Former First Lady Michelle Obama recently stopped by for an interview with Gayle King. The two planned to talk about Obama's new show on Netflix, Waffles + Mochi, but the conversation shifted to more serious matters. During the interview, the best-selling author spoke candidly about the recent conviction of Derek Chauvin and police brutality in the United States. Answering from a more personal point of view, the Netflix host spoke about fears and anxiety she experiences as a Black woman in America.
“Many of us still live in fear, as we go to the grocery store, or worry about our — walking our dogs — or allowing our children to get a license," Obama told King.
As the conversation developed, the former First Lady told King about the fears she has a Black mother when Malia Obama and Sasha Obama go out with friends. Like any parent, she fears for her daughters' safety, but her concerns are heightened as many Black teens fear for their safety.
“Every time they get in a car by themselves, I worry about what assumption is being made by somebody who doesn't know everything about them,” Obama said.
“The fact that they are good students and polite girls. But maybe they're playin' their music a little loud. Maybe somebody sees the back of their head and makes an assumption."
As the nation has mourned the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Breonna Taylor, Freddie Gray and countless others, a new generation of community leaders and organizers has emerged. Obama thanks those activists for “taking to the streets because they have to.”
“They're trying to have people understand that — that we're real folks,” Obama said.
“And the fear that many have of so many of us is irrational. And it's based on a history that is just — it's sad, and it's dark. And it's time for us to move beyond that.”
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