Unlike some of our melanin-challenged folks, a lot of AA are not molded to think that they deserve to be academically successful. Oh, we might be taught that we can be successful with a basketball or a mic in our hand, but not a book. I think a lot of young working AA's probaly can relate to the vingrettes listed. I think that a lot of us have not been taught how to work in a professional "melanin challenged" environment, without comprimising our cultural identity and without feeling inadequate.
I can really relate to Clarice. When I got my first executive position, in the beginning I was kind of shy, but I always focused on the fact that I am where I am today only because of two things: (1)GOD's grace and mercy (2) my african american elders that paved the way. Now, I am always "in the mix" of the daily business, have become eloquently out-spoken, and wear my suits everyday (and Lord knows that I get some tired of wearing stockings, but I digress). I have come to the realization that what I do, what I wear, and how I act is important. To some melanin-challenged folks, I am the only exposure to an African American that they might have.
But all that aside, I choose to "be out front" for really only one reason........BECAUSE I HAVE WORKED HARD AND DESERVE TO BE HERE!!!! .
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