are the very reason tension still exists between biracials monoracials. I know that these comments are coming from a place of hurt, and I have experienced it just as much as any biracial person at the hands of the Black community; but no matter what is done to me,I will never stoop to a negative level and try to make myself feel better by knocking others down. Honestly, I feel just as offended when I see comments about LSGH being better as I do when I see black/white supremacist comments. On a final note, it is my personal observation that only less educated people tend to focus to intensely on surface qualities like hair texture and skin tone. There is so much more to life than dwelling on outward appearances, like being kind to people, trying new things and just living. My sense of mixed pride has nothing to do with the way I look or how others see me, it is due to the fact that I can relate to almost all groups of people and have had the unique experience of not really feeling like a member of one particular race, just the human one.

[Megan]

First of all, I think the term LSGH is absolutely ridiculous. Both terms "light skin" and "good hair" are subjective and do nothing to describe how attractive a person is. I am mixed and look racially ambiguous, but this doesn't mean I am better (or worse) than my darker complexioned cousin. I am all for creating a positive mixed identity, but please stop embarrassing the multiracial community with these "light skin and good hair makes us better" comments. Statements like these are the very reason tension still exists between biracials monoracials. I know that these comments are coming from a place of hurt, and I have experienced it just as much as any biracial person at the hands of the Black community; but no matter what is done to me,I will never stoop to a negative level and try to make myself feel better by knocking others down. Honestly, I feel just as offended when I see comments about LSGH being better as I do when I see black/white supremacist comments. On a final note, it is my personal observation that only less educated people tend to focus to intensely on surface qualities like hair texture and skin tone. There is so much more to life than dwelling on outward appearances, like being kind to people, trying new things and just living. My sense of mixed pride has nothing to do with the way I look or how others see me, it is due to the fact that I can relate to almost all groups of people and have had the unique experience of not really feeling like a member of one particular race, just the human one.

[wlmoore]

Thanks, Dave. The brown paper bag test is a great example of something which originated from White Supremacy(*) as you say, but appears to have been reclaimed by some Light-skinned folks as a new symbol of Mixed Supremacy pride and empowerment. See its use in the LSGH and Pretty Yellow posts from August 14 above. That's what I meant by Mixed Supremacy appearing to borrow from White Supremacy.

Now I'm all for reappropriation in principle. The prickly problem with Mixed Supremacy is that it's really really hard to express pride without appearing to put Black folks down because of the White Supremacist legacy. Some folks manage to walk this tightrope, but others are less surgical and cause offense.

----------
* What makes it so particularly perverted is that the test is something Blacks perpetrated on ourselves under the White supremacist regime.

[Dave]

wlmoore,
Great post. Although I think a paper bag test (weirdly, doesn't seem to be much cited historical evidence it was ever actually used) falls more under white supremacy than mixed supremacy, since "white" people would pass it over mixed people. I think mixed supremacy would elevate mixedness over monoracialness, and being brown/beige and curley-haired, over being light or dark, and over being either straight or afro-textured haired.

[Kahlil's Hippie Side]

"Le-et's u-uniiite 2-nite
We-e-e-e shoul-dn't fite
E-e-embraaace u tite
Le-et's u-uniiite 2-nite"
(One hand Loves the other)

-from "Unison" by BJÖRK

[Kahlil]

damn rite! LMAO!...
it's interesting, mate...
growing up on South Side Chgo., one is subject to Militant tactics regardless of race.

[wlmoore]

Back atcha, Kahlil. You started it, you know! :)

[Kahlil]

Thanx wlmoore!...RESPECT!

[wlmoore]

Definitely a couple posts smell like trolls but I can't prove it, so for now I take everyone at their word.

This has been quite a ride and my eyes have been opened. I like things nice and simple, so here's my new model for different people's views on the relative merits of different racial groups: Black, White, Mixed (only three to keep it simple). For each view, race groups are listed in priority order.

A) White Supremacy
1. White
2. Mixed
3. Black

"If you're White, you're alright. If you're Black, stay back."

Fortunately this view is not espoused in these posts because they would not be welcome. I include it because this is the view which historically has caused so much devastation and misery and more to the point, has driven wedges among the 3 groups and played serious mindgames on the Mixed group caught in the middle.

B) Black Supremacy
1. Black
2. Mixed
3. White

"The Blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice."

Most famously the "Black is Beautiful" movement in the 60's and 70's. On the whole necessary and beneficial for Blacks to rebuild the self-esteem stripped away by White Supremacy, but alienating to Mixed folks who were unfairly expected to pick sides.

C) Mixed Supremacy
1. Mixed
2. Black, White (in alphabetical order)

"Do you pass the paper bag test?"

This is the LSGH movement voiced here. Born from backlash to White Supremacy and Black Supremacy and their shabby or neglectful treatment of Mixed folks. Startling and baffling to Blacks and Whites who didn't see it coming, and somewhat offensive when it appears to borrow from White Supremacy, but understandable and maybe inevitable when viewed as an analog to Black Supremacy. LSGH Militants, go on and do what you gotta do. I wish you well and hope you find peace. Please learn from Black history so no one gets hurt this time.

D) Egalitarianism
1. Black, Mixed, White (in alphabetical order)

"I have a dream..."

The view that an individual's race does not make her better than another, i.e. the debunking of any racial supremacy. This is our stated national ideal and was the general tone of all the discussions on this site until the Mixed Supremacists jumped in and made a cannonball splash. There's some friction here between Egalitarianists and Mixed Supremacists, but I think if we all recognize that our views are not incompatible, we can all just get along. Just understand and respect where that opinion is coming from.

These views are points on a spectrum. I myself fall somewhere in between Black Supremacy and Egalitarianism. I bristle when someone says light skin is better, but I'll get over it.

Not trying to play the peacemaker, just trying to make some sense of what I see here.

[g459]

to Sarita:

Yes it is arrogance when it is implied that light skin is indicated of having mixed ancestry. LSGH what's to pull out the paper back, you promote exclusive pride in light skinned in relation to being of mixed ancestry...There is no difference between that and what's been happening withing the Black race. The attitudes harbor elitism and don't necessarily help in promoting truth in regards to mixed race ancestry, which has produced every combination of physical traits known to mankind.

[Kahlil]

That's GOOD observation, Dave! ~;

[Kahlil]

Victoria WRONGLY states, "These are all simply physical things that are meaningless compared to how we live our lives and treat each other."

PUH-LEEEZE!!! This is AMERIKA! Looks are EVERTHING!!!

[Kahlil]

"U GO MONIQUE!!!"