To Whom it May Concern :: A Letter from a Scared Woman of Color

I am a woman of color.

The last week in our world has been the most terrifying that it has ever been for me. Over the last year of my life, I have felt that racial injustice has plagued it as recurring theme. It is not a feeling that I welcome. I have dealt with it within my own family, employers, and so-called friends.

In past few days, I have watched the death of an unarmed, non-violent black man. I have seen a white woman weaponize her tears and fear while calling the police on a black man, the tweets inciting violence from our nation’s leader, and peaceful protesters run over in the streets. I have been appalled at the gall of white people boldly expressing their racist views in public forums and then try to retract them when faced with facts.

I do not want to say that I have not been affected by these things in the past. I believe that after the events that I have experienced first-hand and seeing these injustices has created a level outrage that I have never felt before. I am tired, y’all. Physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. In addition to being tired, I am so scared.

Scared that this is the beginning of something bigger than we have ever had in our history as a country. Scared that beyond the usual strange looks my husband and I get (he is white), that we will be physically assaulted in the streets. Scared that my biracial daughter and myself are not safe to leave our home. Scared for the other members of my family that live in cities that have had violent protests.

I have cried many times in my husband’s arms this week. Unfortunately, if you are not a person of color, it is extremely hard to understand these fears. In my head, the fear almost feels irrational because no one knows what will happen, but it is legitimate at the same time.

My husband has listened while I have vented. We have discussed the events. We have made contingency plans.

I want to say that I see and appreciate all our allies. I see you educating yourselves and others. I see you speaking out. I see you protesting. I see you making the efforts to teach your littles.  I see you and I thank you.

Peace & Love,

A Scared Woman of Color

 

Vianca Price
Vianca is a very social Afro Latina, millennial mom, wife and grandma. She hails from a small town in Central Florida and landed in Southeast Louisiana purely by accident. She has lived a whirlwind life and is a very proud woman in long term recovery from drugs and alcohol. She and her husband, Will, currently reside in Ponchatoula with their youngest daughter, Selena (the mini) and their three dogs. Vianca enjoys all the wonderful events Louisiana living has to offer. She and her mini can usually be found at any number of local events, living their best lives. She is very passionate about health and wellness journeys, which led her to starting her own meal prep service, Keto Kween Vee. Her mission in life is to help others.

2 COMMENTS

  1. Vianca, thank you so much for sharing. I was reflecting last night and recognized how fearful I am as well. I am mixed white/Latina and my daughter’s father is African American. I learned long ago how being able to pass for “white” protects me but not my brown or black brothers and sisters and now my daughter. How do you approach this with your daughter? I have discussed some of what has happened and why but am trying to tread carefully.

    • Hi there!
      My daughter is 10 and unfortunately has been with me and witnessed some of my own experiences first hand. We always talk about it afterward. Her thoughts are that it is stupid that people are this way or treat people differently based on skin color. I try to address things with her as they come, in an age appropriate way, but truthfully she is wise beyond her years when it comes to this.

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