"Passing," about an issue that isn't black-and-white

Passing can be a gray area that some biracial or multiracial Americans face when navigating questions of identity and social acceptance, while defining the story we tell about ourselves. "CBS Saturday Morning" co-host Michelle Miller talks with Rebecca Hall, Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga, the director and stars of the new film "Passing," and with writers Lise Funderburg and Allyson Hobbs, about the social history of passing, and its impact upon perception and power.
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[@rachelderenoncourt3881]

Why is the black experience always compared to the homosexual experience? I don’t have to tell anyone I’m gay but everyone knows I am black immediately.

[@malirabbit6228]

Cause if you can piggyback onto the black experience in anyway,shape or form, then you can really say that you know true suffering !

[@oldenoughtoknowbetter5824]

so true. We both have had civil rights issues, but there is where the similarities end.

[@buddhafyre]

If you look, the arguments that have been used by the gay community to score a number of landmark legal rulings, were all built on civil rights cases from the 60's. For example the same sex marriage case was heavily predicated on Loving vs Virginia, the case which eliminated prohibitions on interracial couples while on the west coast, Reverand Broshears decided the solution to the problem of his gay parishioners being assaulted constantly was to form an armed community defence group called the Lavender Panthers..... Any guesses what inspired the name? (see the Newsweek article 'The Most Dangerous Gay Man In America').....

[@aaronmichael9788]

I love how they also delved into other forms of passing but the gay one is what got you upset

[@rachelderenoncourt3881]

@@aaronmichael9788 not upset at all.

[@All.ThingsRE]

The black experience is not the same as the homosexual experience and I wish it would stopped being compared.

[@momo-mu7jp]

Also, when they compare them, it’s like they forget Black ppl can also be homosexual. It’s so weird

[@Joseph-vu7mg]

U right gays have been discriminated against since beginning of time

[@abbieC88]

@@Joseph-vu7mg Well, it still shouldn't be compared to be being black. It will NEVER be the same thing. The color of my sking was how I was born. You chose to be gay and live that lifestyle.

[@rafangille]

they never said it was. but the idea of passing as something you’re not, can apply to gay people

[@janedoedodo]

@@abbieC88 well... no. people don't chose to be gay, that's the whole point. but they can chose to mask it, while black people can't hide it. there lies the main difference i guess

[@nothing2seehere34]

Passing is NOT a thing of the past, it is still happening today.

[@SharonSmith1980]

I was about to say the exact same thing! My kids are half black and half white and my white husband and I teach our kids to love who they are as being both black and white, because a long time friend of his family told my husband that because our kids were fair skinned that we should raise them to pass for white so that they can "achieve greatness" in their life. That made my husband and his mother mad enough for the lady not never visit his family for a long time. Now if that incident occurred in my family circle, how many other people out there are still contemplating the same exact thing?

[@pepperjones7559]

Mr. Graham gave a speech sponsored by the Library of Congress in Detroit. He said in his demographic the young people attend HBC’s, earn the degree and after they earn it throw it away, proceed to Ivy League schools with their money, and upon graduating pass into white society and disappear from their families. Barbara Walters best friend was white. When Mr. Graham exposed her in his book that was first she was outed.

[@BronzeSista]

@@SharonSmith1980 many people who are generational Black mix are not trying to pass for white, we don't have Jim Crow laws anymore, however some of the biracials nowadays are taught to try to escape being Black. And many of them can't pass for white.

[@lafredahendricks1232]

Yes indeed

[@SuperDorothy40]

@@TruthBToldOnce and that was my thing to she was not corrected this thing is still going on today.

[@dtd9003]

Both actresses -- in black eyes -- would be recognized as being black.

[@PHlophe]

that's not the point. they've been specifically selected as "ancher point " for the film and the cachet they bring with their notoriety . the person that actually passes is the directrix herself Rebecca Hall . we can see both ladies african features. One of them is biracial the other is not.

[@dtd9003]

@@PHlophe I know that's not the point. It was a general observation even though they are anchor points, etc, etc...

[@GeronFletcher]

That’s why she wore a blonde wig in the movie and I’m sure heavy make up. She looked way different

[@anyaw340]

Agreed. When you look at ancestors who actually "passed", they really did "look white". These women would've never been able to pass. It seems that this would make it difficult for these actresses to be believable in these roles, but I won't judge until I've seen the movie.

[@xdan0263]

They would be recognized as black by everyone. They tried to cover it by making the movie in black and white and heavy makeup , but failed, bad casting .

[@SunraeSkatimunggr]

Passing isn't just a Black thing. My own Native American ancestors did some of their own "passing", sometimes being forced to "pass".

[@amyreynolds3619]

Exactly what I was thinking.

[@Angel-tw3ko]

They said that.

[@SunraeSkatimunggr]

@@Angel-tw3ko Yes...some could pass as white and they did pretty much if they could. It has only been since the '70s that it has been seen as "romantic" to be Native American.

[@christinacody5845]

Yup. The sister and ballerina of Maria Tallchief passed as Russian in the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlos. Maria herself (with the support of Balanchine) helped to destigmatize it somewhat (at least in the arts).

[@dollymadison2397]

@@Angel-tw3ko So?? It's worth repeating. Enjoy your righteousness though, I guess 🙄.

[@jenniferwagner9144]

Imitation of Life is my favorite movie (1959 version). Mahalia Jackson puts me in tears every time.

[@ivyc3500]

I like both versions also my favorite movie.

[@aelyles1]

My favorite movie both versions

[@kami7535]

Indeed my all time fav

[@trinawilliams1980]

I have both versions in a beautiful combo set. I got one for my Mom and sister also.

[@smorris2353]

@@trinawilliams1980 Where did you get the combo?

[@dawn123ish]

This whole concept of "passing" just highlights how much of a social construct race truly is.

[@KevenTalks]

100%

[@rich763690]

Race is not a social construct it's a environmental physical adaptation that different branches of human beings have developed to better survive in the different environments around the world......now how to pre judge some people based on their dominant ancestral physic is a social construct

[@KevenTalks]

@@rich763690 The point of the comment above is that of course genetic differences exist, but the categorization of them - how we decide who's "black" (enough) vs. "white" (enough) etc - THAT'S the social construct

[@mspennyisaac]

Isn’t everything a social construct?

[@dawn123ish]

Here is the point of my comment. You can have a generation of White Americans who look back in their history and discover they had a black grandmother or grandfather who passed as white and now they are all white. What does that say about race?? You have to know it’s not real. It’s not fixed nor is it a gene that is passed from parent to child. All humans have the same genes that produce skin and the level of pigmentation is controlled by those genes. It is not fixed. You have to disabuse yourself of this concept of race. Humans are not different species. Humans would have needed to be separated for millions of years for these differences to be fixed. They are easily undone. That is why a so called black person can pass as white. Do we group ppl based on eye color or hair color? So, why do we group based on skin color?

[@marshabeamon1695]

My Dad and his siblings were always being confused for Caucasians and could have easily passed but chose not to and it upset them when people made this assumption. They didn't want any part of the disparity of how whites treated blacks and the love of their heritage far outweighed the negative treatment they received...they didn't take the easy path and I so respect them for this!!

[@rozzie5651]

I can relate and respect that.

[@olavihekandjo2928]

Is it easier? Or is it easier from another's perspective. Seems to pass one has to give up alot, the emotional turmoil alone would be difficult to live with, the fear of being found out. Wouldn't someone who is passing look at someone who chooses not to or who can't and wish they too were as free? It's like a discriminated against gay person and closeted gay person both looking at the other and thinking the other has it easier and suicide rates are high with both groups.

[@queenmommie8295]

TMH knows how his true chosen people are on the earth. Your dad knows that he is of the chosen people. APTTMHY

[@queenmommie8295]

@@olavihekandjo2928 you are not free walking around with white skin that is a lie. Genesis 15: 13 and 14 in effect APTTMHY.

[@jamberry8026]

The worst kind of liar there is, is that one who lies to himself. These people know this truth.

[@salvatore2004]

The first clip from that old movie where the black woman's daughter betrays her is heartbreaking

[@louise-yo7kz]

Breaks your heart

[@salvatore2004]

@@louise-yo7kz is heartbreaking

[@michaelermcgowaniv]

I grew up watching the remake… just as heartbreaking.

[@daimonmarioperez9501]

That was the original. There's another in color. Both are good.

[@timothyfitz1010]

I think that scene is an inaccurate depiction of the way that scenario would have been handled. Black people were and always have been aware of the privilege of white skin. A black mother with a grown child that is passing for white, working a job a black person wouldn't be able to get, would NEVER confront her child in front of white people.

[@roshellparker2992]

Homosexuality can Never be compared to “being an African American” my skin color is always present! WHY is this used over and over again as a comparison?

[@AAGRACEUPONGRACE]

I know. It's astounding that this always happens.

[@jonwiz8722]

Its called the Oppression Olympics!

[@phoenixbuchanan1241]

I have to agree with you even though I'm part of the LGBTQ community I so agree because there is a lot of racism there as well cause at the impending of the day they can hide there gayness I can't hide my black skin and I sure wouldn't want too.

[@frederickgriffith7004]

It shows that they really do not understand.I am a very light skinned African American.At first glance strangers do not know what I am.I notice people tend to make a split second decision in terms of judging other people or to simply walk away out of fear if they recognize if a person is Black.I have people come up to me speaking in so many foreign languages I lose count.When they find out I am African American, their whole demeanor changes.Sometimes less than friendly.Just like human beings pick up being attracted to someone else,they also know when there is a negative vibe when they are disliked or disrespected.Its almost automatic.And there is no where to hide.

[@moniquekyle8354]

So true.!!!

[@2legit64]

I've been told for years that I don't "talk Black" when I'm just speaking my mother tongue. I have a love for the English language and strive to speak it well. When I'm on the phone, it becomes very apparent that there are major assumptions made on the other end as to whom individuals think they are speaking to. It's very interesting. Once an acquaintance of my sister was applying for a job as a high-school principal. The first interview was over the phone. When she walked in for the in-person interview, there were gasps in the room when the interviewers saw a regal Black woman. Without skipping a beat, she said, "Yes, I do sound thinner over the phone." Heh. That was a woman who knew the drill and was prepared for everyone's discomfort.

[@brooklyn3299]

Wow what a fantastic story

[@beaujac311]

2legit64:. Did they hire her after finding out she didn't "fit the description".

[@2legit64]

@@beaujac311 Nope!

[@beaujac311]

@@2legit64 I have a sister who is married to a white guy (she is black). He has a very European sounding last name which she uses too. She's gotten hits on her resume but when she shows up all of a sudden she doesn't "fit the description".

[@queennoneya601]

I have always combated strerotyping. in fact i have made it my business to defy conventional norms when it comes to grammar and speech.

[@d.lawrence5670]

I've been on social media. It's pretty obvious to me that everybody's trying to "pass" as something else.

[@2legit64]

Word!

[@queennoneya601]

. If you do something fake thats still the real you. Your s sleeze. Thats the real you.

[@karmicsheila63]

There is no everybody about any topic.

[@doricetimko332]

What you say is so true! I think about that out in the real world every day with regards to all the makeup and cosmetic ‘alterations’ people use to ‘pass’ as the current societal norm...

[@ladybird491]

I am not, I am walking around looking like I was born and actually a stoic and minimalist. Don't speak for everyone.

[@aaronmichael9788]

I had a friend who passed in high school in the late 2000s. The amount of racism she was able to expose was incredible.

[@kareemsupremet.v.5189]

Yeah I had a biracial girlfriend who was able to pass, she was able to see racism from a mile away in the dark. It was crazy! she exposed a lot of their secrets.

[@frederickgriffith7004]

My mother's side of the family were French speaking creoles from Louisiana. MY maternal grandfather looked ridiculously White. My mother inherited the same physical traits as my grandfather. In fact she was even lighter despite the fact that my maternal grandmother was a beautiful darker skinned woman with French and Haitian ancestry on both sides of her family. GENES are so funny and arbitrary. SO my mother hit the jackpot in terms of her appearance while her two siblings, my aunt and uncle, looked biracial. Both my maternal grandfather and my mother felt it necessary to use their appearance to secure decent housing for their families. After all this was in the 1950s &1960s. Boy did they both have stories to tell. My mother was a nurse in NYC in a Public hospital for many years. The racism in the health care industry is incredible. You would not believe some of the terrible things the White Doctors and later a lot of the Foreign Doctors, mainly from India & The Middle East would say about their Black patients.None of my mother's coworkers had a clue that she was a Black woman unless she told them. She treated all of her patients equally but she did all she could to make sure the Black and Spanish patients did not get the sh*t end of the stick when it came to their care.The Doctors who all thought she was White,had no issues with her if she suggested a better or alternative diagnosis or course of treatment. She had a Southern/cajun type of accent. So the first thing Doctors would ask her is where she was from. SHE said New Orleans and left it at that.Lol no one could figure out why she was so much closer to her Black and Spanish coworkers. My maternal grandfather worked for many years for a very prestigious brokerage firm on Wall Street. He worked in the mail room. In fact by the time he retired his company was in the old WTC by the late 1970s. He interacted with a lot of rich and powerful people at that time. They had no clue that he was a Black man so they felt comfortable saying such terrible things about Black people. Let's just say if people think that the Joe six packs are the only racists.Think again. Add some judges and Public officials to the list.Here is one conversation he overhead while working in the company library one day.This was a conversation amongst 7 very wealthy and prominent people sitting at a table in a conference room off the library. They were waiting there until some official documents could be processed.This is what my grandfather overheard. "The Blacks are only alive because they serve a useful purpose. They have to be the scapegoat. They have to be the fall guys. Ours is a rob Peter to pay Paul economy. You suck whatever dollars they use as consumers and taxpayers out of their communities and give them very little in return. Keep the drugs in their communities and the money floats to the top to guys like us.Meanwhile the low level drug dealers feed the prisons to create more jobs for the police, corrections,the lawyers, the judges and so on.Gotta keep feeding that machine. You need the Blacks to keep up the fear factor. You don't have to do sh*t to get elected. Just tell the gullible Whites that you are there to protect them from the Blacks. Then you have all the access you want on the gravy train.The other mongrels don't realize.No Blacks then we use them to take their place. They lose their honorary White Folk Status.Any Blacks who wise up to this and get too smart for their own good just have to be eliminated. It's been done before."Needless to say,my maternal grandfather was shaken to the core.And coming from the Segregated Jim Crow Louisiana, he had seen it all.But for the first time he HEARD it all.He once said," the wickedness is just below the surface like you won't believe. BLACK folks best hope it stays there because they won't be ready for what's coming."He once said that his appearance was both a blessing and a curse."True evil ain't a BLACK boy.Its hides behind closed doors. ItsFolks who look all prim and proper in suits and ties."

[@tamitam8]

@@frederickgriffith7004 Your story is a very interesting one. Thanks for sharing. The only thing that gave me pause, was when you indicated that your mother "hit the jackpot in terms of her appearance", while her siblings looked bi-racial. I could have been misinterpreting what you were saying, but the message read as if you feel that your mother was lucky that she appeared white, while her siblings didn't. That's the exact message that we're trying to move away from - that it is better to appear white than anything else.

[@frederickgriffith7004]

@@tamitam8 Yes I understand your point.I guess it's bordered on sarcasm.I was referring from a societal point of view.Because both parents ingrained in us to love who we are.And my maternal grandmother was such a beautiful woman inside and out.With beautiful dark skin.But because the mid 1960s was filled with so much raw racial hatred there were moments of hesitation in terms of self acceptance.I myself am a very fair African American.And I remember my darker skinned relatives telling me that I would be treated better.At the time I thought that was ridiculous.But as I look Back there were many subtle incidents that made me wonder.And unfortunately there was colorism in my maternal grandfather's side of the family.The love, support and encouragement seem to always come from the darker side of the family.These elders had such a remarkable sense of strength and humanity within them.Most were able to disguise their emotional pain inflicted upon them in public spaces But I began to understand the physical toll it took on them.That extra level of stress.I call it the Jackie Robinson syndrome.

[@jaemebereal8476]

I tried to pass, as. 9-10 yr old in the 60’s, in Southern California. A rural and racist area, full of trailer trash and poor immigrants. I wanted to look Mexican. It was pure survival on my part, because “I didn’t want to look ‘purple’” (My white grandmother thought that was soooo funny). Hated my face, would have cut off my nose & lips, to spite my face. Luckily, my Black grandmother found out, unluckily because she came to see me at school and I ignored her. I made it up in my mind that she was an outsider. Furious, she had me removed from my mother’s care, and put in my father’s, which was inner city ghetto. It was a HUGE change from being called a N*##ger to being a “white girl”. But that’s another story.

[@scorpionoir4952]

My sister is very fair skinned and she tells me about how people think they are complimenting her when they tell her how exotic she looks or when they tell her she looks like she can be mixed. She even had a boss tell her she could pass for Mediterranean for which she'd rather not pass for anything but be recognized as a black American with African ancestry for which she is. We come from a proud black family thanks to parents that taught us to love ourselves and everything it means to be black even in a society that may not agree or see our beauty. I admire the black people that lived in their truth even when they didn't have to.

[@PHlophe]

i think you can live your truth and the forces around you would refuse to acknowledge it. I pass unintentionally as caucasian ( I am bisexual also ) . I do have a walking style that tips a few black people off, it does resemble the walk of Black guy , apparently i am light on my feet. which makes me laugh frankly. But i hate it when folk people debate the ambiguity behind my back and then confront me as if i intended to fool anyone by blending in. Most times i am just minding my black business. It ain't just BP that question me. caucasians , the few , especially those who have observed a trait somewhere else. they are eager to share their observations. I am like um.. k. i have a whole set of ethnic Amapondo names. its supposed to be a "given" that I am an african dude and not a caucasian.

[@joefreeman3772]

💯

[@scorpionoir4952]

@T La You are right. I never thought about that term until you just brought it up. Thanks for sharing. It is true to we have adopted a lot of the language unknowingly and not realizing that it is another way to reaffirm that the closer you are to white in color the better you are.

[@TamaraGarrettAlpha]

Big up to your sister. The stupid things people think of to say we are not African American is crazy.

[@PsychicMedium4747]

What’s the truth? They are indeed mixed race. Black west African people were never light skinned with European features. These people in the film etc are mixed black and white. Mixed race people can pass for full white because they are already part white.

[@jusliving7977]

Even the Schaumburg museum has an interesting story. The Founder of this Harlem, African American institution was a Latino gentleman from Puerto Rico named Arturo Alfonso Schomburg. He was way ahead of his time. He was a mixed race Afro Latino who was never shy about his Black ancestry and studied his full history & shared his findings with the world through his museum.

[@nicolebrown5987]

There's a fellowship in his name for students who attend public institutions in NY.

[@queennoneya601]

African latino . Not just latino.

[@vic1101ful]

An amazing site.

[@queennoneya601]

@@vic1101ful Whatever .

[@queennoneya601]

@Miss Sugarbaker Suit yourself. The movie you speak of should only be looked at for entertainment value and nothing else.

[@billhathaway2814]

Langston Hughes wrote about this in his collection of short stories "The Ways of White Folks".

[@ramsaycarmichael]

the ways of white folks is one of my favorite short story collections! i know the piece you're speaking of. it's written in the form of a letter and the title is the same as larsen's beautiful novella and this film, which i cannot wait to see.

[@billhathaway2814]

@@ramsaycarmichael Yup. A truly brilliant story. Very concise and concretely describes the pain and the familial dilemma of the person who has decided tp pass. Passing is above all else about survival both social and economic but passing also involves loss. Loss of family and culture and friendship. Passing also involves fear. The permanent fear of being found out. Great book everyone should read it. I OWN my copy and NO nobody can ever borrow it. LOL!!! Thanks for the response....

[@ramsaycarmichael]

@@billhathaway2814 lol oddly enough, loaning my first copy of TWOWF to a friend is the reason I no longer let friends borrow books.

[@billhathaway2814]

@@ramsaycarmichael Right loan out that book and do not expect to see it again. That is the one book on my shelf that I now hide because people literally BEG me to let them borrow it. The response is always no...

[@yolyn5861]

He was actually considered "white" in some states, according to the one drop rule enforced by our country.

[@BronzeSista]

15 years before Jackie Robinson, There was Romare Bearden born in Charlotte NC, his family moved to Harlem in New York. He was asked to play baseball, but they asked him if he would pass for white. Romare said no, I will not hide my identity. He had 2 Black parents. Look up his story it will fascinate you!

[@lisacox3750]

I just learned about him last week

[@wombatcube]

OMG I love his art! Thanks for sharing his name! I love the fact that he was a reader, and an artist, and he let those things bleed into each other.

[@BronzeSista]

@@wombatcube He is really amazing 👏 They have a beautiful park named after 'Romare Bearden. In Charlotte NC.

[@livingwellintheearthlyreal7514]

His story is told in the Colin Kaepernick story on Netflix.

[@BronzeSista]

@@livingwellintheearthlyreal7514 it sure is, and I enjoyed Kapenick's movie series. It made me sad regarding his treatment by racist people. And happy at his Black experiences in his life.

[@belm3243]

I get it when she says " black people who have done extraordinary things" Way too often, the accomplishments of black people are not acknowledged. If they are others unashamedly take credit for them or gain from them. Its important though to emphasise that with or without being" extraordinary", my black ancestors don't have to be written about to be worthy. Their exposure to the harshest and inhumane of conditions meant their survival alone was extraordinary.

[@Abbyyena]

Absolutely! Well said!🙌

[@SinewRending]

Thank you.

[@freethinkinmelanin6795]

Thank you!!!! I've gotten to a place where I'm like if they wanna start our history as black Americans with slavery go ahead. Start wherever you want...point is it was never intended for us to make this far!

[@LifewithDrTrishVarner]

Well said.

[@jamberry8026]

Yes, most American inventions were invented by slaves and their masters took credit and got the patent and money for them. Reparations are in order just on that alone.

[@sarahhall9079]

Wow wasn't expecting the Rebecca Hall family twist at the end. Fascinating

[@Chutney1luv]

@lucky leprechaun I agree! Her mother also reminded me of Chelsea Clinton, with her smile!

[@felicianakhid786]

@lucky leprechaun Why are you embarrassed to think that you were a fan of her Mom. We're you a fan of " Tom Jones". He is black, but passed for white.

[@AJ-mt9zt]

@@felicianakhid786 if he passed as White, then he's probably mixed with Black and not Black...

[@melodyjohns3840]

Maria Ewing

[@twain103]

I COULD TELL.

[@BlimpCityFeeder]

Actress Carol Channing perfected 'Passing' as an art form, even to the end.

[@BronzeSista]

My grandmother said she was passing, and she didn't confess until she was starting to get sickly.

[@LynRuiz]

Apparently Clark Gable, Mae West, and Jayne Wyman also passed. Mariah Carey chose not to after her ex husband Tommy Mottola introduced her as a white singer.

[@BronzeSista]

@@LynRuiz He even wanted her to stop haven't Black guys in her videos.

[@andrewDaMack]

@@LynRuiz I didn't know this about the Gable, West and Wyman. Interesting.

[@DJ-zt2ml]

I also, heard Marilyn Monroe and Babe Ruth were mixed, Hence, the reason they were raised in the foster care system.

[@kennethrussell1158]

"Imitation Of Life" from 1959 starring Lana Turner.

[@vellabella1]

Look at the original , done in 1934 Freda Washington. Who was Black but did not look as such. Her bio is interesting, she refused to pass and married a darker skin man . Her career suffered but she was proud of being black.

[@aubreyjohnson679]

One of my favorite movies!

[@lisacox3750]

The clip they used was from the original Imitation of Life with Fredi Washington which came out in the 1930s. Fredi was great because she really was multigenerational mixed but for the times she was a black woman. She had no interest in passing in her real life.

[@ivyc3500]

My favorite movie.

[@coraggio93]

IMO, the 1934 version of that movie is superior, because the daughter was played by Fredi Washington, who was a light skinned Black woman. In the 1959 version, the daughter is played by a brunette white woman.

[@Hello_Pri]

Wow, when Ruth said you walk in a room and scan it and you do it unconsciously. I can relate to that. I'm sue so many people of color can.

[@PHlophe]

i picked on that part. because i do it too , but its like a radio antenna that picks up frequencies randomly and you can point to a direction. I was at the dentist the other day and there was a dude my age who "passes" also .we clocked one another on the spot and we smiled.

[@caroljackson4093]

Yes, I do too, but very cautiously because unfortunately/fortunately “ALL SKIN FOLK AIN’T KINFOLK”.

[@brendabrittain9343]

😅

[@m.layfette6249]

My great grandmother passed for white to survive. I remember stories from my mom of she and her grandmother going into White Only stores, only because the clerk thought my Mom (a little girl at the time, no older than the age of 7) was training to be a maid to this white woman. The tales go on and on. My great grandmother used her light skinned completion to an advantage. I remember when my younger sister saw pictures of her and asking, "Who's that white lady with grandma?" Her name was Queen Esther, and just like her namesake she was strong, bold, determined and kind to everyone she met.

[@melissadenbo2461]

oh my god, here too. I have a picture of my mother, lilly white skin, long black hair. People always ask me who's that white lady in the picture. I tell them its my mother, and they look shocked. Then they ask me if I was adopted, when I say no they are even more shocked. When I was young my skin was very lite, as I get older, my skin gets darker. But I still have siblings that today, pass as white,.

[@m.layfette6249]

@@melissadenbo2461 It's makes one want to shake their heads. As a child my great grandmother was just that My Great Grandmother. A strong, beautiful, and bold Black woman. Living in a world that valued her light completion rather than her God given merritt/worth. She was the only person in the family that could pass. I'd much rather inherit her sweet spirit than anything else.

[@jamesmiller8758]

This should be a story about what goes around comes around because humans evolved from Africans. Denial of the genetic composition of human beings keeps people ignorant because there's only one race which is the human race.

[@darnagutter9645]

I truly appreciate your story. I do not confer with this "shame game" persecution called "passing". Historically people did what they had to do to survive. Many bi-racial people were not accepted into the black culture. So what other choices did they have. The term "passing" is an attempt to shame and make them feel guilty for blending in with white society to survive. As a bi-racial person I see it as persecution. And films on this subject only serve as propoganda that fan the flames of hatred against bi-racial people. The origins of this resentment comes from the black culture obsessing that bi-racial people thought themselves better. When anyone in their right mind would seek life in a less hostile society; especially as they were empowered to do so.

[@iamhischosen3866]

How could she “pass” and make babies with a black man, Wouldn’t that expose her, or have her husband killed for rape?

[@romstar]

“ I did it all for you.” 😩😩😭 I felt that! Most parents will do anything so that they’re children won’t suffer-so many people of color did that, knowing the pain That have dark skin in this society means and does to a person...🙏😘

[@DominoChild]

It took me a few times of rewinding this to understand what she was saying. Thanks.

[@user-el3iw6rz3m]

Right

[@adventurousdaydreamer]

Yeah. It's really sad they felt they needed to do this.

[@BronzeSista]

if her mother was in America, most Black people would know she wasn't white.

[@mi3helle707]

@@adventurousdaydreamer Sad but a harsh reality especially in those times. You'd do anything so your children wouldn't go through all the racial abuse and trauma that existed during that time.

[@bbills4186]

My great- grandmother had two Aunts, named Goldie and Mabel, who like herself, were very fair skinned African-Americans. They all grew up in a very small town in southern Ohio at the turn of the last century. In their early twenties they made the decision to leave southern Ohio and move to California. I think for better prospects all around. My great grandmother used to get postcards and pictures from them regularly. They were beautiful women with hair down to the floor. After awhile, the postcards and letters stopped coming in. At that point I believe they assimilated into European- American society and cut off any links to their black past. The crazy part is, in our family, they are remembered as very kind and dear women who were loving and were very much loved. But I guess during those times it just wasn't enough.

[@shanvikki553]

They could have been very kind and very loving, but they also could have wanted to not be mistreated, looked down upon, oppressed, underpaid, underemployed, unemployed, disrespected, name called, hurt on a daily basis, so they got rid of the "cause of the problem". They got rid of the status of being black and passed for white. The horrific part about it all is what made them kind and loving is the upbringing which was from black people. There are so many so-called white people out there right now who are not white, but the descendents of people who were trying to shrug off the oppression that comes with having African ancestry. How horribly sad. The shame should be from the ancestry that taught people to be hateful.

[@peachygal4153]

Do you descend from Madison Hemmings who is believed to be Thomas Jefferson's son? Some of his children left Ohio for California. He was only one eighth black. His wife was mixed too, but had more black in her and it showed, so they never tried to pass. I understand some of their children looked black, some didn't. His children stayed on the black side even if they looked white, but he did have a few descendants who passed. A couple of his grandchildren.

[@bbills4186]

@@peachygal4153 I am not related to the Hemmings' as far as I know. I did know a woman who became a judge in Columbus Ohio and she was a Hemmings'. I hope to find out what happened to them and see if I have other relatives out West.

[@bbills4186]

@@shanvikki553 And from what my grandmother told me, they couldn't find work, didn't like their marriage prospects and since they were fair skinned, they caught it from both sides of the color line.

[@Frugal_granny]

@@shanvikki553 there is another oppression you didn’t mention. The hostility by black community members toward the fair skinned. Blaming them for “passing”. As if one chooses their skin color, hair texture or eye color! I’ve felt it in numerous parts of this country. Having to “prove” yourself worthy or “black enough”! It gets dang right old! Worse yet is you are damned if you acknowledge and damned if you don’t! So it’s easier to walk away from that drama , for many.

[@deniselee1855]

In addition, I would like to say as a light-skinned African American woman in Society people always thought I was mixed race. Some black people who are not mixed race who are just light skin go through some of these same problems as well. It's not just a mixed-race the people. There are some black people who are very light skinned and can still pass for white and do not have a white parent. Let's not forget about them. In addition, when you are light skinned black person in America people automatically assume that you are mixed race and when they find out you're not they are appalled. Everybody has hard times and everybody has had a hard time growing up especially, here in America with all their racial labels

[@conniewolf7300]

On that show with a Henry Gates about ancestry, he said that African Americans are an average of 25% European heritage.

[@slarvadain188]

I’m a light skinned black American woman with two black parents. So you don’t have to have a white parent to be fair skinned. I def understand you.

[@TheGermandutchess]

same here. its hard being black but u look white. u just cant fit in anywhere.

[@BronzeSista]

@@TheGermandutchess Its easier if your light skinned Black parents teach you to be proud of being Black. Its difficult if you have a white parent who teaches you its bad to be Black, so your biracial self work hard to not be associated with Black people.

[@barbram8001]

Amen.

[@grantbos5967]

My great grandmother "passed". Her mother never knew her grandchildren even though they lived less than a 15 mile ride away. Heart breaking to say the very least.

[@CatMacKFromtheWayBack]

The director had to tell this story. It is a healing for her family , to understand her history.

[@crystalriley9671]

I totally disagree. This director did such an injustice to this subject, and shows how tone def she is by the selection of actresses play African American ADOS.

[@michaelermcgowaniv]

Great piece. The director has made a very personal film.

[@universalheartstring]

This was a very poignant and beautiful piece.

[@DeAndra750]

The movie will win every Oscar. It's that good. Acting ,directing,beautiful cinema.

[@theprousteffect9717]

I can't wait to see this movie! I love the artistic choice to film in black and white too.

[@kdeloris2225]

It's on Netflix right now

[@deeproctor6542]

I hope you are not as disappointed as I was. I was so excited to see this movie and it was very boring

[@mi3helle707]

@@deeproctor6542 it was quite boring indeed 😭

[@sandramorey2529]

We Jews have lots of experience with Passing if we lived through the early parts of the 20th century. " Funny, you don't look Jewish" is something many of us have heard if we didn't have the features associated with Jews. Sometimes our lives depended on passing. First time I was beat up I was a pretty little 3 year old who wore a Star of david around my neck. I didn't really know what it meant. Anyway, I was chased by a group of older boys with rocks. I won't forget that and I am now 81. But it gave me a look into Jim Crow that educated me early.

[@kimbronson3520]

Your ethnicity has nothing to do with what you look like. As long as you look white, you'll be alright. That is why brown minority IMMIGRANTS CAN BE SINGLED OUT and bannished, as we've seen on numerous occasions. While the white looking ones can enter this country freely, unnoticed and unbothered.

[@vellabella1]

@@kimbronson3520 True but I think Jews from the middle east with darker skin has a different experience than those from Europe. But I do agree with you. I have many Bosnians friends and their experience was easy street compared to other immigrants and refugees

[@jay9young87]

I would like to be enlighten on Judaism is it an ethnicity? A race? A nationality? I was under the assumption that it is more of a religion and any persons of different ethnicity can become Jewish.

[@MusicBoxAlsoWater]

@@jay9young87 It can be both a religion and an ethnicity. Two majority Jewish ethnicities are Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jewish. A lot more people today identify with the ethnic part of being Jewish vs the religious part of Judaism.

[@KimberlyBishh]

@@jay9young87 Jewish is a religion and an identity.

[@queenelsa890]

This happens in the Hispanic community also. “You don’t look Mexican” 🙄

[@samaraisnt]

as if they'd know. "You don't look like my gardener" type beat.

[@thekingofmoney2000]

Well that’s different, Hispanic isn’t a race.

[@ThatsJustMyBabyDaddy]

Excellent film. Alex Haley's Queen, starring Halle Berry, is another good examination of racial passing.

[@madreep]

I am biracial and look racially ambiguous and am quick to correct someone when they assume that I'm not Black. I understand why some people pass, but it's something that I've never felt comfortable with, even when it's assumed. Part of me loves the look of surprise on the faces of people when I correct them because I feel like they're thinking 'why would she want to be Black?' All of my siblings are darker skinned with dark hair and I came out with a pink glow and red hair. And I love my Blackness. I could never pass. Intentionally or otherwise. I hope my ancestors would be proud. Their struggles weren't all for naught. Without them there would be no me. I have a tattoo on my arm that says I am because you were. I will never forget who I am.

[@paullajackson4482]

I am multiracial, but was adopted at birth. I know all about racism and being African American, Caucasian, and Latina, I had to deal with many things. I did not know my ancestry until recently and I'm glad I found out later in life so I could stand with pride for all my lineage.

[@NycBeauty]

Touching comment ❤

[@theylied1776]

I have a second cousin who has a white father, and she looks as if she's from Scotland or Ireland with red hair and blue eyes. When we were kids, people thought she was white and her mother, who is a Doctor, was her nanny. Even at a young age, she would quickly tell them, "I'm black". And would get in your face if you claimed that she wasn't.

[@John77Doe]

They thought her Mother was the Nanny. 😃 😄 😁 😆 😅 😂 🤣

[@theylied1776]

@@John77Doe Yep, this happens to a lot of black parents with mixed children. Listen to the singer Halsey and the horror story she tells about people, white women, calling the police when her father, who is black, would take her to the mall.

[@mzdreadhead]

So, why wasn't she white? Could it possibly have to do with the "one drop rule" . You know, that contamination thing: anyone not pure white, is not white. could it be that?

[@theylied1776]

@@mzdreadhead We didn't make these rules.

[@mariegold3906]

@@theylied1776 Why continue to allow white ppl to define you? they created the rule out of a racist ,ideology why continue to uphold their ideologies then? mixed/biracial ppl should be identifying as such now,. it's 2021 not 1950s.

[@MediaTerryAllen]

Thank you, Rebecca, for a dialogue rich movie and thank you for choosing Tessa and Ruth whose thespian tapestry fit perfectly with this movie! Good interview, Michelle!

[@irishdivajeffries6668]

I think everyone and I mean EVERYONE would be surprised at how their genes are mixed!

[@eavymuturuh3717]

Yes

[@Ms.NoNo2]

No. Not everyone. Especially Africans…

[@BrandyD1777]

@Irish Diva Jeffries Agreed 👍. Great point and many don't want to know, not willing to search or accept. I will try to find link.... sometime ago there was a video here on YT & people said how/who they identified with....a man who identify as black man was more asian than African American. Other stories, 5 or 6 people. Problem is where you feel society accepts you and you feel accepted instead of knowing who you truly are & living in your truth.... In the end, we are all a mixture, very rare to find "pure" and what does it matter if the person is or is not???

[@wilburmcbride8096]

@@BrandyD1777 I find it interesting myself. I was amazed at the countries I was mixed with when I got my DNA kit. I knew I had black, white and Native Americans in my blood but I also found Iranian, England, Mexican and Nigerian. It's said that most white Americans have at least 2% Native American or African heritage. The world is getting more multicultural.

[@ThePhoenix3712]

Yet you have one mtdna, whatever it is that's your group

[@TheRozberry]

There was an African American male entertainer in the 1940's named Korla Pandit (real name John Roland Redd) who passed as an East Indian entertainer for many years in order to gain notoriety.

[@janesmith4h]

I gave birth to a biracial child, 27 yrs ago. My mother then introduced me to Imitation of Life. That movie ripped my soul out. 💔 It wasn't that my child denied, but others sure didn't believe she was mine. **EXAMPLE** I tried picking her up from school, and they called the police on me, because she was so fair.

[@coraggio93]

I have read that there is yet another version of "Imitation of Life" to be released in December 2021. Wondering which version you saw, because the 1934 version starred the very light skinned Fredi Washington as the daughter. The 1959 version had a brunette white woman in the role. A pox on those people who called the cops on you!

[@janesmith4h]

@@coraggio93 I saw the one from 1959. Has Lana Turnwr in it, right?

[@jaeshasway]

I just had an interview last week and the CEO complimented me multiple times on not having an “accent” and “presenting” well. He’s in his 60’s so I’m well aware of what he meant. I’m a BW who doesn’t dress and sound like one of the disparaging Black stereotypes. 🤦🏽‍♀️ We have a long way to go with eliminating systemic racism and devolving those stereotypes that have been exploited to the point that many WP define BP by them and don’t see us as being trustworthy, educated, capable, well spoken, well dressed, well behaved, and other things WP are generally regarded as automatically without being scrutinized or held to a negatively biased standard.

[@TamaraGarrettAlpha]

Exactly 💯

[@LS-ys8nr]

I hope you understand that your own people share responsibility for these stereotypes. For example, if a famous black rapper chooses to rap about guns, hoes, etc. or someone chooses to join a gang, things like that all feed the negative stereotypes.

[@queenofweaves916]

At the end of the day racist whites don’t regard black people as being truly human. They don’t see us as fully human it’s as though we are some sort of animal human hybrid to them. So we can never become educated enough, or become rich enough it doesn’t matter what we do they will never accept us. It’s sad and it hurts but after doing my own research this is the conclusion I’ve come to.

[@TamaraGarrettAlpha]

@@queenofweaves916 we a whole vibe so who needs their approval or acceptance. We GODS kids 💯

[@preppy624]

@@LS-ys8nr wp need to learn to stop generalizing an entire black race based off the actions of a few. Just because a black rapper may rap about negative things doesn't mean that the entire black race does those things.

[@yuppers1]

I'm mixed. I've had people act people completely differently based on how I happened to present that day (how much sun I've had, how humid it is that day- it curls my hair). It's really alienating.

[@k.karmas1126]

I'm so, so sorry. My son is biracial, Blk and Wht, and I had no idea how much push back I would have to teaching him American history, AS IT HAPPENED. Or how delicate it is for him to be able to embrace both parts of himself with pride and present himself to the world without fear. I didn't realize how much he'd "borrow" my husband's privilege, when they are alone together in the world vs how much privilege and power he loses when it's just he and I (since I'm both a woman and Blk). I'm currently pregnant with our second child and, sadly, I don't think anything will be any easier. Funny how naïve I was. I thought they would grow up in a world of truth, fairness, and equity. I waited to become a mom trying to hold out for that ideal. I don't regret my children, but I do mourn the world I've gifted to them.

[@brooklyn3299]

I’m not black but I am ethnic and same goes for me. I truly don’t have the privilege of “dressing down” or walking f around like other white people in seemingly “casual urban” dress. I MUST wear nice clothes, do my hair and makeup JUST to get people to notice me and attend to me when I’m out and about. I also have to be conscious of the way I speak and must be somewhat assertive to get my needs met. I also notice this when going out with men, of different colors.

[@jonathanjohnson8376]

Hi yup, if you were not trying to deceive people then it sounds like it was their problem to begin with. They are the ones making assumptions about you--mostly from ignorance. And if they can't get past their own ignorance; they are the ones that will suffer from it. You probably should not waist too much time with someone like that.

[@k1dork]

@@k.karmas1126, give it a rest. Being black doesn’t mean you’re instantly oppressed.

[@k.karmas1126]

@@k1dork it sorta does since it's codified in our systems. It shouldn't be that way, but it is.

[@valeriareed7234]

I was born in the South during Jim Crow. My mother was melanin challenged whereas my father was not. My parents, siblings and I lived in an area where there were relatives and friends who could have easily “passed” but did not. We all lived in this middle class neighborhood together seeing each other as Native Black Americans. There were questions sometimes when we traveled, but we survived it one way or another.

[@PHlophe]

i think the problem with passing for a fragment of us passers is that you don't "pass" consistently , sometimes on the same day . unconsciously or not. your relatives who didn't pass at all , they are like me and others on/off passers , they navigate that murky area with a set of practical decisions based off off that fact .some chickened but postured a Black pride as the true reason, others might probably couldn't be arsed.but the common thought spread throughout the decades post Jim crow is that the passers didn't care that they passed. they were just Black . naw.

[@shelabrooks3741]

This subject matter has always intrigued me. I am one of those fair skinned blacks who had very green eyes and dark blonde hair. This was over 50 years ago and most people thought that was bizarre. Most people thought I was mixed race and most whites felt I should chose to be white or black especially white men who wondered why they were attracted to me, a black girl. But I look exactly like who I am. As near as I can tell I seem to be a mixture of black, white and Native American. My mom was actually asked to play an Indian in a movie when I was a kid. I've been asked if I was in fact part Indian by at least 3 times by other Indians. Black Americans are mixed with most races. And I don't think that it should be ignored. We are what we are!

[@TamaraGarrettAlpha]

The dad thing is that you aren't allowed to get on the Indian registry with an Indian relative,etc. Alot of stuff was passed along by mouth in families. So very sad to be denied of who you are

[@lisatillett4960]

In that movie that came out passing I watched that movie she didn’t look quite at all to me she did that legal the mix but she didn’t look white lane look white they could’ve found an actress like that that actress didn’t look like to me like a light-skinned black person and they shot it right up but she didn’t quite to me first of all didn’t like the movie because she truly is passing she would never ever went back and found her black friend never with my lunch she had to Lowe’s with her husband and her child she would never went back to the black community ever

[@TheBeverly7]

That actress doesn't look white!! I would have instantly know I was looking at a black woman with a light skin! However, I must say that she is fantastic in her portrayal of a black woman passing as white!!!

[@darnagutter9645]

They look like two black women "passing" for mixed. Not convincing. She should have solicited real mixed actresses.

[@nathanielj.boston352]

Nice story and eye opening. Passing is something many of us do in particular situations.

[@pepperjones7559]

“Our Kind of People” by Lawrence Otis Graham discusses passing and how it persists by the strength of entraracism.

[@vanessawyndham8791]

That's a great book!

[@kiciacoldspring1621]

That was an interesting read, indeed. So is Nella Larson's "Passing" and "Quicksand," the first of which this movie is based on.

[@pepperjones7559]

@@kiciacoldspring1621 Did you ever read, “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison. It’s about a little black girl that wants blue eyes so that she will come into greater acceptance. It’s stunning. I don’t want to give away anything. It’s a little book. It is tragically gripping so if you choose to read it be prepared. Very emotional. 🙋🏾

[@kristarichard]

One thing I hate about being biracial is that people want you to pick one side. This has happened my whole life. They scold me for not knowing my "culture". They ask me why I act so white when I am just being myself.

[@malirabbit6228]

Shakespeare said ‘ To thy own self be true ‘ . Be who you feel that you are, not who others think you should be. Live long and prosper, y’all

[@coraggio93]

I'm a dark skinned Black woman who was always ragged on for my speech patterns. "You think you're white..." was something the other Black kids said to me day after day...

[@2smiles19]

Girl...NOT the same thing. Passing was about survival. Your issue is just trying to feel special. Btw...if your half black Jim Crow already picked your side. 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@christinacascadilla4473]

I’m confused with Lisa Funderberg’s analogy between passing white and passing as straight. Why should I be able to look at someone and know what they do in the bedroom?

[@jordanhawkins2584]

Passing is more than just the color of your skin. Behavior, mannerisms, speech, etc. An example: boys who are gay, but date girls because they want to pass as straight! That’s why “coming out” is a thing!

[@christinacascadilla4473]

@@jordanhawkins2584 isn’t expecting someone gay to act in a way that you can ID their sexual orientation stereotyping?

[@jordanhawkins2584]

@@christinacascadilla4473 It’s all stereotyping and bias! That’s why this is the topic of discussion!

[@jordanhawkins2584]

@@christinacascadilla4473 The world puts ppl in boxes, whether it’s social, economic, race, sex, sexual orientation, or religion. People’s experiences or what they see or hear about a person only add to the stereotyping! I feel like, now, that’s why the world celebrates people when they overcome the so called stereotype that the world created and it’s ridiculous at times.

[@katefresina832]

It's really to do more of how one presents themselves or how we think people should be. So the example she used is correct, say for example you have the perception that all gay men are feminine and very flamboyant in their appearance. So when you think of gay men who are flamboyant you think of men like Elton John who is very flamboyant proud of his sexuality, which is not a bad thing, then on the other hand you have gay men who do not "dress''' like they are gay. One of my good friends is a gay man who is just a regular dude who likes to play Call of Duty but he often gets questioned about his sexuality because "he doesn't look gay'' like what is he supposed to do? Wear his gay uniform? Saying someone is straight passing is because they don't conform to what they think a gay person looks or acts like.

[@vblake530530]

Ok be honest, how many us thought to ourselves; “Interesting, they have a white woman directing this”’ (OR WORSE) , and felt shamed when you found out her mom was black? I did and it is making me hold a mirror to my own prejudices.

[@anikasmith8361]

Excellent point. I fell victim to this. That "oh" in my gut when I found out her family was a victim of the passing dynamic was obviously a lesson I needed.

[@melissadenbo2461]

why would anyone feel shamed because her mom or grandmother was black. I'm black, my mother was thought of as white all her life. My aunt even in her 90s, the ladies at the nursing home all think she is white, until her son shows up to visit and even then they are just shocked. We keep judging people by their skin color and hair texture. this makes us look stupid and racist. We need to stop judging people. If you did a DNA test on 350 million Americans and used the 1% drop rule, you will find that 70% of all Americans are of African decent. We all have atleast 1% of African in us, even those White Nationalist and White Supremacist, have atleast 1% African in them. As much as they want to erase it, they can't, so they deflect from it. When I look at Kyle Rittenhouse with those big lips and wide nose, I guarantee you he and his parents have about 20% African in them. these people know but they will never ever do a DNA test, its just too hard for them to face facts

[@katielangsner495]

People with disabilities pass for 'normal'; lip-reading with deafness, suppressing self-stimulating behavior or following a 'script' with ADHD or autism, avoiding highly stimulating areas with sensory processing disorder or PTSD, and many more.

[@treelady53]

I have multiple sclerosis and I have passed as able-bodied because when was first diagnosed I and had no visable symptoms I was passed over for a couple of jobs when some people knew I had MS leaked this after I had revealed this in what should have been a safe space.

[@violetviolet888]

At the same time, many humans are unable to "pass" because of their disabilities.

[@cherripie6444]

I love the dialog in the comments. The offering of historical information being passed on to those who will surely pass it on. Kudos.

[@branstarone]

I saw this up on Netflix last night and "passed" on it but after seeing this interview. I'll watch it tonight. Thank you Rebecca Hall.

[@jebiusenvy]

I'm Latina passing but I'm not Latina. I lived in Miami and only got some jobs because people thought I was Latina but when they found out I couldn't speak Spanish they treated me different.

[@sharoncox3734]

This was beautiful! This kind of movie is still needed today. I pray that it shows in the end we are loving who we are and do not have to pass. The director is beautiful!

[@PHlophe]

but we are not loving

[@maria-fb3ex]

Omg - I can totally relate… people assume I’m white when I am 100% Mexican - Mexican American… the things I hear are appalling … it impacted my life and my view if the world…. Thanks for this story

[@pearls1404]

There are white Mexicans though no? People who have been there for like 500 years

[@k1dork]

What do Mexicans say about white people?🤔

[@lewstone5430]

I think Mexican women generally make good wives, the hard-working, traditional type who were born and raised there. I married a Native American lady, I wouldn’t recommend. I live in New Mexico so I come in contact with a lot beautiful, hard working Mexican ladies. FYI I keep my hands and eyes to myself.

[@archiebareno624]

I am 100 percent American born of Mexican descent but the more liberals talk about race and racism the worse things get in our society the reason people of all colors and nationalities have conversations with me is because I’m friendly real and I never bring up the race card have I been treated badly a few times in my life because of what I was yes but I don’t whine and cry about it now as a conservative we’re all in this together let’s move forward as a nation and please stop using the race and gender cards

[@k1dork]

@@archiebareno624, exactly.✊🏾🍻

[@brendadavis5391]

Both versions of Imitation of Life make me cry & cry & cry!

[@veramae4098]

In high school read an autobiography of an American black man who passed as white. A brilliant classical pianist. He was close to marrying a white woman, and finally decided he had to tell her. Then he didn't hear from her for months. One day, she walked back into his apartment. They married and moved to Europe. 1920's. Very painful to read. Oh, if it matters, I'm mixed American: Irish, German and Dane. My "German" grandmother was ashamed of her Irish mother, and angry that her daughter chose a Dane to marry. (Odd story, Dad was 4th generation American but still 100% Dane. Small farm area, Danes kept immigrating in, families married in the community.) Dad was ashamed, a little, that he'd married someone with German heritage. Two world wars and the holocaust, y'know. Prejudice is very odd.

[@dresser6135]

There is also a very good current novel about "passing". The Other Half, the author is Bennett...don't recall the first name.

[@82mmkay]

The book is, Autobiography Of An Ex-Coloured Man, by James Weldon Johnson. You are right it was painful to read and main protagonist to me, was infuriating!

[@Muhdah1972]

I read Nella Larsen's book after seeing it in the Schomburg book store about 3 yrs ago and was excited to hear about the making of it into a film. I think it will be good because of Ruth Negga & Tessa Thompson plus Rebecca Hall's always has done good work as an actor. Surprised to learn about her background, intrigued to see what she did with this story as it's director.

[@jackie9600]

Unless you look like me, you will never have my experiences or feel what it’s like to be me.

[@purplelove3666]

Thank you.

[@klid4444]

The topic of passing is deeply painful. My mother's side of the family is largely ambiguous but chose not to pass...mostly. Those that make a lifestyle, predicated upon denying their heritage, live in closets full of lies. It begets nothing but shame, self hatred and suffering.

[@jenniferjohnson4462]

My black great grandmother lived her life as a white woman;She was able to buy property and burial plots nave in the early 1900’s

[@Frugal_granny]

Few ever think about how those who passed often lifted up their kin, though in secret. Historical records are hard to come by since those were controlled by the oppressors. Yet those who could navigate that world could access much needed resources their kin couldn’t directly access. That’s what I learned from my Boyce/Bice ancestors. I’m proud of them and what they did during shameful periods in US history.

[@darnagutter9645]

Good for your great grandmother! As a bi-racial person I do not agree with shaming or trying to make people feel guilty for living their lives however they choose. The word "passing" should not even exist. It is an evil persecution.

[@pisceanbeauty2503]

@@darnagutter9645 if you are uplifting oppressive systems in the process and having to deny aspects of who you are, then it is a problem.

[@louise-yo7kz]

Such a difficult complex subject

[@altheriarabb6413]

So grateful for this segment. Thank you for the Honesty. I can't wait to see this film.

[@davidj8658]

Actors are always acting. Their interviews are well practiced performances. They’re passing as genuine .

[@lizadye]

😂💯

[@ajohonly3721]

Hahahahaha hahha

[@peachygal4153]

Freddie Washington really was light skinned black. Both of her parents were black too, she just happened to inherit more of each of her parent's European ancestry.

[@sara8614]

Isn't that just what sociology calls "roles". Acting accordingly to the situation. It's a sign of social intelligence. The opposite would be people on certain reality shows who behave instinctually without filter and create drama all the time.

[@bonnierobinson8684]

What an ugly comment!

[@lisaanderson135]

I read this incredible book which opened my eyes to the idea of passing, and I look forward to seeing the film! First off, being filmed in black and white was a brilliant choice! It saddens me that the United States was (and still is) the most racist of countries, IMO. Growing up in a town with 99% white Anglo Saxon Protestant or Catholic’s was difficult for my siblings. Back in the late 80’s, I saw my older brother get discriminated against. We are white and Jewish… but he is gay as well. I couldn’t imagine what he felt! I never embraced my heritage or religion. I know it’s a far cry from what my black friends must have felt, but nonetheless it still hurt! People in town would use derogatory remarks about Jew’s and Black’s like it was no big deal. This happened in a small beautiful town. A town that was painted by Norman Rockwell. A town that I was proud of being part of, until I was old enough to understand. Although the demographics have changed, it still can be painful at times. W.E.B. Du Bois grew up here! He had a pale, almost “passing “ complexion which reminds me of this story. I just wanted to add a slightly different side of the story.

[@theprousteffect9717]

Do you have research to back up the statement that the US is the most racist country? I'm not trying to be snide, I just don't think that's true.

[@lisaanderson135]

@@theprousteffect9717 It’s easy to get misconstrued by using the wrong punctuation, which was not my intention. I originally typed “in my opinion“ after the statement I made. It is amazing how a misspelling or left out word/‘s can change the context. I apologize if I upset anyone or confused them with inaccurate statistics.This may be an awful thing to say, and again I apologize if this offends anyone, but if Gabby Petito was black, I don’t think her story would have been as publicized. Is that a bad thing to say? I don’t mean to be disrespectful in either case. I can’t watch the news anymore with all that is going on… so so sad

[@yasminbarry7941]

The United States is the most racist country? WOW.....perhaps google KZbinr Stephanie Perry's "Worst countries for black travelers". See what befell so many African Americans on different continents, especially Asia.

[@lisaanderson135]

@@yasminbarry7941 I was giving my opinion… If anyone wants exact and accurate statistics, read a book, not a comment on a KZbin video

[@4daluvofnikki]

I am sure there are plenty of “White” people who have done DNA tests in recent years who were shocked to find out they have Black Ancestry. Some of these DNA tests even link you up with relatives. Passing happened more than we know. I mean why wouldn’t it? It meant living a life of less stress and heartache. Carol Channing found out her biological father was a Black Man when she was much older. She kept it a secret for a while. Someone mentioned on here Tom Jones, although he has not said he has Black ancestry. I wouldn’t be shocked if he did. Once in college I was sitting in front of a guy in the lecture hall who looked white. Turns out he was half black. He raised his hand in class and talked about it (the class was about race). Sadly when he said it I did a double take, with a look of shock. If he had not said a word I would never have known. Now if the same were to happen my reaction wouldn’t be the same.

[@sprat3127]

This happens to me and my daughter- everywhere we go no one recognizes we are related simply because of dark and light palettes of skin, eyes and hair. Our voices are exactly the same and our facial structures. Similar dynamics between our South Asian vs Northern European dynamics. There have been times she has ignored me in public or when she’s with her father’s white family. I brush it off as I understand these dynamics but it is still sad to see the roots of colonialism run so deep in our psyche. India has been multiracial for thousands of years- it was a place of convergence for a long time and we see wide ranges of features and complexions within families. Being multiracial is not a recent dynamic.

[@76shian]

You should tell your daughter that it's not okay to ignore you or any person of color in public

[@christinacody5845]

I picked up this book last year!! Looking forward to see the movie.

[@LissetteLissie]

I saw the movie Imitation of Life and I cried so much. I read "Passing" last year and wrote a paper about it for my Global Literature class. I'm so happy they're making a movie about it. It's important still today to acknowledge one's race, and ethnicity especially when you share more than one. They shouldn't feel left out. The should feel included. One color doesn't fit all.

[@lynnparise9841]

Watched this film just last night. It was amazing, and greatly opened my eyes to another perspective.

[@janetfrazier2008]

Fantastic well done story that my mom and other family members of mine can relate to. Thank you.

[@mukunimulundika5359]

This is a beautiful film. Ruth and Tessa are sublime. Awards please!

[@rianx4595]

Wow. This is a beautiful piece of work to share with the world. A world determined to separate by color and shame those who embrace their ancestors culture and beauty. She has given her family legency the acknowledgement it deserves. Black will forever be beautiful, brave, bold, and a blessing a from GOD. Thank you.

[@pageturningpriestess2859]

Wow, I was literally talking about this book three days ago and commenting how it should be made into a film. The irony! I loved that book, I also liked her other book "Quicksand". I can't wat to see this film

[@LadiJadi72]

Thought provoking, for an issue I've never had to think about. We all have to survive in some format or another. Thank you!

[@SomewhereInIndiana1816]

I've seen several ads for this movie, and I'm really looking forward to watching it. Sounds very provocative and challenging!

[@amourtoujours779]

This discussion always ends up being about WOMEN who pass. I think that's because black MEN are allowed to be DARK SKINNED. Whereas black women are HEAVILY represented by mixed women.

[@deelooks7223]

TRUTH!

[@violetviolet888]

Highly unlikely that the reason is "because black MEN are allowed to be DARK SKINNED". It's far more likely that you *don't hear their stories* because it is not safe for them-even today. (There is cost to their families.) "Dr. Albert Johnston grew up in Chicago, attended the University of Chicago Medical School in the 1920s, and went on to become a radiologist in a small town in New Hampshire. He and his wife were black (but passed as white)- a fact they initially hid so that Johnston could secure an internship - and for 20 years, they kept this secret from their neighbors, and even their children. After the United States entered World War II, Johnston effectively "outed" himself by applying for the Navy. He was rejected because of his racial background, and word of his mixed-race roots spread. When Johnston "came out" as black, Hobbs discovered, the community reaction was mixed. He was fired from the hospital."

[@amourtoujours779]

@@violetviolet888 ​ @Violet Do you own a calendar? It is 2021. Why are you referencing 1920 or WW II as your argument for the comment that I made?

[@violetviolet888]

@@amourtoujours779 History matters. If more people were taught history, they'd recognize patterns over time. Over decades, hundreds of years, thousands of years.

[@kimberlyholley1993]

I saw this movie, loved it. And what a nice surprise to hear the director’s story, great job.

[@danabrown276]

My grandmother’s sister ( great aunt) used to “pass” and was employed by Joan Crawford as her personal seamstress. .

[@darnagutter9645]

When you think about your great aunt, don't think of her as "passing". Think of her as someone who lived her life out to the fullest. This term "passing" would imply that she had something to be ashamed of. It is a form of persecution to label someone "passing". As a mixed person I think it is an evil persecution that should be laid to rest. Don't buy into this propoganda.

[@danabrown276]

@@darnagutter9645 …. Oh no no… she wasn’t ashamed and neither am I. She was a master seamstress and used her talents to succeed.

[@tonibutts9574]

A friend of my husband asked Where are you from? I asked why? He said. You certainly can't be from the US. You don't look or speak like black people! I turned and walked away.

[@SuperSpace2009]

Good for you! The ignorant of people!

[@violetviolet888]

@@SuperSpace2009 You meant the "ignorance" of people.

[@malirabbit6228]

@@violetviolet888 Stannis Baratheon ! Fewer not less!

[@davenayoung3835]

Sometimes passing was fun sometimes it was funny but I am most proud of my blackness my ethnicity it completes me as a human being. It's always a complicated mix when you can see from both sides

[@jamberry8026]

I like you already.

[@ladyteeismegibbs6808]

My grandmother would pass when she was young. In the 1950's in Philadelphia she was a divorced single mother, a seamstress that would do piecework at the factories that didn't hire black women. She would curl her long wavy hair, rogue her lips and cheeks and shut her mouth. She told me.. I had kids to feed. One was my mother. ❤

[@darnagutter9645]

Your grandmother was a wise woman. And she crossed barriers to survive. Forget this label of "passing" which implies there was something shameful in what she did. She simply had the option and used it. As a mixed person this term "passing" represents an evil persecution that needs to be buried. Why should it make black folks feel rejected for someone to embrace the heritage of both their parents? I can not see where it is any of their business. It never was and still is not their business. I find "passing" films propoganda that only feeds the flames of stigmatizing the choices made by mixed people in their efforts to survive. It's just survival and staying alive; like many Jews had to do by denying themselves to survive. You can not shame or try to make people feel guilty for that. Or imply that what they did was an offense to some third party whose opinion of them was barely sociable. You may sense I am very passionate on this subject. I expect I will have to write a book for the sake of liberating mixed people from the burden of this stigma.

[@amyt2400]

@ Darna Gutter I wholeheartedly agree with you! It was about survival and not self-hate or denial. Thank you for sharing your insights. 🌱

[@USA50_]

I was wondering when Americans were going to start talking about this Netflix movie! ❤️ American cinema 🇺🇸

[@glendagoodewright3438]

My great great grandfather passed for years, my Great Aunt (his daughter) and my Grandmother (his grand daughter) told me about him and the struggles that he faced all of the time.

[@tysonb3568]

This is amazing, Im African American and I work in retail in NYC and I met and helped Rebecca in NYC , I KNEW she was a super cool person. No idea she had African American in her bloodline . Great article here . :)

[@ivyc3500]

She is hardly black .

[@tysonb3568]

@@ivyc3500 Where did anyone say she was Black?? I said she had African American in her bloodline.... Are you OK...??

[@richarddeguzman8294]

This is a fabulous film that touched home with me very closely.I’ve watch this film 5 times. it made me think 🤔 about my mother, grandmother, great aunt’s and uncles.

[@d11i37n31]

This is so deep! Cudos for your courage ladies.

[@annerouyer7810]

What a great story - extremely sad too - about her own family.

[@dignifiedblackman4742]

Excellent study piece for African Americans and Native Americans the History its so much going on

[@jeweltone1546]

I am Creole. I honestly wasn't told until I was twenty-five years old. I ask my dad when I was younger, what are we? And he said, you're just like everyone else. I didn't intentionally try to pass. I'm very proud of my African-American Creole heritage!

[@Pinky-kb2hd]

I've read a extraordinary book written by Shirlee Taylor Haizlip called The Sweeter the Juice that spoke of this very thing. What made this story very fascinating it was written as her family memoir true facts. Read it several times!

[@johnsonzz-jw3oz]

An excellent book!

[@ShannonMWeekly]

I read the same book over 15 years ago… kinda want to pull it out again for another read.

[@VeVeJT23]

I wish the dynamic of passing really was a thing of the past. For those of us who are mixed and present as white, there is a constant assumption, and people of all races let that perception override the reality of what we experience as children of Black, White and Native parents. It’s deep, never being enough of anything. It’s really something can mess you up if you allow other people’s ideas of who you are to seep into the truth. I look forward to watching this.

[@k1dork]

You’re being oppressed?

[@LS-ys8nr]

The only person who gets to decide that you’re “not enough” is you. Unless someone actually said that to you, I think it might be just in your head. Most people are too busy living life to care about what percentage of you is which race.

[@VeVeJT23]

@@LS-ys8nr I can’t even count how many times someone has said exactly that to me and that does not count the “well you shouldn’t speak on this because you’re not really black” or “you don’t understand because you’re not really white”. Or the times you get a seat at the table but just long enough for someone to decide that not only do they not want you there, but now they’re on the warpath because they realize what things they’ve said in front of you. Yes, what I think of me matters most, but that does not change the aggression or micro-aggressions from all sides. As anyone who deals with that know, it gets really f*cking exhausting. Especially when there’s no space to speak it without hearing more of the same. 🤷🏻‍♀️ It is what it is. Just wanted to let them know that the dynamic and the grandchild of it is well and alive. BTW I am fully capable of checking my own biases and assumptions. This isn’t even slightly in my head. In fact, if I didn’t let it go, woosah and move on so often that it catches me off guard the next time it happens. It’d be less exhausting if I could stay jaded and presume.

[@VeVeJT23]

@@k1dork For being mixed? No. Not in a long time. So long as I keep my mouth shut when something needs to be said, and then yes. I have lost jobs or friends over not letting racism fly, and more because they now feel self conscious that they were wrong in assuming me to be on their side of whatever thanks to skin tone. It’s not the all day, every day level that noticeable BIPOC people experience here. Do I get oppressed for being female and from a poor family, yeah. I mean, there’s many flavors of oppression built in here. However, what I do get right out the gate is an assumption that (without knowing anything about me beyond how I look) I not only have never experienced oppression, violence related to racism, felt the sting and rage over the build up of micro aggressions, but also at the same time it’s assumed I am a face of gentrification and oppression. 🤷🏻‍♀️ It’s not a complaint, just speaking it because the idea that the choice (we make or made for us) is no longer an issue is a big lie. It’s just that most of us can’t stomach living that level of lie.

[@k1dork]

@@VeVeJT23, interesting. Check out this podcast I did on racial issues. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z6uYk2yZd7KhkKc

[@yvonneplant9434]

Wentworth Miller, in the second film clip, is actually mixed race.

[@77bluegold]

Yeah. That was the point in the clip.

[@CJohnson19121]

Most of the main actors in movie are mixed.

[@mariegold3906]

Wentworth is more white than anything. his father after all is mixed race, and his mom is white. so mixed race(father) plus white(mother) = sounds like a white offspring if you ask me.

[@violetviolet888]

@@mariegold3906 "sounds like a white offspring if you ask me." No. It depends on the appearance of the skin, hair, facial structure, etc.

[@ivyc3500]

Mostly white & looks white

[@newarkzG]

Rebecca Hall's story touched my heart this morning all I can say is that slavery, racism, race, white supremacy and the need to be superior to others has created a trauma ingrained in the very fabric of this country. The layers and levels are deep in which these things spread out having negatively affected all people living in America. The superiority of the elite white men of the past has created a cesspool of trauma further entrenching prejudices by creating laws to support said prejudices. Subsequently creating situations like passing to obtain something denied by the same laws created by these elites.

[@angelawilliams8494]

As a black woman. I was amazed I made an assumption about the director. I wondered why they hired a white director. Shame on me.

[@ivyc3500]

She is white hardly any black blood in her.

[@marvinmills9351]

I recall there being a bit of controversy regarding Maria Ewing's ethnicity in the early stages of her career. The irony of her daughter directing this film is quite poignant.

[@tminus543]

Everyone’s passing for something no matter how good their intentions are.

[@shannongeorgiapeach76]

I loved Rebecca Hall in "The Town" Tessa is one of my favorite actress' I 1st watched her in an episode of the CBS show Cold Case (canceled now) Tessa lights up the screen, she's amazing. Such an important topic, can't wait to watch this 🙏

[@berenicemartinez9238]

Awesome!! I need to watch this!!

[@ivyc3500]

Not me the casting of thee two woman are all wrong.