Blackness Our Perspective: The biracial side of Blackness 

As our Black History Month discussion progresses, we shift the dialogue to how biracial people define their cultural identities. Living in a nation that once implied that one drop of Black blood made you a Black person, navigating a mixed heritage may present unique societal and individual challenges. Among those challenges are identity issues: & (1) Some people of mixed heritage may struggle with their sense of identity. Some may even feel disconnected from both sides of their heritage, leading to a search for belonging and acceptance. (2) Microaggressions and racism: Mixed-race individuals, particularly those with a Black parent, may face microaggressions (indirect, subtle, or unintentional discrimination against members of a marginalized group) and discrimination from within and outside their communities. This can include racial profiling, stereotyping and prejudice. (3) Family dynamics: Multiracial families may experience internal tensions related to cultural differences, societal perceptions, and family expectations. (4) Lack of representation: Mixed-race individuals often find it difficult to find relatable role models in media, literature, and other forms of pop culture. For example, Bob Marley is one of the more recognized artists, living or dead. Rarely is he recognized at first glance as a biracial individual. With his powerful and...