LibraryScenariosHow to respond to backhanded racial compliments
Scenario

How to respond to backhanded racial compliments

My college roommate told me I'm not like other Black people and meant it as a compliment.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Well-intentioned praise based on racial stereotypes forces individuals to choose between acceptance and advocacy.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Racial identity — lived experience?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.