Black stereotypes are destructive because they’re connected to racism and discrimination. They insidiously form your unconscious biases that are reflected in your assumptions, beliefs and attitudes toward us as Black people. Not only do stereotypes strip away our individuality and our true character, but they rob us of access and opportunities that we rightfully deserve.

ace, racism, and discrimination is different. So it’s important to listen, even when things get uncomfortable. For some it stirs up SHAME, GUILT, or DENIAL while, for others, FRUSTRATION, ANGER and EMOTIONAL EXHAUSTION. I remember when a Pilates student of mine casually declared that racism didn’t exist anymore. My blood instantly boiled before leaving my body. My brain filled with expletives and a gazillion snarky responses. But …