Conversation On Race: A Black Mother's Perspective
May 18, 2021
“You have to be intentional. We treat black people fairly. We treat Asian people fairly. We treat Hispanic people fairly because we are all human beings and we all have the same worth.”
On this episode of the 3D Parent Podcast, we will be diving into the topic of race and parenting and specifically getting a black mother's perspective with our very special guest, Nishea Clark. She is a New Jersey-based mother of two and founder of NVC Consulting. She will be sharing her insight and perspective on race and how that plays a role for her as a parent.
When it comes to conversations about race, it can be a controversial topic. With all of the recent events happening across the world, it’s time we shed light on different perspectives. Especially a black mother’s perspective, as a parent there are already enough challenges and obstacles to face.
In Episode 40 of the 3D Parent Podcast, I want to explore and have a deeper conversation about race and the role it plays for parenting.
Things You Will Learn
[0:04] I'm going to be tackling the topic of race and parenting and specifically getting a black mother's perspective. My guest today is Nishea Clark, who is a New Jersey-based mother of two and founder of NVC Consulting. She received her undergraduate degree in journalism at Northwestern University and her NBA at the Kellogg School of Business, also at Northwestern University.
[9:30] At the end of the day, we're not all gonna get it right. There's intersectionality amongst blacks, colorism issues, and different issues. As an African-American woman, Nishea can say that most of her black friends appreciate it when someone is making an effort or attempting to gain an understanding. There's ignorance by lack of having information.
[17:42] Our hair is our hair. Our color is our color. The way we laugh, the way we walk, the way our perspective about things is beautiful and wonderful.
[22:42] In terms of raising black children in a predominantly white community - the thing with racism that is sometimes the hardest as a black person or a person of color to have to deal with is when it's subtle versus when it's in your face.
[27:10] There are not just issues of whether or not you want to make a scene, but there are issues of physical and emotional safety that you have to take into consideration regularly.
[31:59] We deserve to be here and deserve the things we have and deserve as much as anyone else. And we just have to keep being good people.
[43:55] The burden for Nishea is more in proving her worth, rather than explaining something. Answering genuine questions is no issue, however when it comes to being questioned about how she can afford her house, that brings up resentful emotions. Nobody else is being questioned about this - only her.
[55:54] You have to be intentional. We treat black people fairly. We treat Asian people fairly. We treat Hispanic people fairly because we are all human beings and we all have the same worth.
Episode Resources
The Invisible Load of Motherhood: Mothering Black Children
Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
Quotes From Episode 40
“I remember being shocked. And I remember being really tearful. And I do remember thinking, oh, my gosh, what about the families? For me, it was definitely all about that.”
“Ignorance is having a lack of information. It’s a choice. In that I refuse to acknowledge something else. If it's something that's quite important, I will figure out”
“I hate that we have to have these conversations. I hate the fact that as he gets older and it's coming fast, there will be a time where I have to add additional concerns.”
“It's not your job to educate other people. It's not your job.”
Let's work together! I provide 1:1 support for parents motivated to make positive changing in their parenting and gain confidence and increase fulfillment in their role as parents. If this sounds like it might be what you've been looking for, book a free consultation today.
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