MixedRoots

Genetic Blend

2010-08-20T01:35:00.002-04:00

Gabrielle Anwar says she's from England, but

"My genetic blend is little (Asian) Indian and British."

MultiRacial Population Growing

2009-05-28T22:27:00.003-04:00

Interesting article on Multiracial, mixed-race population growing.

WASHINGTON – Multiracial Americans have become the fastest growing demographic group, wielding an impact on minority growth that challenges traditional notions of race.

The number of multiracial people rose 3.4 percent last year to about 5.2 million, according to the latest census estimates. First given the option in 2000, Americans who check more than one box for race on census surveys have jumped by 33 percent and now make up 5 percent of the minority population — with millions more believed to be uncounted.

Demographers attributed the recent population growth to more social acceptance and slowing immigration. They cited in particular the high public profiles of Tiger Woods and President Barack Obama, a self-described "mutt," who are having an effect on those who might self-identify as multiracial.

Population figures as of July 2008 show that California, Texas, New York and Florida had the most multiracial people, due partly to higher numbers of second- and later-generation immigrants who are more likely to "marry out." Measured by percentages, Hawaii ranked first with nearly 1 in 5 residents who were multiracial, followed by Alaska and Oklahoma, both at roughly 4 percent.

Utah had the highest growth rate of multiracial people in 2008 compared to the previous year, a reflection of increasing social openness in a mostly white state. READ COMPLETE ARTICLE

Robin Thicke Continued.....

2009-05-04T05:30:00.008-04:00

Robin Thicke Continued...

I've blogged about this artist previously

(Robin Thicke Mixed Experience). I love his music and his band is great. I've seen him perform live four times in less than 2 two years. Each time he tours its with someone great.

Beyonce, Mary J and Jennifer Hudson. I saw the most recent show twice in two different cities- one in the east and the other on the west coast. There's not ONE song I don't like, but I particularly love 'Dreamworld'.

I met him twice and was also invited to be one of his guests at his after-party, right at his table after one of the shows. It was fun, I even met his dad, Alan (from the 80's hit TV show, Growing Pains) LoL

I'll post more images another time. Stay tuned!

ReelMIXED Film Festival ™

2009-04-19T00:41:00.006-04:00

Check out one of the great distractions that has kept me from blogging.

ReelMIXED Film Festival™

A Cultural Exchange

June 12-14, 2009

ReelMIXED was introduced in 2007 in response to the lingering segregation in the Metro-Detroit region. The RMFF was founded to create an annual celebration of ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious diversity through film, arts, culture, and cuisine. RMFF was also founded to be a progressive, socially conscious, and purposeful fun festival that provides opportunities for both established and emerging talent to share and showcase their works. RMFF aims to offer something for the entire family. In addition to hosting film screenings, this festival includes various art forms including artists’ exhibits, literary readings, dance/musical performances, workshops, and a Children’s Zone. Films screened vary in genre and topic and intend to represent a variety of cultures, races, and religions via the subject matter, director, or screenwriter, as well as highlight issues of civil rights, humanity, race, ethnicity, religion, and the mixed-race experience.

Busy... but back!

2009-03-12T23:22:00.002-04:00

Whoa! Whoa, Whoa. Talk about busy, yeah that's been me, Ms busy bee.

Working on big projects. But look what I found the other day. Laura Izibor. A biracial (Irish/Nigerian) singer/musician to watch out for. Some say like Aretha, Alicia Keys. I don't hear that AT ALL.

I say compare to Adele, Joss Stone, or even Jill Scott, maybe even Duffy.

CHECK OUT LAURA IZIBOR!

The Greatest!!!

2009-01-17T22:31:00.008-05:00

The Greatest...Muhammad Ali

The only person living that I would be in awe of upon meeting is... the one, the only, the great, Muhammad Ali. I think he was and is phenomenal. His work ethic, his integrity, his dedication to his faith & humanity as well as his confidence is amazing.

I have a deep endearing respect for him and I wish him the very best on this day

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Bro. Muhammad Ali!

Etta James

2009-01-12T19:35:00.008-05:00

Etta James a legendary Songstress....

Just around the time Cadillac Records was due to hit the big screen - while I was traveling- I heard a news report that Etta James had passed away. I've searched the internet recently and I don't see any news whatsoever that she has died. So I guess it was a mis-report of misinformation.

I learned of Ms. James through my mother years and years ago. As many young women, I

decided that I would dance to her song "At Last" at my wedding. I did just that!

This is the month of her birth (Jan. 25, 1938), so I thought it fitting to note her in my blog.

She was born Jamesetta Hawkins in LA, California. According to wikipedia, Dorothy, her mother was African-American and just fourteen years of age and not married when Etta was born. Etta's father, Rudolph "Minnesota Fats" Wanderone was a Caucasian pool player and he allegedly paid them support money on the condition that they kept his paternity a secret.

Ms. James is a multi-Grammy award winner and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993 and into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2001 and into the Grammy Hall of Fame both in 1999 and in 2008!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MS. ETTA JAMES!!!!

Evolution of Attitudes

2008-12-02T14:34:00.005-05:00

Images--From left to right: by Itsuo Inouye, AP; Travis Lindquist, Getty Images;

Sara D. Davis, Getty Images; Nathan Strange, AP; Kathy Willens, AP

Evolution of Attitudes

This isn't a new article, but it's a keeper. Among other interesting points, a biracial woman

shares how sometimes when she's out and about with her mixed-race twin sons, she is sometimes asked "Are you the nanny?" Read the USA Today article

Image by Jacquelyn Martin, AP

A Changing Nation...

2008-11-18T16:43:00.000-05:00

A Changing Nation...

This is an interesting profile on a family living in Virginia. They are an inter-racial family with a background not too unlike President-elect Barack Obama's.

enjoy.....

Half-caste children: The story is similar around the world

2008-11-11T02:05:00.006-05:00

Half-Cast Children: The Story is Similar Around the World

I had planned to scan my actual newspaper article of this earlier this year. Well you know what happens with little bits of paper when you have a toddler. So it crossed my mind again today so I thought I'd share this online article from the Guardian in the UK

The mixed children in Australia were taken - STOLEN- from their mother's and dopted into white families. The government apparently thought it was a good idea to raise the children in "white enviornments" essentially stripping them of their (full) culture and the loving arms of their mothers. It's just sad.

Listen to this: in one mixed-race Australian's own words
'We lost our heritage, we lost everything'
Link to this audio

Here is another fascinating read on this issue of mixed children or half-castes being in between two worlds and the society trying to sort out what their fortune or misfortune should be.

School Selections: A parent's prerogative

2008-11-10T21:26:00.000-05:00

School Selections: A parent's prerogative

What's the big deal about where the Obama children will attend school. The girls currently attend a private school. Mr. President- elect- Barack himself attended a private school, both he and (first lady to-be) Michelle went to an elite institution for higher education. So come on people, give it a rest already.

I just hope there's not a paparazzi madness on the girls

first day of school. We don't want the girls experiencing what Amy Carter experienced.

Mutts Like Me

2008-11-09T02:04:00.001-05:00

Mutt Like Me (BBC)

Mutts Like Me

Mr. President makes this term sorta charming. :)

yeah, mutts like us.

Listen, if you're not mixed, please don't call me the "M" word. It's only endearing if you're mixed "like" me.

Still No Words...

2008-11-08T21:12:00.007-05:00

Still No Words...

I seriously am experiencing an overwhelming dose of "something" that I've never experienced before. I know I'm happy, elated and joyful- but this 'something' runs deeper, much deeper than these mere words. I may not be able to communicate my complete feelings into a few sentences or paragraphs for a another week, another month, a year or even my lifetime- But I'm happy. I always believed he would be elected. Truly... I'm not surprised by the outcome. I am just overwhelmed somehow by the reality of it and the energy that surrounds it.

Is this the beginning of a revival?

It's all quite intense for me in many ways. I find myself tearful when I think of it. I also smile on the inside as well as the outside. I said to my sister, "It's strange, I feel like people are being nice to me." Not specifically to me- well yes to me, but not because of something I've done. It's more-so the energy between people, folks seem to be more loving towards one another. Its as if some sort of barriers have been torn down. This is a phenomenal time. I'm so proud of this country. And furthermore...If I'm really being open and bearing my deepest thoughts when it comes to my mixed-race (black/white) heritage... I feel like I finally fit in this country.

Ok, so the barriers have been torn down, but if you know me, you know I'm thinking "ok they're torn down, but we've got to work and do our part in the change to sweep those barriers away." Don't let them clutter up our lives and be road blocks in our continued path towards a better nation. The work is not over people, this is just a huge inspired step, we must keep advocating for one another, we must continue to think and be positive, we must continue to be kind to one another. We must honor our blessings.

I'm blown over by the reaction around the world. I'm proud of President-Elect Obama. I loved that he noted "Out of Many We are One" That is a motto that I have loved for more than twenty years. I have shared my affinity for that motto in a previous post. I'm happy, happy, happy. It's amazing that someone who represents an oppressed -- once enslaved-- people is not representing our nation and by many accounts from abroad will now help to improve America's image in the eyes of others around the world.

Sidebar: I'm excited about Michelle Obama being the first-lady. What a woman. The standards that will be set are welcomed! Bring it Mrs. Obama.

As I sat down to mark my ballot I sensed a change was gonna come. I looked at the ballot and decided to save the best for last- my selection of Barack Obama as President of the UNITED States of America. I'm glad I had the presence of mind to captured the moment with my iphone camera. Speaking of capturing moments.... if you haven't seen the photos I personally shot of Barack Obama on the campaign trail, visit MixedRootsMovemement

Please enjoy this wonderful song (originally performed by Sam Cooke) recently remade by Seal

Here's a bonus... enjoy!

Vote However You Like Kids

2008-10-31T17:02:00.001-04:00

Vote However You Like Kids

I saw these children on CNN this week. It's a new take on the popular song by T.I.

Check it out!

Bravo Gen. Colin Powell!

2008-10-22T19:33:00.005-04:00

Bravo Gen. Colin Powell!

I'm not feeling celebratory because Gen. Powell endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for President of these UNITED states-- although I'm thrilled about it-- I'm actually delighted and thrilled that he spoke out, up and sensibly when he addressed a real issue that this country faces: A sweeping detest of Muslims.

We really need to move beyond this hatred. I'm so glad Powell commented on how members of the Republican party have been -wrongfully- permitted to suggest that there is something WRONG with being Muslim in this country. Enough already! Muslim and Terrorist are not synonymous. Muslims by their faith are required to be peaceful, caring citizens of the world.

The actions and beliefs of some do not represent all.

Powell reflected upon a photo he saw in a magazine photo-essay. Here's what he refered to.

I've been hammering this particular point from the beginning and I'm glad you pointed out that Obama, has crossed lines and has given us a more inclusive reach to what this country and the world should be about and Obama is demonstrating that.... All villages have value!

A Friday Music fest

2008-10-17T00:42:00.003-04:00

I saw Thicke in Vegas last year with the Beyonce Experience. (B performed insanely nonstop the entire time she was on stage. I was exhausted when B finished. I don't know how she does it. PHewwww. )

I also saw Thicke when he was in Detroit with MJB last month. MJB was stellar as usual.

The voice, the voice.

So enjoy... 'Can You Believe' & 'DreamWorld' good one for the times we're in, aye?

Obama Bucks? You've gotta be kidding!

2008-10-16T22:47:00.008-04:00

Obama Bucks? You've gotta be kidding!

Thanks to an Inland Republican's women's group (October GOP newsletter), we now know more racism and bigotry exists that we may have imagined. A phony $10 dollar bill (food stamp), shows Presidential Candidate Barack Obama surrounded by fried chicken, ribs, kool-aid and watermelon.

The organization's president, Diane Fedele, who published this stupidity says, she received it in an email from someone else, whose identity she will not disclose. She goes on to say to some degree that this depiction is in response to Obama's comment made during the summer that he, as an African-American "doesn't look like all those other presidents on the dollar bills." Fedele says, this is "strictly an attempt to point out the outrageousness of his statement" As for the items surrounding Obama's face on the dollar, Fedele says "I didn't see it the way it's being taken. I never connected. "It was just food to me. It didn't mean anything else"

Has she heard the expression..... Liar, liar. Pants on fire!

She's showing her true colors indeed.

Okay and if all this isn't enough. Here's what she said regarding the food stamp depiction.

"Obama talks about all those presidents that got their names on bills. If elected, what bill would he be on???? Food Stamps, what else!"

Okay this lady is off her rocker! I don't know what's the worst offense in this depiction. The stereotypical foods, the food stamps or Obama's face on a donkey's body. It's insane and anyone who thinks it's funny is pitiful.

When will the madness stop?

I dunno. It seems to be catching steam. Earlier in the week, the Sacramento Bee posted an image (they say they got from the Sacramento County GOP website) which showed Obama in a turban next to Osama bin Ladin. The caption: "The difference between Osama and Obama is just a little B. S." Including recommendations to "water board" Obama, What's this you ask.

Oh just a little TORTURE TECHNIQUE members of the GOP obviously would like to see happen to Barack.

What will happen to the offenders? If this sort of rhetoric was thrown around about anyone else, it would be a REAL issue. In this case, sad to see it's dealt with by saying "it's damaging"

To who? To what, the GOP?!!

I'm curious to know what will be done to folks who issue threats of torturing Barack Obama if he is the President of the United States. UNITED states I said. I think such threats against the President of the U.S. is punishable by law, isn't it?

to learn GOP member reaction, including African-American members....

Read (original) Full Article

What some people REALLY think about biracial people:

2008-10-15T19:17:00.001-04:00

What some people REALLY think about biracial people

Uncertainty About Racial Identity: Who says race isn't an issue?

This is why I do what I do. People, and yes, even some biracial people I've talked to, like to pretend race and being mixed-race is not an issue in this country "any longer." I know better. And the NY Times published a piece that confirms biracial people are still not accepted and biracials are still considered an enigma.

Read this, from the NY Times today, as evidence that the race issue is not going to fix itself. The year we're in is not going to fix it. I don't know what will, but I'm working myself ragged trying to make a difference on this race thang!

Inside the NY Times article you'll find these expressions:

"Don't create other breeds."

"You should be proud of what you are and not intermarry."

One man who said "I've always been against the blacks" had to admit now that now that he has three biracial children, he "found out they (biracial people) were human beings, too."

Thicke Mixed Experience: "Something Else"

2008-09-18T00:01:00.006-04:00

Thicke Mixed Experience:

"Something Else"

Robin Thicke

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love, love, love his music. I must say I was shocked to find out that all that soulful sound was coming out of the son of Alan Thicke -the dad on hit sitcom Growing Pains? Yup, that's right. Then I learned that both Robin's dad and mom were musically inclined. Another reminder that music, just like other things in life, knows no color, gender or ethnic background, the blessing of gift are sprinkled around the earth to who the creator wills. And it was willed that Robin have the gift of "soulful" sound.

Absolutely, I think this guy is brilliant. His music is-- in my opinion-- among the greats of the greatest. You already know what I mean if you've heard his music and you really know what I mean if you've see him on tour. If not, You'll see what I mean when you hear his music- I'll post a lil' treat here. He has written & produced music for Michael Jackson, Brandy, Christina Aguilera, Usher. If you were under a rock in 2006-2007 and you missed hearing this jam. Let me help you out with this video.

Oh, don't sleep, his new album SOMETHING ELSE drops this month!

This guy is the real real fareal deal.

He married his high school sweet heart, a racially mixed (black) woman --

The Stunning Paula Patton, an actress seen in movies with Denzel and Kevin Costner.

Selling Bigotry under political pretense

2008-09-15T13:33:00.002-04:00

Selling Bigotry under political pretense, calling it satire.

These two guys are just distasteful any way you look at it. And Lou Dobbs endorsed the product!! I guess that doesn't surprise me. This is a serious product laced with bigotry!

I really have no words beyond than to say...this is just another sad but true demonstration of the negative hateful energy that is thrust about. Do people really harbor so much negativity and hate within? If you read this post today, please do your part to tip the weight of energy towards positive today. Do a small (or large) act of kindness in an effort to spread some positive energy around the world. I just can't understand why people are so quick to go negative!!!!! I guess it takes more integrity and more overall energy to go or stay positive.

Fight the good fight! Stay Positive, it benefits us all!

American Prayer

2008-09-12T01:16:00.000-04:00

American Prayer

This YouTube video was brought to my attention today. Check it out.

Remember and Forget

2008-09-11T14:15:00.000-04:00

Remember and Forget

Remembering the tragic day of Sept. 11, 2001.

I was in DC the day it happened. I saw the mangled Pentagon from the highway. I once worked at NASA TV and wondered how many of the people I had worked with had been affected? Were their family and friends okay?

It's a memory that one, at times wants to forget. Some things in life are so tough that it's difficult to remember. But we should remember, right? Is it okay to forget? Somethings in life, when discussed bring about such sad feelings. Some things in life, when merely thought about, can bring about negative energy. Blame. Shame. Hate. Love. Forgive. Be informed. Some acts have nothing to do with religion.

When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure.

God Bless......

Two Living Legends... In Two Days

2008-09-09T22:23:00.006-04:00

TWO LIVING LEGENDS... IN TWO DAYS

Barack Obama: Up Close

You might recall my previous post Much Ado About Nothing about my daughter's hopes to meet Barack Obama. Well, late last week, I received correspondence about a Town Hall meeting with Barack Obama to be hosted right in my neighborhood on Monday, Sept. 8, 2008. My daughter is only three years of age, but she said she wanted to see Barack Obama (she's actually been asking to do so for about a year) and she paid her way by standing on line with me and her six-year-old friend and her mom, for about three hours on Saturday morning to get tickets to the Monday event. Okay, you'd think after having tickets in hand we'd be relaxed and plan to arrive at the event say thirty-minutes before event start time. NoooO way! The event was scheduled to start at 6:30pm and we were planning to arrive no later than 3:00! Keeping on schedule is no small task when navigating the day with small children in tow or in front, depending upon the day. So following a few hiccups and a small (vehicle) snafu we made it before 3:30. A BIG thanks to my Dad for holding our place in line. Nonetheless, it was another long day of hurry up and wait... And boy was it worth the wait. My daughter had a dream come true on Monday, she got to see Barack Obama, live and in person. My love for photography could not have come in more handy than on Monday. I captured some great photos of Barack Obama and of some folks in attendance! You can check out the gallery on the Mixed Roots website!!!

Another Legend:

While standing on line Saturday morning, to get our Obama Town Hall Meeting tickets, my friend received a phone call. It was an invitation to join Congressman John Conyers for a "Kids for Obama" rally on Sunday. While I've met Congressman previously, this event was significant for my family, because when my mother was just a teen-aged girl in the sixties she campaigned for John Conyers aboard a van, with a bull-horn in hand shouting

into the streets... "Conyers for Congress... Support John Conyers for Congress" Now, all these years later, her grand-daughter supports the Congressman's rally for Barack Obama, and she meets them both in the same weekend to boot!

The Barre in this political dance raises again

2008-09-03T23:31:00.002-04:00

The Barre in this political dance raises again

"Lipstick." That's the difference between a pitbull and a self-professed "hockey mom" says Sarah Palin in her RNC speech. Okay. I kinda like this momchick. She might make sipping the Kool-aid seem okay. But let me be clear, I only bleed red, my politics are Blue- just like my university... GOooooo Bluuuue!

Seriously speaking, I don't get caught up in political labels- I've had enough of labels and separation in my lifetime. I just happen to feel aligned with Blue more often.

My reaction to the "Big Night".... She historically changed the face of the Republican party forever! Whoda thunk it. I didn't like her hits on Barack. She mocked him and his campaign quite a bit, but I know that's the climate and par for the course and I guess it's even her job in this phase of the campaign.

I think much of America fell in love with a lady named Sarah tonight. She presented herself and her family as very normal, everyday folks. I actually think she is too. One thing tugs away at me though. What if that pregnant teen girl had been Chelsea Clinton? Would the republicans extend this exact same forgiving and loving kindness towards her and her parents and especially to Hilary? Or would they say, Look Hilary can't even manage motherhood and keep her (only) child out of "trouble", how's she gonna manage the affairs of national government? The heroism in this could be viewed as a self-righteous double standard- I'm just saying....

I was stunned by some of the immediate comments following Palin's speech. Suddenly delivering a great speech in the face of her turmoil filled week ( clearly a reference to the announcement of her pregnant under-age seventeen-year-old daughter) makes her a LEADER that the Republican party can be proud of. Skkkkuurrrt!! Rewind. Come again. Delivering a great speech makes her a LEADER that the Republican party can be proud of. I get it. I understand it, because that's just the type of chick I am. I'm understanding and I try to be open. So yeah I can see how they can equate ONE speech to her being a potential good leader. I had that same feeling on July 27, 2004. But what's up with the sudden change of [republican] heart? Haven't many in the party made statements referring to Sen. Barack Obama... a good speaker yes, but a leader that does not make him. Is he ready to lead? That's been the badge and shield- and the battle cry the entire campaign (of those who oppose him.) Well, the barre is raised again on Barack.

So with that said... in the words of John McCain "My Friends".... I seriously think Barack Obama is better suited as a WORLD LEADER. United Nations maybe?

On the heels of visions of Victory: Gutsy or Gimmick, Responsible or Reckless??

2008-08-29T17:16:00.013-04:00

On the Heels of visions of Victory: Gusty or Gimmick? Responsible or Reckless?

Senator Barack Obama hit it out of the football stadium last night. (I'll forever call it Mile High... Denver has been my team since the early 90's!) This DNC is being talked

about and referred to as one of the BEST in history.

He did his job, gracefully and humbly accepted the nomination and

fired up his team and now they're ready to go.

Gutsy or Gimmick? Responsible or Reckless?

Sarah Louise Heath Palin. What in the world? Is this risky or what? What if this ticket wins and she for any reason has to be the President. She's younger than Obama, has less --broad-span Washington-- experience than Obama. It's rumored she has no international experience at all- NONE. I don't think she'll be able to debate Sen. Biden. I don't doubt she is accomplished in her own right and has perhaps even proved a good public servant in her two-years as Governor of Alaska. Even with her self expressed (13 years) experience, she certainly can't compare to HIlary's accomplishments (which seems like what they're attempting to do with their references to Hilary and the 18 million cracks in the glass) so how can her presence pull the women's vote? So what is she doing on the ticket?

She's served as mayor, to a town of 9,000! Okay, lets talk about executive(ship) She's a Governor. True. But to a state, that has is less populated, than are some CITIES in my home state of Michigan. It's our nation's third least populated state. I would hope that our nation's VP would have had some "real" conflict resolution, budget experience and so forth. What is going on in Alaska, that has prepared her for this nomination or the job? Not long ago, in 2002 Alaska just reached a popluation just over 600,000 and currently boasts a population of just around 750,000- and that's among the most generous estimates. The city of Chicago is populated by just shy of 3 MILLION, and Chicagoland (nearby cities & suburbs) has a population of 9.5 MILLION. Shall we explore the entire STATE OF ILLINOIS? Nay, I think the picture and point is clear.

I'm trying to wrap my mind around this announcement today. I think this is an unfair position to put Palin in. You can't throw an egar woman on the ticket as your running-mate and think she's gonna soak up the Hilary Rodman Clinton supporters. Ain't gonna happen! Palin is PRO-LIFE, so she'll pull in those women, but I'd debate that the majority of Clinton supporters are PRO-CHOICE- Palin is conservative. I really believe the McCain campaign pulled this "stunt" with a determined goal to secure the female votes they believe are lingering in the "I don't know, I'm still not sure" balance. Well if this selection to WIN at any cost, doesn't sober up the Clinton supporters who have been stuck on the fence coming out of the primary, I don't know what will. All I can say is: "DON'T DRINK THE KOOL-AID!!" I heard McCain only met her one time.

It clearly seems like this is a hail-mary attempt to pull women voters. THEORY: What if the Republican party thinks McCain's chance to defeat Obama is slim or will be so tough, that this move is the seemingly only option. It's bold, it's a campaign driven move and it's less about the people, or serving the people of the country and more about the WIN. Could it be a plan for the future elections to come- post President Barack Obama. They realize Obama has changed the face of how campaigns are run and they know as a party, they've not

had a woman nominee before, so they're prepping for the future. Yet, all the while, hopeful that this bizarre move could pull off an upset. If this republican tactic works, it will truly be one of the most gutsy moves and biggest payoff we'll see in a long, long time. But honestly, does McCain or the Republican party think women are like sheep? We don't just herd behind one another, sorry. We have brains, and they work, and well. We can be discerning and believe me we will be! This is a big big decision and it's not simply about the advancement of women, it's much much more than that.

I like what one woman said in response to this selection."What does McCain think women are like... Legos? That you can take one woman out and put another one in?" Okay, right about now... I'd love to see Hilary and her in a debate. Whoa! But I guess we'll get to see how it pans out with Joe Biden and Sarah Palin- Interesting.

Speaking of interesting. A note on political FASHION....Did anyone else find her choice in a suit color

interesting? I've not noticed a female in politics wear a Black suit. Hues of red maybe. Blue, Orange, Yellow, Green and even Pink, but not Black or a Blue so deep that it looks Black- interesting.

My curiosity won't let me rest on this question.... What gave the nod to Sarah Palin and not Governor M. Jodi Rell(R) of Connecticut. Or he could have really shaken things up by selecting Linda Lingle-the first female and first Jewish governor of Hawaii.

Happy Birthday Senator McCain. 72 years old!

Speech of a Lifetime

2008-08-28T18:41:00.001-04:00

Speech of a Lifetime!!

Barack Obama will deliver what will be a historical speech on several levels.

I'm happy that Hilary seemingly endorsed or threw her support behind Sen. Obama this week, urging her supporters to examine their position in this campaign and what they are voting for. I think in a sense she was saying don't abandon the cause, just because I'm not the nominee. I'm just disappointed that she didn't outright note that [Obama] "He is ready to lead". But her husband, William Jefferson Clinton communicated that very notion in his speech the last night, which was a happy moment. He also, opened his speech saying "I'm honored to be here to support Barack Obama." Thanks Bill!

Interesting campaign AD here by McCain. I like it. It's the McCain of old. By that, I mean it's the McCain I used to watch on Sunday morning news for several years way prior to this campaign. It's classy, but I can't help but to think because things are still political, that there's something hidden woven in there. Probably not, right?

So it's on the 45th anniversary of the march on Washington, the National Mall, a historical speech -- I HAVE A DREAM -- (that I blogged about here previously) was delivered by Martin Luther King Jr. to more than two-hundred, fifty thousand people!

Mr. Barack Obama:

I'm so honored to witness your passion, service and brilliance. You have truly inspired millions, countries and continents through your dedication to serve and move toward positive change. You have also ignited a unique special interest in the mixed-race experience and I thank you, we all thank you. Through G-d, you will continue to serve not only our country, but the global community. Keep on the positive path, positive actions must conquer the effects of negative energy. I'm certain your Democratic Nomination acceptance speech will be historical, and I will be-- as they say-- glued to the TV! (as will be my three-year-old daughter)

NPR focuses on blog: Plight of Mixed-Race Children

2008-08-25T22:40:00.001-04:00

Ok, I'm jumping right in on this one...

This author got his info and research from only (9) mixed-race undergrads at Harvard.

Sigh.....

I didn't and don't make a practice of engaging in "risky" behavior. I guess I don't fit the mold they've uncovered. Here's a excerpt that really bothers me. I don't doubt the research as authentic, yet I don't think it's a fair nor accurate representation and I just don't like the spin. The paper notes: "We argue that these behavioral patterns are most consistent with the “marginal man” hypothesis, which we formalize as a two-sector Roy model. Mixed race adolescents – not having a natural peer group – need to engage in more risky behaviors to be accepted." I find this offensive. I feel the research presented could only further promote the stereotype that mixed-race children and their advocates challenge and work against.

Adolescent behavior is risky across demographics, regardless of race, ethnicity or class. I know many mono-racial, poor, wealthy, and immigrant adolescents who behaved in outrageous manners. Most children are confronted with situations to give into NEGATIVE peer pressure. But there are some adolescents who just simply follow the rules, they don't ruffle feathers. I didn't see my parents go with the flow or be swayed by negative peer pressure. They had enough negativity chasing them already (being a mixed couple in Detroit during the riots). , I contend that there's no reason to suspect nor conclude in any sweeping fashion that mixed-race children behave badly to fit in or be accepted. To some children "fitting in" or being accepted is so paramount that they'll do whatever to satisfy that need to be accepted. While others strive hard towards the elusive "perfect kid" syndrome.

Okay, that's my two-cents... Now check out some of the findings... These really bother me too!

NPR Hosts a Blogger Roundtable to discuss a blog posted by Steven D. Levitt on Freakonomics. Levitt wondered, "What's it like to grow up with one parent who is black and another who is white?" Here's some of his findings:

1) Mixed-race kids grow up in households that are similar along many dimensions to those in which black children grow up: similar incomes, the father is much less likely to be around than in white households, etc.

2) In terms of academic performance, mixed-race kids fall in between blacks and whites.

3) Mixed-race kids do have one advantage over white and black kids: the mixed-race kids are much more attractive on average.

4) There are some bad adolescent behaviors that whites do more than blacks (like drinking and smoking), and there are other bad adolescent behaviors that blacks do more than whites (watching TV, fighting, getting sexually transmitted diseases). Mixed-race kids manage to be as bad as whites on the white behaviors and as bad as blacks on the black behaviors. Mixed-race kids act out in almost every way measured in the data set.

Read the paper The Plight of Mixed Race Adolescents* he co-authored with Roland Fryer, Lisa Kahn and Jorg Spenkuch.

I can only say a sarcastic "Thanks alot guys"

If you ever want to balance your study, contact me! No, Seriously.

Mulatto by Langston Hughes

2008-08-22T01:43:00.001-04:00

Mulatto by Langston Hughes

(audio)

circa, 1930

MULATTO (1927)

by Langston Hughes

I am your son, white man!
Georgia dusk
And the turpentine woods.
One of the pillars of the temple fell.
You are my son!
Like Hell!
The moon over the turpentine woods.
The Southern night
Full of stars,
Great big yellow stars.
What's a body but a toy?
Juicy bodies
Of nigger wenches
Blue black
Against black fences.
O, you little bastard boy,
What's a body but a toy?
The scent of pine wood stings the soft night air.
What's the body of your mother?
Silver moonlight everywhere.
What's the body of your mother?
Sharp pine scent in the evening air.
A nigger night,
A nigger joy,
A little yellow
Bastard boy.
Naw, you ain't my brother.
Niggers ain't my brother.
Not ever.
Niggers ain't my brother.
The Southern night is full of stars,
Great big yellow stars.
O, sweet as earth,
Dusk dark bodies
Give sweet birth
To little yellow bastard boys.
Git on back there in the night,
You ain't white
The bright stars scatter everywhere.
Pine wood scent in the evening air.
A nigger night,
A nigger joy.
I am your son, white man!
A little yellow
Bastard boy.

Langston Hughes was born in Joplin, Missouri, in 1902. Traveling to Europe and Africa, lived in Mexico, Paris, Italy and the Soviet Union. He was famously remembered for living in Harlem, NY. He was an author of: journalism, books for children, humor, librettos, lyrics, drama, radio scripts and, and poetry. A deep concern for Negro life pervaded him and was reflected in his work and the many honors awarded him. His mixed-race experience seeps through and is revealed in his work, yet is was and often still is so today, as black. While creating the volume of Black Misery, he died in 1967.

Hughes, circa 1960

My Daughter the Mind

2008-08-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

My Daughter the Mind

Are you kidding me?! I just can't get over what a memory my daughter has. It has become, lets just say... quite an impressive item to witness.

Last year, I took her to a doll/teachers shop to browse around, they always have such cool things for children and teachers alike. The shop is located on a busy street with limited parallel parking at the storefront and all the parking lots for all stores and restaurants are located behind the stores. So not to be bothered with the inevitable circle around the street to find a storefront parking spot, we never passed the front of the store, we drove to the back taking a side street that precedes the storefront. (okay, so we never drove pass the front door)

Three weeks ago, we drove past the doll/teacher's storefront and my daughter said-- totally taking me by surprise-- "Oh momma, we went there" I was amazed. I've been thinking about ever since... "how did she recognize that store" I still don't know for certain, but my theory is she may have photographically memorized a logo that she saw repeatedly in the shop or perhaps while passing the storefront she caught a glimpse of the store's interior and it reminded her of where she'd been before. I understand all this is possible, but what I guess I didn't know --only having one child-- is that all this is possible at only age THREE! Mind you, she was only two-years-old when we went to the store.

So if that's not enough, hows this one? I was one of those "new moms" that obsessed about everything over her child. I'm not ashamed either. It's my motherhood, and I manage it how I like, that you very much :) I never gave my daughter one jar of baby food, I made everything, (well I didn't bake bread) and she only ate food from Whole Foods Market the first two years of her life, then we got off the wagon and ventured across the street to Trader Joe's. I made fresh fruit smoothies and I even made her popciles. She didn't have candy until after her third birthday, she still doesn't know what the golden arches are (mcdonald's) and she enjoys CNN, I'm not kidding, she recognizes political figures! She eats avocado, lots of berries and loves broccoli.

So here's the thing, I never liked to take my daughter to the hair salon, because of all the chemicals in the air. But there have been a few rare occasions that she has been with me in the salon. One day, she was with me for the duration of my service (and she was such a good girl too). This day must have been at least 9 months ago now. Yesterday, I popped into the salon on the way to the gym, my daughter in tow. I was caught up in conversation with my stylist when I heard his assistant--Michelle-- say, "I can't believe you remember my name!" That's when Michelle looked at me in both disbelief sheer joy and said "She remembered my name" I said "no she didn't, she's only met you once", My stylist at by this time, was all in too, saying "did she really, Michelle?" So I asked my daughter, "how did you remember her?" To which she replied, "I just did". Well, then she wanted to show off, so she turned to my stylist and said "is your name Hoff?" He said- with a big smile- "Yes it is, wow, you have some memory kid" I was so proud. But I have a confession to make. I'm still trying to figure out how she remembers things soooo well. It's crazy. Well, I guess her memory is nothing compared to her imagination. She's had an imaginary pet dinosaur since she was two years and 5 months! Not only that, but she three months after developing the pet, she gave the thing a first and a last name!

Oh and by the way, I'm not as over-the-top with motherhood any longer. I've relaxed quite a

bit. My daughter, eats chocolate, ice cream, and lollipops. I even let her get her hands dirty once in a while :)

Champion doesn't mean metal

2008-08-20T21:54:00.003-04:00

Champion doesn't mean GOLD metal: Lolo a class act

photo: nbcolympics.com

Lolo Jones ran hurdles last night. She was favored to win the gold- she had the lead, then caught the 9th hurdle, tripped up, lost the lead in the final seconds and didn't even metal. She placed 7th! That ending was not at all in her plan. It has proved to be among the most heart breaking moments of the games. She broke away from a post-race interview, just for a second or two. Not to excuse herself to gain her composure nor to gather her emotions after a terrible misfortune but she quickly gave a congratulatory wish and hug to the bronze medalist as she passed by during the interview.

Lolo had to be hurting and experiencing severe disappointment, but

didn't make excuses for the failed attempt at the gold, she didn't get caught up in the it's all about me syndrome. She didn't complain, she

simply showed an impressive display of grace, humility, dignity & class... and for that she's gets the --Mixed Roots-- GOLD!

Lolo you rock! We'll be cheering for you in 2012 when you take your mark in London!

Lori Lolo Jones is --according to her usatf bio -- French, African-American, Native American and Norwegian heritage

photo: oakley.com

LoLo Jones Goes for the Gold

2008-08-18T21:51:00.001-04:00

Lolo (Lori) Jones goes for the gold on Tuesday 8.19.08!

Photo from AP Photo by Charile Neibergall

Working on my fitness

2008-08-07T15:56:00.002-04:00

Ok, how does it happen? Here's how... One day you just realize that all the excuses don't amount to a hill of beans. All I've got to say, is I'll be working on my fitness! Hitting the gym REGULARLY that's the only way to see progress. It's really difficult to keep on a work-out schedule with a preschooler! But here I go......

WHO I AM: not what I am!

2008-08-07T15:25:00.007-04:00

In July, Mixed Roots Movement℠ hosted their Lil' Roots™ event "made especially for children" . It was so great for the children. Every second and each detail was planned with the children in mind. A BIG thank you to Saadia and Claire for all their dedication and hard work. The kids enjoyed snacks, a scavenger hunt and storytime by our Mixed Roots Movement friend & local author. Tara read her Who I AM not what I am! to the children as they cozied up with their fuzzy friends (teddy bear or favorite stuffed animal). Some of the kids asked a question or two which was nice to see they were engaged in the activity and book!

My Mixed Roots

2008-07-25T01:20:00.008-04:00

My Mixed Roots

A little girl (that is me, yours truly) annoyed by negative perceptions of race and racial identity it's place and the narrow identity spaces in this world.

I like most kids just wanted to fit in. Very tender heart, hurt by the labels I didn't want nor deserved. But as most do, learned to navigate and get through each day, always with a smile.

My gramma used to tell my mother, "you'd never know anything ever bothers that girl, she's always smiling" Gramma... I'm still smiling!

Isn't TV in color these days? Why isn't this an image we can see on TV or in films more often?

I'm here with my dad and my mom- who is pregnant with my sister in this photo.

"Mixed & Multi"

2008-07-24T12:09:00.003-04:00

"Mixed & Multi"

An Inter-racial couple talks to CNN's Soledad O'Brien, a biracial journalist about their "mixed & multi" experiences. Bill Cohen, former U.S. Defense Secretary, had a multi-religious background and married Janet Langhart, born Janet Floyd, an African American journalist with a multi-racial heritage. They wrote a memoir about their mixed & multi experiences as well.

It also appears that Ms. Cohen has written a wonderful stage-play. An imaginary conversation between Anne Frank and Emmett Till and they share their experiences with one another. This no doubt is a powerful play and ultimately challenges our capacity on acceptance, empathy and tolerance regarding cultural, racial and religious diversity. Bravo Janet! I wish it much, much success and I hope to see it someday. Hope you can bring it to Metro-Detroit area, we need it!

Featuring...Zoe Kravitz

2008-07-23T12:43:00.015-04:00

Featuring.. Zoe Kravitz

Of course you remember Lisa Bonet ( a biracial actor, of the Cosby show & A Different World) and her former husband Lenny Kravitz- a biracial musician and son of Roxie Roker, actor (Helen Willis on "The Jeffersons).
Their daughter Zoe ( whoa, I remember when she was born!) makes an appearance on this video. It's similar to the "YES WE CAN"-- video that was featured in my "Obama Fest" a while back.
Check it out. We Are the Ones -(we can change the world)

it takes a second or two to load and be sure to view it through to the very end. (or here's a shorter version immediately below)

This is a similar with many sharing their opinions about Presidential candidate Barack Obama.

What stood out to me is that there is a young --self-identified mixed-- woman who shares her thoughts.

Obama referred to as an OREO: Just a matter of time!

2008-07-15T12:01:00.009-04:00

Obama referred to as an OREO: Just a matter of time!

Okay, the day before he was depicted as a terrorist, he was referred to as an "OREO". I guess this was just a matter of time. The country might begin to see the truth of what people think of a biracial person. It's what's on the minds of people everywhere but it's rarely talked about: What to think of a black/white mixed person.

Naturally, you know Obama will rise above it. All of us mixed rooters will deal with it, but what about the children who are biracial (black/white mix) who hear this. It's such a slap in the face, to Barack's esteemed position. It's just as bad as using the "N" word in a way. Why? Because it's a term that is used to degrade or low-rate or put a mixed person in their place by both blacks and whites. This use of this term leaves you no refuge as a mixed person. Who do you draw support from when people from both sides of your mix call you this? Only another mixed person can truly understand, relate and offer support. I have been called an Oreo --among other things-- many times in my life. And not doubt for the same reason Barack was referred to as such- for having a white mom and for having brown skin but being viewed as "not black enough" so my insides, my internal perceptions must be white not black. The idea behind the term is to convey in the most harsh way... how can you "really" be black if you're part white? You can't understand the struggle of being black so while you look black you're not one of us you're white as far as we're concerned.

So now, if people are paying attention, they'll begin to see a real side of the "mixed experience".

For the RECORD, calling a mixed person an OREO is just wrong, anyway you look at it's wrong and should not be accepted!

Roland Martin.. you should have noted, (it would have been nice if you had anyway) that referring to Barack in this way is just wrong, but instead you said "him having a white mom is a qualifier". So to my point, sometimes a mixed-race person stands alone, when the ugly head of the mixed-race racism rears it's head ::: hear Roland's remarks on CNN.com videos

Satire?

2008-07-14T11:23:00.012-04:00

Satire: Wit used to attack or expose stupidity

This July, 21 New Yorker magazine cover is designed to merely demonstrate the perceptions people have. It's causing a lot of controversy along the way. Naturally, Sen. Obama's political camp is very unhappy about this depiction (in the name of Satire). In many ways, this cover, could assist in manifesting the misconceptions and prejudices about Sen. Obama and even his wife, the culture of black pride and the religion of Islam. The result of this cover may not promote nor prompt people to educate themselves at all, instead it simply could perpetuate opinions and give some reason to hold stead-fast to their misconceptions. Some may not even recognize the objective of SATIRE: Wit, used to attack or expose stupidity.

There's so much going on in this image...it's all suppose to reflect the stupid notions some people have. The portrayal of Mrs. Obama, her hair in a fro, reflective of "black power", her being adorned with gunfire and clothes clothes that reflect battle, sassy hand on the hip, while giving her husband the "secret code" fist bump. Then we see what's suppose to be Sen. Barack in an interpretation of a cultural/traditional Islamic clothing, a portrait of Bin Laden above the mantel, and for crying out loud- the US flag burning in the fireplace.

What do you think of this satire?

I don't know if it's ever going to happen, but I the romantic, optimist that I am, believes it's possible to work as a team with negative energy as our opponent. The world would be so much better if we: all ethnicities, races, genders, ages, religions, countries and so forth just get committed to niceness over meanness, respect over disrespect, positive over negative, empathy over judgement, and charity over greed. Don't ya think these five could make things better world-wide?

Passing for Black: Eyes of Pain

2008-07-06T22:28:00.007-04:00

Passing for Black: Eyes of Pain

Mixed Roots Movement hosted a cultural culinary event last saturday and a new --middle aged-- couple joined us for the first time. Both are mixed-race, the husband (we'll call him "Leo") with blue eyes told a story that I just can't get out of my mind. His eyes were intense and the pain of what he felt could be seen in his eyes..

Leo's father a biracial (black/white) man, although he looked white and could have "passed" lived his life according to the one-drop rule his entire life. Leo began to share his recollection of driving to see his father in his home for the aging. Through tears, Leo finally got to the part of his father's death. Leo shared that staff marked his father's race as "white" on his death certificate. I was stunned. I didn't know what to say. Here is Leo, his first time at a Mixed Roots Movement activity, he's obviously connected and we to him. Our events and activities are always a time of sharing and relating but this story struck me like none I've heard yet. Leo went on to explain that it was painful that in this country his father was made to choose, and if he didn't the one-drop rule chose for him. But what seemed to most disturb Leo was that his father was subject to discriminations from both blacks and whites and he lived his life as a black man, but then died a white man! He said it was all too ironic. He said that when he returned home from the funeral, and told his friends what happened, they all wanted to know if he was going to take steps to change the record. Leo said, the record was made and his father is dead now, changing it wouldn't change anything. To me, it's indicative of just what being mixed --specifically black/white-- in America is.

Mixed People live full lives with experiences like this and who cares? Anyone? Anyone outside of the "mixed" community? I certainly hope so. If not, just listen, our stories are on the way.There are several mixed race people and organizations that have being doing work for years that if not already are public, have found the strength to go public. The stories real and fiction are and will be gripping and compelling and certainly noteworthy.

Juneteenth

2008-06-19T23:47:00.004-04:00

JUNETEENTH

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. Today is the 143rd year which commemorates African American freedom and ephasizes education and achievement.

Nowhere in the annals of history has a people experienced such a long and traumatic ordeal as Africans during the Atlantic slave trade. Over the nearly four centuries of the slave - which continued until the end of the Civil War - millions of African men, women, and children were savagely torn from their homeland, herded onto ships, and dispersed all over the so-called New World. Although there is no way to compute exactly how many people perished, it has been estimated that between thirty and sixty million Africans were subjected to this horrendous triangular trade system and that only one third-if that-of those people survived...'

excerpt from the introduction by Dr. John Henrick Clarke from THE MIDDLE PASSAGE, Tom Feelings

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-18T00:40:00.006-04:00

Happy Father's Day...

to My Dad, My Hubby and all the Father's

My Dad with my daughter. My -ever helpful- little girl, why is her grand'daddy letting her near a leaf blower?! It's certainly not what I think she should be doing at age three!

Sigh ... ;)

Grandparents, gotta love 'em!

My daughter with her daddy (my hubby)

A stroll on a beach in VA.

Happy "LOVING DAY"

2008-06-12T04:16:00.000-04:00

Happy "LOVING DAY"!

The Historical "Fist Bump"

2008-06-09T01:18:00.008-04:00

The Historical "Fist Bump":

Obama gives Obama Dap and the world tries to figure it out!

On Tuesday when Barack became the presumptive nominee, clinching the Democratic Nomination, Michelle Obama, signaled -give me a fist bump baby- and Barack obliged her request happily. She congratulated her hubby with a cultural shake. It was a cute- the cutest dap exchange I've ever been witness to- but didn't think it would get so much attention.

My early memories of a version of the fist bump is of the pound more than 15 years ago. I don't know when the first time I saw it done, I remember giving and receiving pounds in college. But I distinctly remember someone- a sports agent- telling me that Kareem Abdul Jabbar is in large part responsible for the spread of the pound. I don't recall the explanation, of why he started the using the pound, but he used it while he was a player with the Lakers. If he wasn't the first, he was among the first to use it. Then naturally, it became very popular with guys on the courts, pro and in the hood. Then it spread from there. I guess if you wanted to shake hand with Kareem you had to give him a pound.

Funny, that's how Howie Mandel (Deal or No Deal) insists on his greeting... he's a self professed germaphob.

Personally, I like the pound and fist bump, because it assists in limiting the spread of germs. So there's a little know fact about me, I'm a germ nut. Well I guess it would be more accurate to say I'm an avoid-a-germ nut. I think this was the reason the guy said Kareem used it- to avoid germs. So check out the most famous fist bump yet!

I'm curious to know what will become of the booty tap Barack gave Michelle immediately following the fist bump.

Politicians and Leaders

2008-06-08T23:05:00.002-04:00

Politicians & Leaders

Something became clear to me this past week, on Tuesday in fact. Sen. Hilary Clinton's speech Tuesday night-the night when Sen. Barack Obama became the presumptive Democratic nominee-was telling.

The choices we make tell the world something about us. What I learned that evening is that Hilary is a Politician. Simply put. There are good ones,

mediocore and bad ones. I happen to think Hilary is a good one.

But I like a leader.

Barack Obama, is in my opinion a leader.

There are leaders in every field, in all careers. It's not something of which can be contrived- it's a natural gift. Some use the gift properly, for good and wisely, while others use the gift with ill intent. I believe Barack Obama, has demonstrated his desire to be a good and respected public servant, one who serves the people. I believe he could become the people's President

McCain...

I've always enjoyed watching him on the Sunday news programing. I've appreciated much of what he has to say and some of his positions. I don't yet know if he's a leader or a politician.

But I believe he's competing against a leader for certain.

"What's a Bubbie"

2008-06-08T22:06:00.003-04:00

"What's a Bubbie?"

My daughter is three-years of age. Both of sets of her grandparents are living. She has a Nonie and Grand'Daddy; a Nana and a Papa. There is also and a great-grandmother, and a great-grandfather still living as well. Great-Grandma E just passed this past Dec. 24 and Great- Grandpa B passed earlier last year. All the great-grands are my husband's grandparents, none of my grandparents are living and they all passed on when I was young-er.

But the focus today is on her Bubbie....

Today, my daughter and I spend the afternoon visiting my parents. We were gathered at the kitchen table, just the ladies- my mother, myself and my daughter, when suddenly "Bubbie" came to mind. My mother and I started reminiscing about Bubbie. I recounted her living just long enough to be present at my wedding. My mother, wishfully spoke aloud: " I wish Bubbie could be here to see our girl." (referring to my daughter). My daughter as she always does, turned her head back and forth while following the conversation and during a conversational pause, she asked, "what's a Bubbie Mumma?" I thought it was the cutest question. I of course went on to explain who Bubbie was and explained that she didn't live nearby for us to see her, but how we wished that they could have met. I told her that she would have really had a lot of fun during visits with Bubbie. "Bubbie would have loved you so much" I explained.

Bubbie Jean, was a woman who our family came to know many years ago. I had no grandparents living, so she took on the grandmother role for me. She was always cared about what was going on in my life, concerned about me, how I was feeling and coping with a recently ended relationship. She was so overjoyed for me when became involved with "a new guy" and when I became engaged to that "new guy" my husband. Her presence at the wedding is one of the most memorable memories of my wedding for our family. I recall her saying "I wouldn't miss it for the world"

Bubbie Jean, was involved in the infancy stages of what is now well-known as the Cheese Cake Factory. She and her cousin baked cheese cakes from a kitchen in metro-Detroit. She didn't continue on in the business because her cousin and her cousin's husband moved to California and the empire grew from there. I can't help but to think of (my) Bubbie every single time I hear the word(s) cheese cake or Cheese Cake Factory. I wish David would name a sandwich after his Auntie Jean. That would be nice.

Having a Bubbie is another instance of my mixed experience and I love it!

Bubbie, we miss you!

Barack Obama Defeats the former first lady

2008-06-03T21:31:00.011-04:00

Candidate for Change now leads Democratic party:

Barack Obama Clinches the Nomination

After a monday visit to Troy High, in Troy, Michigan -a city I once lived in and in a school where I once spoke to a group of students in-, Today, Obama became the- presumptive- first Mixed-Race, Man of Color, African-American, Black, candidate to lead the democratic party in the campaign for the Presidency of the United States of America! I think Dr. Martin Luther King would be so proud, because for many our nation has arrived or is at least realizing another bit of the dream I HAVE A DREAM speech (1963).

Barack Obama wasn't taken seriously during the first round of debates. He wasn't suppose to get far. He wasn't suppose to defeat Hilary or the Clinton's for that matter. But after 54 primaries, Barack Obama defeated the former first lady, the Rev. Wright controversy, the racial disparity, the fear mongering, the verbal attacks by Bill Clinton, the desperate jump Hilary made when she reference McCain brings his experience to this campaign and Obama brings a speech, the Rev. Pfleger controversial mockery of Hilary Clinton, the threats on his life, he pushed through, he gained support and trust. After a long campaign rooted in hope and change, he made history.

He and his wife, Michelle - wearing a regal purple dress- took the stage with smiles and lots of energy, thanked his grandmother in Hawaii, saying "who helped make me the man I am today, tonight is for her"

When Barack Obama said, "Tonight I can stand here and say, that I will be the Democratic Nominee" the 20,000 present in the Minnesota arena erupted into a roar. He quickly, gracefully and respectfully noted that Hilary Clinton is "a leader" and went on to note her contributions to the democratic party.

As my husband likes to say, the best part of a speech is the backside. Here is the best remark near the end of his speech... "this was the moment, this is our time!"

">This is World History!

For the record, Ms. Clinton did NOT concede, bow-out, nor withdraw. Infact, she said "I will be making NO decisions tonight" Where is this maneuver on the scale of political tactics? Curious tenacity or delusional? The movement of her campaign, will be particularly intriguing in the coming days. Nonetheless, I congratulate Sen. Clinton on her 18 million votes. But I believe in taking this position, she has sealed her fate that she may not realize the "dream ticket" many have eluded to.

Unforgivable?!

2008-06-03T18:39:00.007-04:00

UNFORGIVABLE?!

I attempted to blog a bit earlier when I heard the hard news that tonight indeed may be a sweet, historical moment for: All of America, Mixed Race America, for Black America, for the world. Sen. Barack Obama should clinch the Democratic nomination for Presidency tonight! Then, I haulted with pause because, while I feel celebratory, the news is all about Sen. Hilary Clinton who won't give up the fight. She turned this into a fight. She works feverishly to do a little more than offer herself as a public servant. As a woman, I am proud of her, I am. However, something, somehow rubs me the wrong way because she has revealed something of herself through the use of particular tactics. There seems to be something behind her face of grace, which is conflicting. My question is why is she - or shall I say her campaign- positioning her campaign to put pressure Sen. Barack Obama to select her for choice for the Vice Presidential candidate. Should that be his decision? This tactic may only drive a deeper wedge within the party, especially, should Sen. Barack Obama decide not to ask her to be on the general election ticket.

So there I sat, poised to blog in bliss but oddly torn behind the energy that crept into the day. I chatted with a dear friend of 19 years and he directed me to this...

I'm curious to know the outcome. I won't be sad if Sen. Barack Obama didn't take Hilary on the ticket. I do have huge hope that Hilary will find the grace, I believe she has and back Barack whole-heartedly tonight. She's apparently had plentiful opportunity to apologize for what you just saw and has not. It's possible that she's quite resentful, because she nor her entire campaign could anticipate that Barack Obama could snatch what the Clintons believed to be theirs. Afterall, she had the party on her side, she had the money, the legacy, the lead in points and suddenly to paraphrase Barack's self description: "the skinny guy with the funny name" comes out of nowhere raising fist-fulls of money, engaging millions of citizens and bringing them into the political process using the internet, and delivering speeches that even folks across the party lines are moved by. Sen. Clinton, simply didn't expect it and I imagine is having a tough time managing this type of inevitable defeat.

Something which is curious to me...the media has in large part, kept this issue of her reference to Bobby Kennedy under the radar. Why? I hope its in an effort not to dignify her comments, yet something in me since I know how journalism works through and through- dignity is not the reason for the hush on this. Are her comments unforgivable? As horrible as the comments are, or the implications may be, I believe it's better to find a way to forgive. Forgiveness breeds better energy and helps to bring us all back to center.

Peace be on our nation tonight and beyond!

2008-06-03T02:54:00.009-04:00

Thrilled with progress

I've been working on my book: the concept, the outline, the interviews, the research and now the manuscript for more than a year and counting. It's been tedious at times. I'm a mom; a wife; I run my home and Mixed Roots Movement and I manage our property that my husband and I lease- that, being a landlord is often a job in itself- additionally, I manage my photography. My schedule is always full, never much time for the lil pleasures I once enjoyed: a manicure, a massage. But life is good despite the void and the blessings come in different forms. I've been very fortunate to gain the sincere support of several people on my project. Today, the person who is writing the foreword for the book, emailed me to say they LOVE the pages they read from the book and they are working to complete the foreword this month.

It's premature to make any announcements just yet. But I'm happy about the steady progress! Stay-tuned!

An idea...

2008-06-01T19:22:00.002-04:00

An idea that whispers, nags and just won't go away is the seed to destiny!

Reel Mixed Experience

2008-06-01T01:13:00.004-04:00

The Reel Mixed Experience was today and yah the little festival was fantastic! The event attracted the attention of the media, the screening got rave reviews, the photography exhibit was adored by all who viewed it and the attendance was awesome! The venue's executives were very supportive and impressed by a news article they read about Mixed Roots Movement. Many people expressed gratitude for the event and the "movement".
My favorite part and my measure of the events success was the discussion at the end. People stayed until the very end, both sharing their experiences and asking questions alike. I feel great that it accomplished just what it was meant to. Loving Day is next!
Visit Mixed Roots Movement to view the photography exhibit

MSNBC -Multi-racial in America

2008-05-29T14:08:00.001-04:00

MSNBC: Multiracial in America

Thought you might enjoy this online documentary of sorts which explores the mixed race experience.
Multiracial in America

Blue Eyed Black babies

2008-05-23T02:31:00.003-04:00

Blue-Eyed Black Babies

I started this blog in 2006 when my daughter was just about a year and half. I didn't anticipate that my child who is mixed race,
3/4 black and 1/4 white, would be so light, have light hair and light eyes. I also didn't anticipate the attention she would draw.

I'm sure you all have the seen the black- quite brown skinned- baby who has blue eyes, right? Well I recently found this on youtube and thought I'd share. I bet his parents didn't anticipate a genetic throw back either, they have a quite brown skinned baby with crystal blue eyes.

Malcolm & Marley

2008-05-22T23:42:00.013-04:00

Malcolm & Marley

Malcolm & Marley

Malcolm X, born Malcolm Little in 1925 in Omaha Nebraska. This month of May is the month he was born and he'd be 83 years of age if he were living. When I was at university, it intrigued me when I learned he was mixed-race. His mother was biracial and looked white and her father---Malcolm's grandfather--- was a white man. Learning this fact, gave me confidence, to feel black, be black and live my black experience, as mixed up as it was.

I grew up with both parents in the home, a white mother and a black father. My father is an only child, therefore, I didn't have extensive family relations with my black family. Consequently, my family and reference of an extended family was primarily white. Additionally, I went to a school made up of white students. I lived in a racially-mixed neighborhood. Yet I was still odd-out with both whites and blacks in the neighborhood because I was half of one or half of the other.

I believe the void of not connecting to, or being around my black people was realized and actually manifest itself when I went off to school. The truth is also, while in college, I didn't find a place where I could be mixed and I certainly couldn't be white. The campus was very segregated, just as much and I dare say moreso than the communities off campus. I eventually experienced an identity shift or a full-on embracing of my blackness. Although, I was taught by my parents that I am black, I know I'm black-- but I’m white as well—but I didn't fit in with the black kids growing up, because I was part white. I was the mixed kid in the neighborhood, and I was the mixed-black girl at school. I didn’t really fit in with the white kids because I was part black. I actually spent from 2nd grade until graduation in that white school, so by the time I reached college, I was apparently eager to embrace my blackness and be accepted by my black peers. So it was decided.. I was black. Wow! It’s a perpetual merry-go-round and if you think this paragraph makes your head spin, try living the experience!

Another pop culture influence, which proved significant, was the television show ---A Different World--- you remember that one right? Whitley, Duane, Denise and the gang. The original lead character role of Denise Huxtable, was played by Lisa Bonet. Bonet, appeared clearly mixed to me, but as usual, she was cast to play a mono-racial black girl. That was the “one-drop rule” in effect again. The same goes for Jasmine Guy as Whitley. But, that show and the casting of the mixed-race youth --pigeon holing or not--gave many mixed girls, especially those of a black/white mix, who struggled with racial identity, it gave us a certain confidence and place in the black student body. I enjoyed having a racial home among my peers, finally! I believe because the premise of the show was the college experience, it was something that was very relatable to all mixed girls at that time. On the flip-side of that liberating experience, it was not so great when I went home for visits. My mother was dumbfounded, because she didn't recognize the girl wearing the onk, with the (magnet) nose ring, toe ring and a new view on history and racial-identity.

It wasn't until later when I learned about Malcolm X being of mixed-race and Bob Marley being biracial-- like me-- that I took a studder step and began to reflect upon, what being mixed meant to me. I began a journey to discover it was ok to be mixed. The journey actually still continues. Every day when I have conversations with people who come to me because the want to be apart of Mixed Roots Movement, or when I'm giving a speech about the mixed-race experience, even as I interview people for my book, I discover something new about myself and my experience. I enjoy the exploration and the opportunities to teach others about the mixed-race experience. I'm excited about my role in building and watching a movement grow that is serving so many families and mixed-race people. It is at times overwhelming- but many times more rewarding, especially when the opportunity to inform mono-racial people about the mixed-race experience presents itself.

I'm a few days late with this.... Happy Birthday br. Malcolm- May 19

This month also happens to be the month in which -Nesta-Bob Marley died.
Marley was only 36 years of age when he died of cancer on May 11, 1981.

It goes without saying that Marley was an incredible poet and was known to move people through is lyrics and music. I am merely among the millions that was moved. Specifically so, by something he was quoted as saying relating to his being mixed:

"My father was a white and my mother was black. Them call me half-caste or whatever. Me don't dip on nobody's side. Me don't dip on the black man's side nor the white man's side. Me dip on God's side, the one who create me and cause me to come from black and white ."

-Bob Marley

I love this quote and I while I do "dip" from time to time. I always go back to this truth.
It's the place where I'm most comfortable, resting in my mixed roots, just being me and dipping on God's side! A motto I love... Out of Many We Are ONE. That phrase means a lot to me.

Hope you enjoy a little Bob Marley- It's what I'll be listening to this Memorial Day weekend
enjoy!

Ganging up on Sen. Obama

2008-05-15T23:29:00.002-04:00

Ganging up on Sen. Obama

Well it's happening, as the numbers are crunched and it looks like Obama may really seal the deal and get the nomination. The attacks and slants get even more gritty and silly.

What? Are you kidding me?!! What is with President Bush? Can someone besides Elisabeth Hasselbeck from the view please explain it to me....because I'm tired of hearing her spout her single minded, one way street, narrow minded, proBush proclamations.

Bush actually compared "Democrats" to a Nazi-Appeaaser while in Israel for the 60th anniversary!
Humm, who's he talking about? What's he talking about, what a joke.
He doesn't say "Obama" right out so who's he talking about?
Half the country... Carter, Obama, Clinton, JFK just who is he talking about.
Appeaser I don't think so....but a level headed, educated, brilliant THINKER.....
One who sees merit in having a dialogue with hostile nations.. Well, I say it might be a better approach than that one of a cowboy boot wearing, strut'n around kicking up dirt... itchy trigger finger having dude at the helm. We know what that gets us... a mortage crises, a food crisis, oil crisis, enviornmental issues denial, invasion, ignoring DARFUR.
Even McCain slipped up saying the "war" is over OIL.

I'm on a rant and I know it, so I'll just throw this in too.... If Rev. Wright sounds looney and hateful,
what does Bush sound like referring to Democratic leaders in this way on foreign soil no-less?
Is our government so split and divided that our President goes to such a low to refer to Democrats in this way and then all reps of the Republican party deny that it was a reference to Democrats! Okay, then Wright didn't mean the government when he said the "government" then. It's a unbelievable that riduBush made these statements before a foreign legislative.

The political games drive me nuts.

What again? Sen. Barack Obama's visit to Michigan was overrun by a slip - I'm annoyed with the reporter who chose to slant it negatively and blow it up around the nation to be the talk of the nation. Come on Peggy Agar! You filed your report with a negative slant, saying "this sweetie never did get an answer to that question". Your style of shouting out a question was a bit disruptive and distracting to what was going on. Seemed to me like you were the only one sort of heckling the presidential candidate for an comment while someone was talking to him. Respectfully, it didn't seem like the best time to get an answer to a question. I've been in those shoes...an egar reporter trying to get the exclusive or the get of the day, be the one who asks the important question and GET the answer. It's reported that Agar wasn't even aware of all the rage over the story. As a reporter, Peggy had to know that the way the story was filed, that it would bring sparks to the afternoon news around the region if not the nation.

I think being called "sweetie" is far less and issue that would be "chick" or "lady" He could have called you Ma'am! As soon as I saw the piece I knew what was to follow and this is my rant... and I'm annoyed that WXYZ decided to make that NEWS and that you sought to exploit it.
Do I favor Sen. Barack Obama, yes. Would I feel this annoyed if this exact story was about McCain, honestly no. But would I think that it making news, negative news for McCain at that would be ridiculous... Absolutely. The fact of the matter is with Barack Obama- it seemed like it's a term he just uses and probably often with no disrespect intended.
Some may use the argument that he'd wouldn't refer to Sen. Hilary Clinton that way. I don't think he would because the climate of their communications are different. I say it was a innocent error. I mean think about it. Do you really believe that a
mixed-race Man of COLOR would go about referring to women - and especially white women -in a way that would warrant such negative attention, that would call for a necessary apology! Paaleeaasse.
He did end his "hold on sweetie sentence with .....thanks!"

But kudos to Sen. Obama for this:

"Hi Peggy. This is Barack Obama. I'm calling to apologize on two fronts. One was you didn't get your question answered and I apologize. I thought that we had set up interviews with all the local stations. I guess we got it with your station but you weren't the reporter that got the interview. And so, I broke my word. I apologize for that and I will make up for it.

"Second apology is for using the word 'sweetie.' That's a bad habit of mine. I do it sometimes with all kinds of people. I mean no disrespect and so I am duly chastened on that front. Feel free to call me back. I expect that my press team will be happy to try to make it up to you whenever we are in Detroit next." -

Hope the fact that he referred to you by your first name only doesn't become the next slanted filed report.

And McCain today shifted but no one really knows because Bush was making news in Israel! McCain, now says we can be OUT OF IRAQ and Victorious in 5 years! What happened to the forecasts of decades or 100 years? LoL
Okay, I'm done. Politics... a charged topic wouldn't cha say?

Mixed Experience at Morehouse

2008-05-14T16:16:00.001-04:00

Mixed Experience at Morehouse

The Valedictorian from -HBCUs- Morehouse- Joshua Packwood

Joshua Packwood will graduate on May 18, with a reported perfect 4.0 GPA in economics from the all-male Morehouse college.
This young man's popularity gained him the title dorm president when he was just a freshman. He's a Rhodes Scholar finalist,
he's headed to a well-earned job at a prestigious investment banking firm in New York city, he 22-years-old and
none of that is what makes this information it's most compelling point.... Did you catch that I noted Morehouse as an HBC?
That's a Historically Black College and this kid is white! For the first time in the history of the college, they will graduate a white valedictorian.

Now this is a great mixed experience story. A white guy, at a historically black college, gained the "trust" and popularity of his peers and more importantly an education on perspective! Here's a quote from Joshua:

"I've been forced to see the world in a different perspective, that I don't think I could've gotten anywhere else," he said. "None of the Ivies, no matter how large their enrollment is, no matter how many Nobel laureates they have on their faculty ... none of them could've provided me with the perspective I have now."

I'm happy to know he rejects the notion that he was accepted to Morehouse as a "token white recruit" but instead was selected based on his merits. As I delved deeper into his story, I learned that he has mixed-race siblings and his mother was married a "brotha". What's funny is his freshman roommate- an African American- came to Morehouse looking to get a "black experience" after growing up being one of the few blacks in the schools he attending prior to high school graduation and he's gets roomed with the ONLY white kid in the class.

I wonder who'll get the rights to their story?! Sounds like a good movie to me!

information for this blog obtained from cbs.com

Mixed & Mistaken for Egyptian

2008-05-13T11:03:00.006-04:00

Mixed & Mistaken for Egyptian

Today, when I took my daughter to Montessori, I saw a woman that I thought was mixed like me. Then I realized she was the same woman I had inquired about a few months ago. Yep, I inquired- I'm always curious to know if someone is mixed like me. But I learned this woman is Egyptian. It was curious to me how much she look mixed like me - black and white.

Over the years I have often been mistaken for many ethnicities, including Egyptian. Literally, people would begin a conversation with me in complete Arabic. Naturally, I'd be at a loss, not able to speak Arabic. I didn't know anyone from Egypt, thus didn't have a tangible comparison as to why I was often mistaken as Egyptian- but I always thought it was cool.
I had however, known a few Moroccans and I could certainly see how people thought I may be Moroccan from time to time. And going to Puerto Rico... forget about it. Let me just say this.... I REALLY need to learn to speak Spanish.
But on being mistaken for Egyptian, one day it happened- one day- I saw a young woman, who looked so much like me, that it was strangely odd to see someone who resembled me so much.

Later that same day, a friend told me that they mistook someone else for me. I laughed and asked "who was it?", already suspicious that it had to be the same woman I had seen earlier. So as we strolled around the isles of the convention, only a few moments elapsed before we crossed paths with my look-a-like. Sure enough this woman and I could have been sisters! She Egyptian and me a mix of black and white. We looked so much alike, but our origins and roots are from different places on the globe... or are they? You see, the deep details of my heritage are still a mystery to me- a project/investigation I'll launch soon- but the current info I have is simply I'm of Irish and African decent. Well...Egypt is an African nation- who knows, a portion of my roots could very well be there I don't think it's likely, because it's pretty certain that my African heritage is West African not North African. In any event, it will be interesting to finally gain the knowledge. This project won't be an easy task- but the rewards will be profound. I wonder why it is that saying and knowing that I'm American is not enough for me.

Occassionally, I see Hoda Kotb on NBC, and I slip into it again, thinking, hey she's mixed like me.... I googled her and yep you guessed it, no she's not mixed like me, she too is Egyptian! So I've got to get going on the "finding my mixed roots" project.

I have located photographs of my grandparents. I just aquired a photo of my great grand parents- my mother's grandparents- I didn't know them at all, infact I had to ask my mother, "what are their names?" I did however, know my great grandmother on my father's side. She was Leola, called Lola and I affectionately and respectfully referred to her as "BigMama"
I'll soon share images of my great-grands. But for now- take a look at Hoda Kotb-Egyptian- but she sure looks mixed like me.

2008-05-11T22:29:00.008-04:00

Honor thy Mother- Mothers Day and Everyday!

My mother with my daughter Winter of '07
I love them both sooo much!

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams-MixedRoots

My daughter and I - Being her Momma is by far the most important and biggest blessing of my life.

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams-MixedRoots

2008-05-07T22:01:00.001-04:00

Mildred Loving Dies at age 68!

Mildred (Jeter) Loving, a celebrated woman in the mixed-race community passed on -according to a published report by the
Washingtonpost.com- from pneumonia on Friday, May 2, 2008.
She and her husband Richard Loving represented so many millions of people.
Her actions for fairness helped to change this nation. I am grateful for her, her family and what she represented.
Ms. Mildred Loving... Rest in Peace our love.

2008-04-25T23:08:00.004-04:00

Rising Star

I saw this child on the Today show last year and while you can view that clip on YouTube, the code is not available to paste.
But alas, I recently I found this one from another show.

Gabi Wilson a mixedrooter and she loves to sing. Her father is in a band so she's been exposed to music since she was a baby.
This ten-year old child plays SEVEN instruments!

2008-04-22T11:43:00.007-04:00

BARACK OBAMA, YouTube Fest

Ok, Today is a pivotal day in the campaign.... Pennsylvania!
In Michigan our vote didn't count, so as a result on primary days I get a bit anxious. Because today could truly make or break this thing... how about a lil' Obama YouTube FestEnergy hoping it reaches the energy fields of people in the great state of PA.

MAKE A CHANGE... MAKE A DIFFERENCE "MICHAEL JACKSON"

WAITING ON THE WORLD TO CHANGE.."JOHN MAYER"

Jin- Open Letter to Obama (song)

WAITING ON THE WORLD TO CHANGE ( with media clips )

"FEELS LIKE CHANGE"

Ok as noted previously, I'm a BIG boxing fan... Huge. So when I came across this.. I loved it.
I thought this was quite funny and cleaver. Enjoy!
Pe@ce,

BARACKY - another one

And of course the most famous of YouTube Videos supporting Sen. Barack Obama

Art Imitating Life- the genetic factor-Appreciation

2008-04-10T18:40:00.008-04:00

Art Imitating Life- the genetic factor

To my delight I saw this and was taken by the illustration by -a cuban artist-Ruben Toledo. The illustration graces the cover of the Nordstrom catalogue this month- and depicts a woman of color with blue/grey eyes. While gazing at it, I began to think about the wonders of how genetics function in making up a person's appearance. Part of my draw was not only the beauty of this illustration, but because the eyes of the woman in the illustration reminded me of my own daughter's eyes. I began to wonder was this illustration inspired by a woman Toledo knows? Is she of mixed race? Is she Cuban and do many Cubans have these characteristics. Then I stopped....and just appreciated the illustration and the wonder of genetics. So often people can become lost in how to classify a person, as opposed to appreciating the wonders of genetics.

Condolences to Corinne Bailey Rae

2008-04-10T00:53:00.003-04:00

Condolences to Corinne Bailey Rae from Mixed Roots Movement

A devastated Corinne Bailey Rae, 29, buried her young husband a week ago. Jason Rae,31, was found dead on March 22 of a presumed drug overdose. An unidentified man was arrested -then freed on bail-on suspicion of supplying drugs to Jason Rae. Corinne and her husband married in 2001.

Race on my mind again

2008-04-09T23:36:00.006-04:00

Race on my mind again

This race subject -as a result of comments made by Rev. Wright- is still brewing amongst pundits as well journalist and bloggers.
I must admit that I haven't heard the comments in their entirety nor have I read a transcript, but as I posted previous I strongly believe that people should have some understanding of why many in a community- black people- have a particular feeling.

So here's an example of why there are people who have particular feelings about their experiences. I am a big boxing fan.
I recently learned some things.... How Joe Louis was treated by the United States government. When you've live in a time to experience these sorts of things and the experiences are based soley on your heritage and skin color....heck you're bond to have some feelings about it decades later. Understanding is all I'm suggesting...empathy.

Here's a promo to an HBO special-- JOE LOUIS: AMERICA'S HERO...BETRAYED-- that aired recently. It's interesting that this man carried a responsibility and the burden to represent a community of black people and then that of ALL of America. He was hailed an AMERICAN HERO when he beat the German and lifted the entire country. But was then forced to scrape for pennies as the government took and took from him. The impact of his contributions to the country and it's military were tossed aside and forgotten at a time when they should have meant something. One one hand he was the symbol of freedom and democracy in this country, but he wasn't afforded the freedoms his image represented- a sad story. Read the article above and you'll see comparison of how the German enjoyed MILLIONS with the help of Coca-Cola an American company.

I imagine this tragic story had something to do with why Muhammad Ali - the only human being I'd be in awe of to meet- was so secure in his decisions. It was his faith, yes, but I also believe it was too, in part because of how Joe was treated- I guess Ali said he served and was still treated like a dirty rag, so I'll be true to me, my faith and God and let the chips fall where they may...and sure enough he got GOT too, until the Supreme Court ruled in Ali's favor. Watch the documentary on Joe Louis if you can find it. I think this documentary alone could help many understand how people could feel the way they do.

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

Mixed Race Babies... in style...a fad?

2008-04-02T22:51:00.003-04:00

Mixed Race Babies... in style... a fad?

I've conducted a lot of interviews with biracial people for a project and in one interview-conducted in 2007- a woman said that a lot of her friends are actively seeking and make it known that they would like to marry inter-racially and have mixed babies. I found that interesting and a complex notion. On one had, was it a fad in that part of the nation, I wondered. One the other hand, I wondered if things were so different there that people were trying to "acquire" a mixed race child. None the less, just today I discovered that this notion may be quite real and running ramped in some areas. Not sure what to think of it myself really, but I thought I'd post this video I just came across today as proof of this apparent phenomenon.
Absolutely Fabulous - Series 5 - Mixed Race Baby

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

Much ado about nothing...really

2008-04-01T23:44:00.011-04:00

Much Ado about Nothing...really

My daughter-at age two- decided for herself that she was a supporter of Barack Obama. I promise you that for nearly two weeks in the winter of '08 she didn't mention Mickey Mouse much at all. The squeaky voice friend, got slipped to the back burner for the silky voice political figure called Barack Obama. One day just months shy of her 3rd birthday, she literally said "lets turn on the TV and see if Barack Obama is on Mumma" I was shocked and didn't know how to respond, I looked at her stunned, she smiled and said come on... lets see him, is he on! That request was far more sophisticated than the occasional recognition she would give when she'd catch a glimpse of him on TV and say his name without a single mis-pronunciation in her proclamation. Or when she would see an American flag anywhere...she'd say "look Mumma, it's for Barack Obama." I thought, ok she has some how, somewhere along the way determined that he and the flag are connected in theory some how. I thought how astute of her.

So this past weekend when I was searching barackobama.com for volunteer opportunities, I stumbled across an amazing opportunity to take a picture with him. I thought what a historical moment and wild opportunity that would be! Then I realized, of course that it was too good to be true. It was actually, that you could take a photo with a life size cut-out image of Barack Obama. I thought well in anycase it would be fun.... so when I asked my daughter- now three years of age- and oh so independent- would you like to go take a picture with Barack Obama? She replied, "yes, today?" I said, "yes, we can go as soon as we get ready". When I glanced through the options of what she could wear, I eyed jeans and a dress. She decided on wearing a dress and wouldn't settle for anything else. And nearly had a meltdown when I got a splash of water on it. I thought what is going on with her today. Well of course, she believed she was going to meet THE Barack Obama. When we arrived to the destination, she saw that silly ole' cut-out of him. She could care less that it was life sized. She asked every one in the place, "Where is Barack Obama?" "Is he behind that curtain?" "EXCUSE ME" "When is he coming out?" I felt so bad, I had to find a way to explain, delicately of course, that Mr. Obama wasn't actually there, but we could take a picture next to his picture. She wasn't too happy about it, but reluctantly did so. Later, when asked about her day and if she met Barack Obama, she told her granddaddy - my dad- "he didn't talk, it was just his picture" I believe she felt... "and I missed my nap today for this!"

Well it's a memory and a keepsake if nothing else.

International photograher Ifoma continues to offer this "photo op" on Livernois in Detroit. Check out barackobama.com for details. Thanks to my friends Eric and Ifoma for the photo and for the permission to share it on my blog.

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

A New Interest in being mixed

2008-04-01T23:17:00.003-04:00

A New Interest in Being Mixed

An article in the New York Times... interesting. There is a new found attention and light being shown on the mixed race identity and experience.

Bravo to Barack Obama and the divine power that fashioned this -finally forward thinking- dialogue. I don't agree with every aspect of the opinions expressed in the article, but that's the beauty of being mixed and sharing ideas and opinions. It's simply important to build awareness about the experience. There's always work to be done...now let's see where being in this space takes us or where we can direct it... I really don't believe we'd be here- in this space- if it weren't for a biracial presidential candidate named Barack Obama.

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

Leona Lewis- British Biracial singer/songwriter

2008-03-29T00:56:00.010-04:00

Leona Lewis~ British Biracial singer/songwriter

The UK's Fastest selling debut album of all time! It just came to the States. Leona, born in London, her parents are Guyanese Afro-Caribbean, and Anglo-Welsh. At age fifteen, she recorded a version of Minnie Riperton's "Lovin' You". Ok, if you don't remember or didn't even know...it was hitting those notes--the Minnie Riperton notes--that put Mariah on tha map. In 2006 Leona was the winner of the UK show --similar to American Idol-- called The X Factor. Simon Cowell is also a judge on that show. Simon mentored Leona and says he just loves this girl and thinks she is completely great. LEONA'S WEBSITE

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

The Power of Diversity... at birth

2008-03-28T12:17:00.010-04:00

The Power of Diversity...at birth!

I'm always thinking from a diverse perspective.

This diversity.. how is it attained and why do I often have difficulty in understanding why others don't or can't do the same. At some point, I guess I recognized that not everyone can manage that 'unique' perspective or that for some it takes a quite valiant effort to do so. The best hypothesis I've accepted is...As a biracial person, embracing "diversity" comes natural for me. I can't avoid it, really, I can't. even if I wanted to... it's just one of those things that is a part of me. I was born a symbol of diversity. I am diversity. The mere fact that people consistently have asked "what are you?" or "where are you from" reflects that I'm not easily categorized or put into a box. Yet there's always been the pressure to have me try. My diversity is different than a mono-racial woman who is: a mom, a wife, sister, a friend, an architect, a traveler, a writer, an antique collector, a gardener and so on. Yes, this is a description of a woman with diverse interests or a diverse background. Yet race and religion somehow really speak to a specific diversity that draws a note. So having said this... I've been noted all my life.

My existence and tools of navigation in life are rooted in profound diversity. I choose to relate to my diversity as a gift. I believe that a particular amount of responsibility comes with the gifts we each are given. Looking at my life's journey, I can't ignore that, the journey has it's purpose. I am and have been awakening to my life's purpose and I am thrilled and excited. I know it seems like a cliche to say, but the truth is, after the birth of my daughter, I look at life with an illuminated vision. There was an awakening of my mixed roots that over came me. The things I've written about, thought about and even kept to myself for years and years, have all found their way from their independant paths on the map of my life, to one path. It's all coming together.

There's power in motherhood- something happens when you give birth and then look at your child. My thoughts, opinions and interests have not changed, however how I approach it all has been altered into sheer action and purpose. Suddenly, I'm operating as though I'm on a deadline, after giving birth to my child. The "oh wouldn't that be nice" attitude has all but vanished and the mode of "I've got to do this", "it's time to do this" and "who is gonna do it if I don't" has taken over. And the beauty is, I'm moved by the desire to make a difference and bridge stubborn gaps not only for my daughter, but for all children, of all races, ethnicity and religion.

It's noteworthy to recognize that a formative flicker happened when I was immensely inspired by Sen. Barack Obama in the summer of 2004, when he opened his speech making reference to his diversity..his MIXED ROOTS. Mr. Barack Obama, I thank you for recognizing your gifts to influence polarizing positions towards unity and peace. Furthermore, thank you for taking up the responsibility of sharing, educating others and having faith that a racial & cultural background like yours, like mine, like ours and millions of others has a rightful and important place in American and world history. I stood before the television as you delivered your KEYNOTE ADDRESS, --you know the one...that they say made you a star-- in 2004 at the DNC. Already emotional-- with pregnancy hormones bursting about-- I became openly emotional as the truth and passion of your speech resonated with me, gave me chills and brought me to tears. Thank you, for your part in nurturing an awakening seed in me, that I could be aware and open to it's purpose when my daughter was born. Thank you for inspiring me.

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

Where is the Empathy?

2008-03-25T20:01:00.014-04:00

Where is the Empathy?

What is slowly being revealed as a result of this wacky political presidential contest is not surprising to me. This country, sadly, still has deep rooted issues with race relations, especially between blacks and whites. As a biracial woman: having a black father and white mother, I have had many, many years to consider the aspects of what affects race relations and witness race relations from a unique biracial perspective.

Why is the Pastor Wright topic such a hot topic? Why aren't the many politicians who are supported by Bob Jones University or the preachers who support and live by the Bob Jones way - which are many- why aren't they scrutinized or pressured to disown or denounce Bob Jones University or their pastor who may have even graduated from that university? I reference Bob Jones, because I know pastors, preachers and full body congregations support and follow the beliefs they teach.
I know this because I went to a school from grade one to graduation that was a feeder school to BJ! Yeah, my experiences... you can read about in my book.

One side of the racial line seems to be permitted to use a holy book to justify racial bias and prejudices. While another side is taken to task for having feelings about that and many other ideals and actions against them.

One point- Wright noted that the government may have been responsible for the spread of the HIV virus. That is shocking and frightening to many, but consider many African Americans were shocked by the lynchings, being hosed down in the streets, being dragged from their beds, crosses being burned in the front yard of their homes and a host more adversity, abuse and offensives committed against them simply because of the shade of their skin. I would say it's probably a bit difficult to remain 100% patriotic after experiencing so much at the hands of your countrymen.

What other group of people are expected to become numb and dumb to their experiences?
I'm not saying fighting fire with fire is right, nor am I saying that Wright's comments are excusable. But what I am saying is before people jump to judge, consider the frame of reference from which a person speaks- Huckabee did!

A difference in perspective is clouding the real issue here. I think a benefit of doubt is in order on this one. I can understand why members of the older generations or any person who has lived the black experience in this country still have an immense amount of anger. Sit tight... I'll give you something that speaks to this in a second.

What is difficult to understand is how the Clinton's have taken the position they have on this issue. One of they can't understand how someone could make some of the comments made. You know, it was President Bill Clinton's seemingly understanding and empathy of the unlawful suffering inflicted upon many people in the black community that gained he AND Hilary the respect and admiration of the black community. President Clinton's apology for ONE OFFENSIVE activity against black men and their families in this country. Now the Clinton's suddenly can't understand where Wright's comment's might come from? I would think, if Hilary was being honest, rather than choosing to jump at a chance to dig into the dirt and sling mud she would have noted something that may have echoed Huckabee's remarks. Here is more about the Tuskegee Experiment (what Bill Clinton apologized for) and a peek into why some black people just may carry a particular amount of anger-- FOUR DECADES OF SILENCE-- why there just may be a host of distrust and anger that flashes back or flares up within the black community. I am a firm believer that the "fear of black men" in this country has origins from the fear that they would seek revenge for the aggressions committed against them and their families NOT because they are violent. That notion comes from somewhere and this makes sense to me.

Hilary Clinton is attempting to shift and spin the focus from her "misspoken" statements about her arrival in Bosnia, back to the Wright story and statements. She stated that you can't choose your family, but you can choose your (church) or pastor. Then she went on to say he wouldn't have been her pastor. I say this...You can't choose the country you're born in either, but in spite of the treatment blacks have endured in this country, the black community still finds a way to love and be patriotic. Some still harbor anger and while it's probably not the most healthy way to deal with the history and hurt and even current issues, I think it's certainly understandable and people might like to stop and try to understand where the hurt comes from. Some hurt and offenses leave scars so horribly deep that they are felt for generations.

There's got to be more understanding and empathy for the experience of blacks in this country. Many feel apologies for the hundreds of years of offenses are great, but compensation towards the advancement of a people such as: reparations, tax breaks or college tuition would really move our nation towards repair, healing and ultimate forgiveness. African Americans invested and helped to build the USA and the wealth of "some" of its people, while the African Americans themselves didn't receive much in return. The position the black community was given in this society was quite dubious and is still reflective in ghettos across the nation. It's a fact that African Americans weren't afforded equal opportunities and some may rightfully debate opportunities still aren't equal. Ok, so back to that note about investment... Every investment should yield some return, right?

© 2008 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

Exhibit & Presentation- May 2008

2008-03-22T05:22:00.009-04:00

Exhibit & Presentation- May 2008

I've been a busy mixed rooter, developing and producing projects and initiatives that support building awareness of the mixed race experience. I was born during the year of the riots in Detroit so it's as though I was destined to make a difference and be a bridge between differences. It's not always an easy role, but now more than ever I'm driven to do something...I must to help create an enviornment that is more understanding for my daughter and those of mixed roots between my generation and hers.
And beyond that I am passionate about reaching a real space where people of all race, ethnicity and religion are valued.

I'm a big believer that the arts are capable of shaping perceptions. Not all art reflects reality. I rarely if at all saw reflections of myself, my racially mixed family and my experience on tv or in film- quite frustrating ya know.
I'm hosting an exhibit/film festival this spring in an effort to provoke new thought.

Photo test

2006-09-17T21:53:00.003-04:00

Who is behind MixedRoots?

2006-07-21T01:53:00.009-04:00

Who is behind MixedRoots?

Trina Fatimah Williams

A creative arts enthusiast, T is a graduate of the University of Michigan. While studying Communications at the university she was selected to participate in a study-abroad at the University of West Indies on the island of Jamaica. This was the first exchange program to Jamaica for the University of Michigan, making her among the trailblazers in this regard. It was her travels to the island that peaked her love for the arts. It was then she adopted photography as a hobby. Just prior to graduating she was selected from a long list of hopefuls to work in the sports department at the NBC affiliate in Detroit, Michigan (WDIV). There, she gained the opportunity to prove that she could do more than just “get the coffee” and record stats. She landed the highly sought after first interview with a tight lipped Byron Sanders, brother of NFL hall of famer Barry Sanders during the Detroit Lions’ training camp. It had been rumored that his brother got him in and he was hopeful to earn spot on the team.

Ms. Williams went on to become a freelance writer/photographer. Her works have been published in a Washington Post owned magazine and newspaper, the Michigan Chronicle newspaper and on NBA.com. She appeared in Crain's Detroit Business, for her position with the Michigan Chronicle newspaper. She became the first ever Marketing and Promotions manager for the newspaper. She successfully drew in a younger readership for the publication by developing a hot new “Living” section, which catered to the “BET/MTV” generation. She has also been seen in Black Enterprise Magazine.

Maintaining her love for creativity, in addition to her portrait photography, www.imagesforlifephotography.com; she is working on developing great things for Mixed Roots, producing exciting and compelling photo-documentaries as well as two books.

For many years, Williams wanted to do something to support and serve the mixed race community. Growing up, she was frustrated with the television and film industry for not representing the mixed-race family and the unique personal and social experiences associated with being biracial or inter-racially married.

"Mixed" comes from her biracial heritage, and "Roots" comes from the history of her family name ~ Freeman. Her paternal blood line is rooted to slavery until her distant ancestors became free. Once free, they adopted a name to reflect such freedom ~ FREE MAN. Mixed Roots is her way to celebrate the diversity and diverse unions.

"Be open to conceive something different." -- T F Williams

© 2006 T. Fatimah Williams -MixedRoots

My Blue-Eyed Black Baby

2006-07-21T01:00:00.014-04:00

My Blue-Eyed Black Baby...

Blue-Eyed Black Girl
How many do you know?
-By T. Fatimah Freeman Williams

When my husband and I were dating we sat in a picture booth – the kind that takes your pictures then gives you a computer generated “idea” of what your child may look like.
Although we didn’t think the computer got it right, I saved that photo and looked at it from time to time, dreaming of becoming pregnant. As far as what our baby would look like, we came up with our own ideas. All bets were that the baby would have honey brown skin- somewhere between my light caramel tone and my husband’s dark copper brown tone. The baby’s might have warm brown hair - possibly with natural highlights, brown eyes and hopefully my husbands extra long eyelashes and dimples.

Well, we’d have to wait a while to see our baby because my journey to become pregnant after we were married was a long and emotional one. Becoming pregnant at thirty-seven, as any “older mom” can understand, I didn’t put much energy into speculating what the baby would look like. I was more concerned with having a healthy baby.

When our daughter arrived, her skin was nearly white, but that really wasn’t odd, lots of babies -of color-black and brown are born light and then their skin gets darker as the days pass by. Likewise, the eyes can be light and then get darker too. Moments after the nurse looked at my daughter, I overheard her say to the other nurse, “Look at her hair, I’ve never seen blond tips on a baby before”.

I still hadn’t gotten a good look at her because the nurses took her immediately after delivery so I was trying to imagine what they were talking about. I looked at my husband hoping for a play-by-play commentary of what he could see, but I think he momentarily forgot about me, as he just stared at our daughter. So there I was living the moments following a cesarean, waiting to be introduced to my baby. The moments seemed like hours. When the nurses brought my baby over to me she was wearing one of those cute little baby hats so I didn’t notice her hair. But as it turned out our daughter's hair look light brown with blond on the tips of what quickly grew to be curls. I did however, notice her eyes. They looked really light but I assumed they’d get darker over the next few days. I hadn't been that close to a newborn so early in their little life so I thought maybe that’s how all babies’ eyes look at birth. Meanwhile I was totally preoccupied with kissing her, talking to her and beginning the long awaited bond of baby nursing from her mama.

The next few days came and went, as did the next few weeks. Her eyes were blue and her skin was white. My sister looked closely at baby’s nail cuticles saying ‘I’m looking to see how dark her cuticles are, maybe she’ll be as dark as they are” “I thought that’s how it usually works, but her cuticles don’t have much color”, I answered.

During a well-baby visit our pediatrician looked closely at her and noticed her eyes then looked at me and asked “Who has blue eyes in your family?” I replied, “My mother does… I think they’re blue or bluish green”
“Do you think they’ll stay this color doctor?” I asked. “It’s difficult to say, they could stay blue or they could change even up to one years time,” said the doctor.

Soon after that my mother-in-law reminded me that several of her twelve siblings have light eyes and while she and her husband both have black/brown eyes her youngest child, which is my husband’s youngest brother also has light colored eyes. Well, they aren’t blue or gray I guess they’re what you’d call hazel. So although my husband and I each have brown eyes we obviously have a light eye gene – a recessive gene.

As time continued to pass by people began to speculate if and when the color of her eyes may change. At first we’d smile and go along with the conversation, but after twelve months, when conversation turned to “will they change”, my husband would peacefully squash it by quickly saying, “if they change they change, as long as she can see well”.

If her eyes weren’t being talked about then it was her hair color. There was quite a bit of attention being paid to the baby's "looks". Sometimes her hair looks red, while other times it looks blond and then brown and back to red again. My sister swore I was manipulating her hair color in photos with some kind of photo software, but I had not. It reminded me of when I was a girl not even old enough to drive yet and strangers would ask me what color I used on my hair.

One day in the airport a Hispanic woman starred at my baby and finally said, “she’s so beautiful, look at her, her hair- those curls and those eyes. She continued, “Where’d she get that blond hair?” I replied, “well mine is quite light too- especially after being in the sun, but my mom had blond hair when she was young and then it turned red.” The woman said, “She’s got it all, even dimples! She’s lucky, but she’s gonna have it rough” I thought, “Ok what does that mean?” But deep inside I knew exactly what she meant.

I have a Chaldean friend; she has several children all of whom are healthy and beautiful. One day as she looked at my daughter, she said to me “You’re so lucky, she has beautiful light eyes”. I said “why am I lucky” “I wish just one of my kids has light eyes, my husband does” she replied. I said “well both my husband and I have brown eyes so our daughter's eyes are a big surprise to us”. She again said, “You’re just lucky”. I still didn’t understand my luck in it, but we had moved on to another topic anyway. Months later, nearly a full year later she brought up the subject again saying, “do you think my grandchildren have a chance at having light eyes?” I answered, “well I’m no expert on this light eyes thing, but I believe a person must have two parents who either have light eyes or both parents must have a light eye gene (that recessive gene).”
Filled with spontaneous excitement she said, “ well my husband has green eyes, his parents and I have two grandparents that had light eyes”. I didn’t know what else to say, but “well there ya go”

I’ve come to terms with the fact that people are drawn to our child. Begining when she was four-months-old people would come up to her and talk to her as if I weren’t even there. The most shocking though is that men have approached her as well; one even went as far as giving her the affectionate squeezing of the baby cheeks. Now, I found that to be strange that men would talk to and reach out to touch a baby that they didn’t even know.

It became so frequent that woman would comment on how beautiful or cute she is, it would honestly make me feel uncomfortable at times because these women would admire my baby from behind their own child’s stroller. I finally came up with a quick response saying, “yes they’re all so beautiful aren’t they, and we’re so blessed.” And saying that phrase helped me feel more comfortable because I included their child in the adoration.

I’m beginning to wonder what the impact of her bright eyes, dark blond hair and fair skin will have on her life, negatively or positively. How will she be treated, favorably, hatefully or fairly? Most likely it will be all of the above.

Global society finds itself in a structure which places people into social categories, be it economical, ethnic, religious or other. When people who sort of blur the racial category lines come along-- you know people with mixed roots --it somehow challenges what and how people think about race. And what's more is sometimes people don't know how to deal with the mixed race person.. I don't really know how to explain it but I know it to be true because I’m a mixed race woman myself and I have lived the "experience".

As a mix of black and white, I've been told "you have the best of both worlds", or "you have access to priviledges that I don't".
It's a delicate dance one does in life, feeling like you belong to both, but also feeling that you really don't fit in fully to either. While I must admit I have definitely recognized times in life where being light skinned afforded some "privileges" along life’s way, it can also be a constant thorn in your side and work the other way on you. I was often asked what are you, who is white in your family, or people would speak to me in Spanish, Arabic and even French. One person had the audacity to become visibly annoyed with me when I replied to them in English. I believe that stranger thought I was just refusing to speak what they assumed was my native language. I’ve also experienced negative treatment from African American’s just because I’m light skinned and being mixed adds another element of issue (having a white mother) So in my skin I see both sides of racism and it’s not pretty.

I do understand all this is just the nature of people. We're just trying to figure things out as we go. Some people are nice, some are not. Some people could care less what your racial, ethnic or religious background is and to others it means a lot. It's just the way of the world and I understand and accept that. But it doesn't change my 'what would the world be like if race, ethnicity and religion weren't things that separate us' vision. For me, I've lived the experience and I managed the best I could. But now it's become an issue in my mind again as a mother to a mixed race child.

What might be the life of a blue-eyed black girl? I don’t have the answers to the future. I only know that my own personal experiences will shape the way I guide her and protect her. I understand blackness and whiteness will play a role in her life, but my hope for my daughter is that she lives her life as a citizen of this world. I do believe because of the way she looks she will be able to connect with people of many colors and ethnic backgrounds worldwide.
And because her look can be borderless- blurring the lines of distinction, people may think she’s of their nationality. That gives her a unique opportunity in this world. If my daughter has a caring attitude and the proper disposition she may be able to affect positive change in the world on some level. Take Barack Obama for example, he is by many standards, a black man, born to a white mother and a black African father. It’s being said that Obama’s appeal to the American people is broader because of his diverse background ethnically, as well as academically. Now I realize my daughter's background is different and her academics have yet to be determined, but I believe the same idea applies. Her appearance screams diversity and that’s exactly why I believe she can have the capacity to connect with many people from many ethnic backgrounds. As a parent, I hope I can meet the challenge to prepare her for whatever lies before her and to know her greatness within. Though she looks like a person caught between two worlds that often collide, I anticipate she will use her common sense guided by her heart, wrapped in her intellect to bridge the often unapparent gaps.

I don’t doubt it for a minute that at some point in her life she’ll put to the test just as I was. With her African American peers it will be to prove her blackness. While with white people, whether she realizes it or not, it’s true she’ll be the safe black friend or associate. She will at times, feel the innate pressure to persuade white people to disarm their minds from the negative perceptions they have about black people. It’s twisted and wrong, but it’s the reality of life in this country and dare I say around the world.

I will do my best to teach her to be secure with who she is, what she looks like and with her mixed roots. I will help her develop ways to define herself that go beyond the color of her skin, hair, or eyes. I’m reminded of a song by India Arie entitled “I am not my hair, I am not this skin, I am not your expectation, I am the soul that lives within”! It talks about not being defined by your hair or other physical attributes and not allowing others to define you by such either. The song is a refreshing reminder to all that, we don't have be defined by our physical attributes.

© 2006 T. Fatimah Williams-MixedRoots