Ask Gee: Understanding the race card today

Need some advice? Gee Scott is here to help you out. Send him your question and Gee may write a response here on the KIRO Nights show page.

Question:

Why do black people always play the race card? Do you think it is helpful?

-Terry

Answer:

I’ve never understood the race card thing. Especially when over the course of history, the “black card” has been the least powerful piece on the chess board. From 1619 to 1865, slavery lasted for 246 years. After that, segregation lasted for 89 years until 1954. My parents were born in the early 40s, and I don’t think there was a race card that could be played that would give them an advantage.

Terry, I really have no idea why the color of skin was ever an issue, and if you know, feel free to write back and help me understand.

In the mid 70s, my parents weren’t allowed to purchase my childhood home because it stated on the deed that the home couldn’t to be sold to anyone that was black. Again, that was another time that the “race card” couldn’t be played. That home was purchased with the help of a white man.

Here’s what matters: It’s useful to understand history so that it won’t repeat itself. I’m sure you would love to live in a place where the color of your skin doesn’t hinder you, or give you an advantage. There was a decision that was made 400 years ago that for some reason still makes the conversation of race a hot topic today.

–Gee

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Listen to KIRO Nights with Gee Scott and Aaron Mason weekdays from 7-10 p.m. on KIRO Radio, 97.3 FM. Subscribe to the podcast here.