“Mommy, that man’s skin is black!” Several people, including the black man, turn to look. How do you imagine the mother would respond? Most people would immediately put their finger to their mouth and say, “Shush!” When white people are asked what the mother might be feeling, most agree that she is likely to feel anxiety, tension, and embarrassment. Indeed, many of us have had similar experiences wherein the message was clear: we should not talk openly about race.
I experience this with Carlito and I was mortified, I asked him "What are we?!"but in a tone of panic. If I could experience it again, I would say "Yes, she is darker than us and she is beautiful." as well as smile at the person.
