I felt protective of the Black joy before me. I didn’t want to share it. You did not earn this, I thought. We built this beauty from the ruins granted us. This celebration belongs to us.
When Black Joy Has White Witnesses
Dominique Matti
31030
Every year, when I see more white faces at NYC’s West Indian day parade I get angry, noticeably irritated even. Black joy is often born out of triumph and perseverance and absent-minded participation belittles the hardship that bore the festivities that are displayed.