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I recently returned from an exploratory trip to Boise. As a "nuclear" black family we stood out like sore thumbs. We went to the zoo and had that uncomfortable feeling as if people were staring at us instead of the animals. Based on lurking on this thread for a while, I knew not to be offended; it was just unusual for the majority Caucasian population to have visitors.
Every where we went people were friendly. Even at the the little Dutch Boy coffee shop the teens working the counter were curious enough to ask us what brought us to town? They were very nice and said we would enjoy it there.
We actually saw at least 10+ black people in our three day stay. Some where driving, some worked at our hotel and some were just as surprised to see us. (We must of looked like we were from out of town). I noticed a lot of biracial couples for people intending to move to Boise who may have that concern. Majority were white female/black male, but I could care less. I asked a male friend from high school about Boise as he's been there for years with his girlfriend. He said my family would love it.
My concern in my move is for my daughter growing up and not having a group of peers that look like her. The topography is beautiful. The city was a breath of fresh air coming from Las Vegas. I liked the community because it reminded me of where I grew up without all of the drama a big city provides and a return to simpler values.
I went out there for a potential job with the Feds but I suspect they were taken back with the skin issue. I suspect there is nepotism in this town based on reading these threads. Honesty ain't easy when it makes everybody queasy.
On our drive home we had the best feeling after leaving their city. It was a good trip.
I'll echo ShadoAngel's post. We're thinking of moving to ID in the next year or so. We don't plan on living right in Boise, but it'd be the closest city. We're caucasian but being from Australia, our accents would probably also mean we stand out a bit. I don't mind, ID seems like such a gorgeous state and we're both getting hungry for hills, trees and fresh air again. I just wish we'd discovered it sooner.
Yes, we can stand out. If we do, it makes it all the more important that we leave a good impression of ourselves and a group we represent regardless of type of group. We've all heard of the phrase and book title, THE UGLY AMERICAN. I wish it were not a truism but I've seen that personally when living and traveling abroad. Like it or not, people gain their opinions based on very little data. Unfortunately, hollywood and media emphasize stereotypes all the time. Good manners, sober actions are important anywhere for any of us. Too often we have to live down the reputation of others who have proceeded us in some places.
I hope your move goes well. You clearly have a positive attitude.
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