I go to a school that is 85% white, 15% minorities. Of that 15%, 11% of the students are black. As a student that takes Honors and AP classes, I'm usually the only African American. Because of this, I experience racism from both black, and white students. The other day in AP Chemistry, a boy told me that I wasn't that smart "because I was black." I couldn't believe that he had the audacity to say that to me, because I am first of all, in AP Chemistry, and second of all, the youngest student in the class. He had no right to say that to me. It is always awkward in history class whenever we talk about slavery, or of course the newest topic, Obama for president. Whenever we talk about subjects like this, I can always feel the whole class staring at me. They automatically assume that all of my ancestors were slaves, (which isn't true because I am 25% Scottish, and 25% Indian), and they look at me like I should be able to give insight on the topic. Which I can't. BECAUSE I'M NOT A SLAVE. and I shouldn't be judged on my skin color. On top of feeling awkward in my classes, I experience the same thing from the black students. Since I am in advanced classes, and I use correct grammar, I am often called "white" or an "oreo cookie". I wear brands such as Juicy Couture, and American Eagle, not Baby Phat and Apple Bottoms like many African Americans do. Because of this, I am also called the "rich girl". I don't condone the use of the word "nigga" no matter what race the person is. It is a derogatory term, I don't think that it should be used. I am judged for hanging out with white girls, and talking to white boys. I'm judged for my vernacular, my dress, my everything.
One day, I hope that African Americans won't be judged for sounding like they are educated, for trying in school, for dressing the way they want to dress, for being in interracial relationships, for being who they are.
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