Zimmerman’s Valid Fear

“I’m gon’ put some lead in him,” Mr. Williams says. His raucous laugh holds no mirth, but his belly shakes a little beneath his hands. “If I catch ’em in my yard, I’ma beat the piss out of ’em!” “Mhmm. I ain’t got too good an aim, so I’ma buy me one of them shotguns.Continue reading “Zimmerman’s Valid Fear”

A Racist Apologizes

Dear Offended Black People: I meant exactly what you thought I meant when the word nigger leapt from my mouth. It did not escape. It did not slip out. I launched it with all the force my vocal chords could muster. I wanted it to stick.  If I was sorry for offending you, I wouldContinue reading “A Racist Apologizes”

On the Flipside…2 Chainz May Be Right

Every once in a while, I listen to the point of view of someone who I’m predisposed to ignore and I am pleasantly surprised. This happened to me yesterday evening when the song “Feds Watching” by rapper 2 Chainz (formerly known as Tity Boi) came on the radio. Honestly, I’m not a big fan ofContinue reading “On the Flipside…2 Chainz May Be Right”

Afros and Victory Gardens

I never thought the final frontier would be weave. There was never any war; but if there was one, then surely, we have won it. Seven years ago, I joined a then-small community of women who braved hard stares, insults, overt and covert shade thrown–just because they cut their hair and went natural. Whether weContinue reading “Afros and Victory Gardens”