Personal Narrative: Imitation Of My Life

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Everything that I am is because I am from Baltimore, Maryland. I am from a place where people that look like me are usually disadvantaged by racism, poor education, and economic deprivations. As a result, there is also high crime, drugs, and incarceration. For years, I watched people including family members struggle with these ills, which plagued our community, fighting to overcome legal trouble, financial trouble, and a lack of leadership and guidance. I can never forget the look of helplessness in my mother’s eyes as we went from one family crisis to the next. I was determined to learn from their experiences and avoid their pitfalls. I decided to put myself in a position to help, not only my family, but also the many good families like mine. …show more content…

Growing up I would always say that I was White and one day I was expose to the movie “ Imitation of Life” to get a better understanding of how proud I should be of being African American. In my eyes I thought that being White was one of the best things on earth. I was brought up around White people; but it was not until I entered into Clark Atlanta University that I realized that being Black is Beautiful. I attended The Seton Keough High School, which is an all girls’ private Catholic school in Baltimore City. Entering into high school I told myself that I would not allow the people I am around to change who I am. There were days where I would question if Seton Keough was the place for me, realizing that I am who I am regardless of the color of my skin and the color of their skin. Prior to attending Clark Atlanta University I was in a state of mind that prevented me from recognizing the injustice of my current situation, which I would consider a false consciousness agenda. Entering into Clark Atlanta University I was in a complete culture shock. After awhile I was able to get use to being around more people like more and myself happier with myself and culture. It was said to me all throughout my college career how important it is to be a Black male or female in the world that we live in today. I personally believe that race plays a major role in our daily lives. Attending a school where there are not many people who look like you around, can be hard at times. You have already been singled out because of the color of your

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