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If you are the parent of a black adolescent boy in the US, there was some very uncomfortable conversations you'll have to have with your son that no parent should ever have to do. But one you must have because it might just be the difference between him being alive or shot dead.
You are going to let him know that he is going to be profiled as a threat because of the deadly combination of his gender and his race. The fact that he is known and accepted in one community does not extend to him the same immunity when in another community.
You are going to let him know that the way he dresses matters. So those teenage hairstyles, hoodies and dressing needs to give way for more formal like wears especially at night. Wearing a hoodie especially at night is a no no.
You are going to have to tell him to be respectful at all times especially when approached by someone from law enforcement. At no time should he make a sudden movement. He must show his hands at all times and affirm that he is willing to obey instructions.
You'll have to tell him that the law is on his side but he can only take advantage of it if he is alive. So even when he feels genuinely aggrieved that his rights are been trampled upon, he shd keep his cool & bottle his anger because he might not be given the benefit of a doubt.
You're going to have to tell him that it's an unfair world but one much better than you met it. That the nation's tainted history of racial inequality have morphed into this modern reality of being judged by perception & not by character. When he grows up, he'll understand better
You are going to tell him that people will call him the N word or the M word to make him angry. But he must never internalize or personalize it. That those who say those words are only trying to project their insecurities. Tell him he'll always be loved by his parents & community
