I have a question that has to do with race?

Question

I am black and white. My father is white and my mother is light skinned. I look white. A large % people can't tell I'm part black at all. My father is a very successful businessman who beat my Mom and left when I was a child. I was raised by my Mom only so although I look white, culturally I am very black in a lot of ways. I have found it very hard getting ahead in the business world despite my father is on the board of directors at the largest corporation in the world. I have been told that I lack professionalism but I am very confused and personally I feel that the fact that I look caucasian but was raised by a black woman very much plays into how people judge me for work and otherwise. What do you guys think?

Answer 1

If you speak as well as you write, I don't understand why anyone would question your professional abilities. So I'm wondering if there isn't something else/more here.

Answer 2

O.k please do not take this the wrong way. Do not think that you can not get a head because you are black you do not even look black. One of the top sales man in my area is black. It is probally your professionalism like everyone has told you. It is always easier to play the race card because that is something you can't change but lack of education or bussines since or your personality is, and professionalism is all you and is your responsibility to change and can be done. You sound like a smart person who's had a tough life take what theyy tell you and work on it and I'am positive you will find a job.

Answer 3

If you're working at your dad's firm, you should leave and strike out on your own.
It might be that people there know you as your dad's son, that's why you are not getting the credit and recognition you deserve for your work efforts.

Racism is always a social issue. That doesn't mean racism is and always is the issue for you. You gotta shake off the idea that you're part black, change a new environment maybe, and pour all your energies into your work. Sooner or later, things will start looking up.

Answer 4

well if u look white im not really sure how they would know unless they saw u mom and maybe ur looking in all the wrong places but u cant be sure to get in because of who ur dad is by the way the might not know that and if u say that maybe they think either she is lying or who cares hwo ur daddy is this is my bussiness just keep looking and dont worry about it i hope everything works out ok :) and u sound oh so smart dont beat ur self up about it i think u seem terrific and white/ black peaople have beautiful hair i hope again that everything goes well i think u of all people desearve it :)

Answer 5

I don't think race matters, especially when no one can tell the difference with you. How would these people know you were raised by a black woman anyway? Maybe you should study people who act professionally, and see what you are doing that is different.

Answer 6

You are most likely right. And there are people who you can talk to, because it isn't legal to bias on race. I think a lot of people only think that black people are only good at 3 things, sports, singing, and gangs. I am not black obviously, but I have a friend in the same situation as you, and a lot of people are surprised when she doesn't talk in slang terms, and listen to rap, and cuss, and things like that. I would definately hire you....but I don't really have that authority.

Answer 7

Mostly it doesn't matter, as long as your smart and on time and can do your job then your prefect. People don't care about color, they care about the job getting done. I mean, there are people out there that are racist pricks, but ignore them. Brush it off for me. When it comes to things like this, or something thats bothering me I look towards jah. I'm catholic, but I have a friend who has beliefs in rastafarian culture and it's helped me threw so many things in my life. Maybe it can help you..please don't feel bad about who you are or who raised you or who left you. Who are you today? thats what matters, be strong. good luck

Answer 8

This may be more in your own mind than factual. One of the most respected and successful people I know is a partner of mine and is black as you can get. I'm white and Native American. He outdoes in everything.

The world has changed, yes there's small minded people. Just be the best you can be. stop dwelling on what others may think. That's their problem, don't make it yours.

good luck

Answer 9

i think that if you look white, but lack professionalism, you have your answer. In this case, it doesnt seems to have to do with what you actually are since people cant tell. When people meet you, they see you at face value, not by who your parents are. Maybe it is your mannerisms, or the way that you carry or present yourself that is giving the impression that you lack professionalism?

Answer 10

I think you are probably right but I wouldn't let discrimination get in your way. If it wasn't your skin color or upbringing, they would find something else to discriminate against. People seem to like to be greater than or less than this and that.
Don't count on your Dad's reputation to help you. If it does then great but I wouldn't bet on it.
I would play the political game like you were a lone wolf. That way if you get any help or meet any friends on your way up you will be unexpectedly pleased.


God Bless ya!

Answer 11

I have a granddaughter who is bi-racial also. I am very concerned about her future and how others will treat her. She is only 2 now, but so many people are prejudice and judge others solely on their appearances and race. I don't believe this will ever change. I can only wish the best for you and hope that you realize that who we are depends on how we cope with situations that are not under our control. We cannot control others, only ourselves.