Stolen Childhood: How Hate And Fear Have Criminalized Black Childhood
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Stolen Childhood: How Hate And Fear Have Criminalized Black Childhood

Black children are forced to prematurely grow up and face the effects of racism simply to survive.

20
Stolen Childhood: How Hate And Fear Have Criminalized Black Childhood
Beyonce - Formation Video

For my youngest brother's eleventh birthday, my boyfriend and I bought him Nerf guns. He was already building his collection and we thought it would be so fun to spend the day running around the house all playing together with him, sneaking around corners and hiding behind doors. It seemed like the perfect gift. He already liked them, and he could play with them inside during the winter, which coincides with his birthday, as well as in summer when it's warm and we could run around the house instead.

On the way to my parents' house to bring my brother his gifts, my friend called. While on the phone discussing the gift my friend says, "I hope you all only plan to play with those inside, because you know even black children don't get the benefit of the doubt these days when playing with toy guns." Reality came crashing down on around me as I was reminded once again that existing in this country as a black person, even a child is sometimes more about surviving than thriving. This seemingly fun gift could also be a hazard to my brother, myself, my entire family.

A toy gun, seems innocent enough but that's what Tamir Rice was playing with in a park when police shot him within two seconds of seeing him without even considering that he could be simply playing with a toy. When you're black, even a child, you're often seen as a threat before you're seen as human, if you ever get that label.

Yet another example of how in this country, you're seen as black before you're seen as anything else, even a child. You're seen for the color of your skin and then immediately considered a threat. Which is why so many black parents are so strict. Just another reason black children don't have the privilege, the luxury of being children. Even in our youngest years, we have to be on guard and on our best behavior. Not allowed to goof off or make mistakes. Because a simple mistake or what's meant to be a goofy fun moment could cost your life.

The innocence of childhood is stolen from black children almost immediately because of hatred and fear. Due to misconceptions and prejudices about the black experience, children are not allowed their right to play freely and innocently because even the most mundane of childhood activities are a danger to black children. This is why we march, this is why we speak out, and this is why we fight for visibility and a better, more equal life.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

55397
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

35687
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

957727
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

185572
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments