So, if I'm not right, am I either a racCOON or just stupid and naive?

I'm Black and Deaf. I shouldn't say "never," but I hardly recall any moment where I was turned away solely because of my race. However, I was often turned away after people found out that I can't hear or speak. Many feel more comfortable working with those who share their language.

Here’s my thought: You're a Black man who can hear and talk. Someone tells you to stop from behind your back—you hear the voice but don’t stop. Now, I’m Deaf, so if someone tells me to stop from behind my back, I won’t hear them. Do they treat me badly because of my race, or because they assume I ignored them? If I were hearing, would I have stopped or ignored them? I don’t get it.

I'm frustrated with these situations. Even white people with extreme views often dismiss my questions by calling me a "coon" or "Uncle Tom." I fully support fighting against discrimination and ending racial abuse, but I think for many people deeply involved in social justice, that fight becomes a way of life. Like religious devotion, they sometimes suspend rational thinking or become defensive when faced with anything that challenges or triggers their worldview.

So what’s the solution? It takes a huge effort to convert someone from one faith to another because it requires a complete change in their way of life. Similarly, changing someone’s deeply held beliefs about race and discrimination is difficult. I think the best solution is this: You don’t have to give up your passion for social justice, but you should also allow room for rational thinking to better understand different situations.

                  

I believe most social justice activists have extroverted personalities. They typically thrive on community involvement and activities. I'm somewhat introverted, but not completely. I get a lot done when I work alone or in small groups of five or fewer.

I don’t rely much on external validation or others for my self-worth or growth, so maybe that’s why I don’t worry much about how people treat me based on my appearance. I don’t let my appearance be something others control—being my best is what I focus on.

I guess for people who rely on external validation, it’s harder when they get turned away, even when they haven’t done anything wrong. They often turn to their beliefs, like social justice or religion, to explain it.

My theory is neither right nor wrong. Whatever cause you invite me to join, such as a local Deaf Black club or something similar, I’d be honored. However, I want to make sure you understand my view—my race is not for sale or politics, and neither is my disability.