Blackface?? In 2024!??
On Thursday I called back a patient to take his xrays and he was being very weird/awkward and trying not to look at me. I noticed he had something all over his face that was rubbing off on his hoodie and his pants but I just figured he was in construction; thatās typical to get sawdust or dirt everywhere, but at the same time, I live in Texas so why are you wearing a hoodie/jeans in 98 degree weather.
After finishing his xrays he had to do his new patient exam with the doctor and I let the doctor know that the patient didnāt have any concerns but he was being weird. I laughed it off because āuhh awkwardā. The patient even acted like he never been to the dentist before but I know he has because he has had fillings done at another office.
Finished his exam and took him to a room so he could get his cleaning. I had to take his blood pressure but he did not was to roll up his sleeve. I told him why I needed him to roll his sleeve up and he still wouldnāt do it. Eventually he did but thatās when I noticed his skintone on his arms DID NOT match the tone of his face (his arms >āš¼: his face >āš¾)
Long story short, I let upper management (the doctors wife) know and I eventually started crying because I took what the patient was doing as performing blackface. She understood and comforted but also let me know that if I was uncomfortable I shouldāve walked out the room (understandable). She also let me know that she shouldāve said something because while the patient was waiting in the lobby, he went to the bathroom 3 times and she saw makeup powder all over the counter and sink.
She then let the doctor know how I felt and he told me that he doesnāt think he was doing blackface but probably had a skin condition he was trying to cover up (but why would you choose a product 3 times darker than your skintone?). Then the doctor proceeded to say that he has 3 grandparents that are black so he is also black he just doesnāt look like it, and coming from New Orleans, he has experienced a lot of racism growing up.
I felt like I wasnāt heard by the doctor but I was heard by his wife. Either way, what do yall think?
#blackgirl #blackface #racist #letschat #unfiltered #embracevulnerability #dayinmylife #energy #storytime #letsbereal
In today's society, discussions about race and identity are more crucial than ever. The discomfort felt by healthcare professionals when encountering potential 'blackface' situations reveals broader implications of cultural appropriation. Patients may navigate personal or societal issues that lead to complex expressions of identity, often met with misunderstanding. Furthermore, skin conditions and cosmetic choices may create misinterpretations of race, raising questions regarding representation in various settings, especially professional environments. Expanding the dialogue on race can foster understanding and promote inclusivity. Conversations centered around experiences like these might encourage sensitivity training in medical fields, emphasizing awareness of racial dynamics. As we navigate these issues, it is essential to engage compassionately, ensuring everyone feels seen and understood. Building a framework where practitioners and patients share cultural insights can create a healthier dialogue that demystifies uncomfortable encounters while respecting individual experiences.
Thatās so odd and strange Iām sorry you experienced that. I wonder what their story was or what ultimately led them to that decision :(