Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Ta-Nehisi Coates on Obama's grandparents

Read Ta-Nehisi Coates' short and sweet post about Barack Obama's mom's parents, and how they did the right thing in embracing their daughter and grandson despite the race thing.

A dear friend of mine (hi out there!) grew up not knowing her white grandparents because they chose not to accept their daughter's interracial marriage and the three amazing grandchildren it produced. What a terrible, heartrending lesson for those grandparents to give to the kids, from day one. (I've never been quite sure whether the appropriate response is to detest or to pity people whose racism affects others. Maybe both.)

In the 21st century, I hope far more families make the loving choice that the Dunhams—Obama's maternal grandparents—made, and that society heaps disapprobation onto the people who allow racism to circumscribe their lives and community.

1 comment:

Cynical Nymph said...

Just wanted to pop by to say "huzzah!" to your comment at A Little Pregnant a few days ago. I do wish I could take you around in my pocket and pull you out to argue with dumbies.