I’m a 29-year-old white woman who grew up in a mostly white area, so I didn’t have much exposure to different cultures growing up.
As an adult, I’ve had multiple people (mostly other white people) tell me that I “act Black.” That comment has always bothered me, because I don’t fully understand what they mean, and it feels like a stereotype.
Background-I’m naturally very expressive. Very. I talk with my hands, use a lot of facial expressions, and have a lot of energy when I speak. I also grew up around family members who used sign language, so communication in my family was very visual and animated.
In my adult life, I’ve noticed that I tend to connect easily with people from different backgrounds, including Black coworkers and friends. Conversations feel natural and comfortable, but I don’t want to assume anything or come across as ignorant.
My questions are:
- What do people usually mean when they say someone “acts Black”?
- Is that considered offensive or inappropriate to say? Bc I feel like it is. I would never say this omg
- Is there a better way for me to understand my own communication style without tying it to race?
I’m asking because I genuinely want to understand and be respectful, not to offend anyone. Or be offend and still give feedback plz lol