LibraryScenariosWhen your white parent uses problematic language about your appearance
Scenario

When your white parent uses problematic language about your appearance

My white mom keeps telling people I'm 'exotic looking' when she introduces me and I die a little inside every time but don't know how to tell her it makes me feel like a zoo animal.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

The language of love can carry the embedded violence of othering, even from those closest to us.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Mixed-race identity and belonging?”

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