5 Phrases Not To Say To Multiracial People | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

5 Phrases Not To Say To Multiracial People

These are the five phrases that multiracial people are sick of hearing.

447
5 Phrases Not To Say To Multiracial People
Bossip.com

Everyone makes comments without actually thinking about their implications from time to time. Certain ideas are so ingrained in our society that we don't really question what's right or wrong to say. In the case of people like me, people who come from a multiracial background, we hear a lot of highly uncomfortable phrases.

Sometimes, we even hear these phrases uttered by people we know and to whom we are close. While some of these phrases seem relatively harmless, all of them stem from racism in American society, even if the people saying these phrases are not trying to be racist. So, if you would like to learn how to be a better ally to people who are mixed-race, completely eliminate these phrases from your vocabulary. And, even if you aren't mixed, maybe encourage others to give up these common yet racially-charged phrases.

1. "Mixed kids are the cutest! I want mixed kids someday."

Sure, this might seem like a highly positive phrase to the casual observer. However, this phrase implies that mixed kids are some sort of accessory. Mixed kids are people, too, and not some status symbol. And if someone's only motivation for having mixed kids is because they're cute, they are objectifying mixed-race children. And that just isn't cool.

2. "You don't look mixed."

Just like people with just a single racial background, people who are mixed-race have a variety of skin tones, eye colors, hair textures and so on. Therefore, there is no "right" way to appear mixed. By telling someone who is mixed that they don't "look" mixed, that person is erasing someone's racial identity, while also attempting to define someone else's race for them. They're also perpetuating the stereotype that all mixed-race people look the same. You can easily see the variety when you look to Hollywood.

3. "You're so exotic!"

The fetishization of mixed people, especially mixed girls, is a major problem. From people touching our hair without permission, to people expressing how they find mixed people more attractive. It may sound complimentary at first, but it truly isn't. It also implies that being multiracial is somehow unusual or weird, which only fuels people who seek us out like we're some sort of designer puppy.

(Side note: If we were so unusual and "exotic," we wouldn't be the fastest growing racial population in the United States.) The only way to eliminate the fetishization of mixed-race people is to normalize multiracial identities and stop acting like they're so special or exotic.

4. Any racist terms for mixed-race people

Essentially, if you or someone you know uses terms to describe multiracial people that aren't words like "biracial" or "mixed," research what that word means. Chances are, even if it's a widely-used term, it could be a racial slur, even if it sounds harmless at first. The first rule to being a good ally is research, research, research.

5. "So, what are you?"

This is a question that has been asked of me ever since I was a little girl. There is truly nothing wrong with wondering what someone's background is, but this phrasing is so incredibly offensive and invasive, especially when asked by a stranger. It is incredibly dehumanizing because, depending on the tone, this phrase essentially translates to: "There is something weird or wrong with you, but I can't quite place what it is." A more polite way to ask this question would be to say, "Could I ask what your racial background is?"

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

26614
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

11116
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

8227
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments