African American Vignette #6


An African American psychologist was the keynote speaker at a professional conference for psychologists. Afterwards several psychologists were sitting together in the cafeteria eating lunch and discussing his speech. “I thought he was very articulate,” commented one of the white psychologists. “Yes, and he carried himself in such a dignified manner,” responded another.



Commentary to African American Vignette #6

You might be wondering, “What in world can be wrong with complimenting this black speaker?” Maybe nothing is wrong.  But sometimes these kinds of comments express a subtle element of surprise - a surprise based on the belief that this black person is an exception.  He doesn’t fit our stereotype of the black male.  When I become aware of this kind of reaction in myself, I (gently) ask myself questions like, “Why wouldn’t he be dignified?” or “Would I make this kind of comment if the person were white?”

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