MsharmaFYS6

The construction of one's "race" is a complex interplay of physical appearance, speech, dress, experiences, relationships, and interactions with public actors. As a person of color currently residing in a country where not too many individuals look like me, I can reflect on various factors that shape society’s perception of both my own and others’ races. Cultural heritage, historic legacy, or media representation are all included, but are not limited to, one’s “construction of race.” However, physical appearance often serves as the initial basis for racial categorization. For example, skin color, facial features, hair texture and speech patterns and accents are used as visual cues, though these are superficial and can be misleading. Experiences & relationships play a significant role, they may not mold you, or be the crux of your beliefs but they most certainly leave an impact, they did on me at least. I was once traveling to the States to play in a golf tournament I ...