swirlspice

racialicious:

racismschool:

Ever been described as “Aggressive” when you feel like you’ve been going out of your way to keep your cool? Yes, it’s another tool of the racist. 

This one took me years to figure out. 

When I moved to the all white school, people (some that I didn’t even know) would walk up to me and say “I’m not scared of you.” This was the strangest thing in the world to me. I couldn’t understand it. At the time, I would always just say “Um…okaaaay?” Then just move on in complete confusion. Now I know why. It’s because “Black people are angry.” 

Not only are we seen as angry aggressors, this idea is often encouraged in everyday life. The media, TV and movies play a huge role in continuing this myth. The myth (like many racist myths) is set up in a way to penalize us for reacting to the way we are being treated. 

Ever called someone on being a racist and heard “You are overreacting?” Yes, that’s what it’s about. If you are seen as the angry aggressor, the overreactor and the antagonist at all times, they can never be wrong. It will always be your fault. You will always be the one “Who started it.” They have a way out.

The other problem with this myth is that it often opens the door for true aggression. White people are often overly aggressive towards black people. They seem to feel the need to “Put us in our place.” Any reaction from us will lead to a barrage of accusations of “Overreaction.” Then, they will be justified and we will be vilified. 

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, it’s a genius system.

Broken down so it’ll forever stay broke.