Have you ever felt like when you were the only one of your race in a certain area, you represent your race?

Question

Like, when im in the subway, I would be the only black guy so i feel like i have to be as presentable/positive as possible becasue im already aware of the stigma against black people in general.

So just when i feel like i seem like a decent person representing my race, another black guy comes out of no where smelling like alcholhol, comes stumbling around and start begging other people for food or change.

it really pisses me off becasue i felt like it just negated everything i was trying to do.

am i the only one who feels this way, or is it just me.

Answer 1

Yeah, it's like when I go to Iraq (I'm white), and try to help some local people bury their dead, George Bush flies in and kills a bunch more.

Really, really frustrating.

Answer 2

I've certainly been in situations like that, but I don't feel that I'm the representative of my race when things like that happen. I feel like anyone who would think less of me because they saw another black person who didn't appear as well behaved isn't someone I'd respect anyway.

I know that many people do think that way, and there are lots of people who have negative views of black people because of the images they've seen or even experiences they've had. But frankly, my family is from Alabama and can recount a great many very negative experiences with whites over their lives. But I have yet to meet a single white person who accepts that they are to be judged by the worst behaviors of other whites. They expect to be judged as individuals. So do I.

Answer 3

it happens to everyone in all kinds of situations with every race. I'm your classic upper class teenage chick with a cell phone and a nice car and two parents who cater to her needs at every turn. I work in a mall food court and as a part-time custodian and I feel constant pressure to somehow prove to my co-workers, all older hispanic and black women, that not all young white chicks are rude, careless, inconsiderate, and oblivious to other people around them.
I find it extremely embarssing when I see some little snot cutting people off in her hot car, talking on her cell phone too loud in public places, and making a scene in a store over the smallest thing. I wish there weren't so many stereotypes laid on people, but what's worse is when people fit them so perfectly.

Sadly, it's no wonder the stereotypes exist when there are still enough black guys who beg for cash on the subway, self-centered blonde chicks flaunting their too-hot attitudes, and countless other perfect cookie-cutter examples of what everyone else thinks already.

I suppose this means we must stick it out and be nice, upstanding people, regardless of whether what shade of brown, green, purple or blue we may be.

Answer 4

No you are not the only one. In class I have been the only black person at times and my professor would always say "my sister understands what I'm talking about." First I had to explain that I don't speak for all black people, just myself. Then I had to explain that me and my teacher are not related and using the term "my sister" is just his way of referring to me at times without using my name. After that lets just say I was just as pissed as you.

Answer 5

I feel the same way.
I think that people who care about making a good impression and trying to let the world know what their race is all about would probably all feel this way.

Answer 6

i think in those situations you feel a bit unfortable..like which one of these dont belong...so you feel like everyone is looking at you, but i assure you that its just your subconscience getting the best of you..keep being a good person and dont worry what you think others are thinking...God Bless

Answer 7

thats really interesting!! i dont feel like that.

I guess all you need to do is represent yourself and show them that you're a good guy, thats all that matters. not what somebody else does.

Answer 8

Totally, especially at work.