Mixed Race moving to Maryville, TN...will I be accepted? (Knoxville: movies, school)

[Lisa2528]

Hello,

I'm a single bi-racial mom in my early 40's and I'm thinking of moving to Maryville, TN. I am half black and half white, but relate more to my white side. I'm in no way a racist, I just feel more comfortable in a predominantly white environment. In other words, I don't fit the black stereo type. I like country music, sappy movies, and reading a good book. The number one reason I feel more comfortable around white people is that black people have not embraced me. I get laughed at and ridiculed because of the way I talk, or because my skin is not dark enough to be considered black. With that being said, I have never had a problem with any nationality. I try to embrace everyone. The question is, with Maryville being predominantly white, will I be an outcast, or will I be welcomed with open arms? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[ThatTNGuy]

I'll keep it short and sweet - I think you'd be fine!

[hiknapster]

Don't know about Maryville. I do know that you'd be more than fine in Knoxville. One of my good friends that is sitting next to me right now is bi-racial, from the northeast, and loves it here. The cities here can be different than small towns and rural areas - very generally speaking, of course.

[MetropolitanTN]

You'll be fine in Maryville.

[whatalady]

Originally Posted by Lisa2528

I'm in no way a racist, I just feel more comfortable in a predominantly white environment. In other words, I don't fit the black stereo type. I like country music, sappy movies, and reading a good book. The number one reason I feel more comfortable around white people is that black people have not embraced me. I get laughed at and ridiculed because of the way I talk, or because my skin is not dark enough to be considered black.

Lisa, I am full black( all 90%!!) and have had a very similar experience. Non blacks are always surprised that there is such prejudice within our own race. Growing up I never could "relate" because I was made fun of for speaking proper english and doing well in school. Go figure. No problems as an adult. I love country music, bluegrass, hip hop, r&b, rock, folk, americana and the list goes on!!! I'm an avid reader. Just be yourself and people will accept all of you, black and white. Most problems like the above will be found in the lower economic range. Not always though. Keep in mind, blackness and ghettoness are not one in the same. I love my blackness, but I am in no way ghetto! That's a topic that can go on for days.

My children are mixed and we will be making the move to Maryville this summer, God willing.
Something funny, my husband is white and everyone thinks he sounds black. Trust me he doesn't try, it's natural.
People think I sound white on the phone and I love to see that split second of shock when they see me in person.

All the best!