Member-only story
Stop scaring yourself in my beautiful black reflection
I am 5'3'’, medium build, with chocolate skin. In other words, a threat. Sometimes my hair is out big. In public places, like the park, standing behind someone in line, browsing in stores, and ordering food in restaurants. Even in my own property, you look at me and think something’s amiss. It’s like you’ve seen a bogeywoman, a black one with sticky fingers, a frightening thief-to-be. I’m after your cellphone, the sidewalk, your spare change, your security. I’m a menace, so watch out. But I’m not gonna smile, and wave to make you feel better because I exist and you don’t like it. I’m gonna smile because I am black and proud. Does that scare you? Go ‘head on with that mess. I say “Boo!”
To all those who clutched their cellphones lying on their hipstery, glass-jar laden, wooden tables when I came in to order a sandwich, just like you, I say “Boo!”
To the lady who locked her car door when I passed her, as I walked through cars waiting at the traffic light, I say “Boo!”
To the lady who kept looking over her shoulder at me in line. Yes, I am here to get my computer checked, too. Stop checking me. I say, “Boo!”
To the pet store owner, backpack shop attendant, clothes department cashier, bookstore clerk, stationary store worker, souvenir store employee who follows me…
