Black community Quote by Baratunde Thurston
““One such question revolved around the informal institution of black kids eating together in the cafeteria. I’m going to let you in on a secret: growing black children like to eat. In a majority-white school, they are often friends with other black people. This has been known to result in black kids eating together at the same table. While this terrorist cell–like activity is a perceived clear and present danger to some in the non-black community, the agenda at most of these nefarious, exclusive gatherings consisted of talking about classes, flirting, making fun of each other, and, oh, plotting the downfall of White America—but only on every third Tuesday.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast episode, The Daily, 2018
The speaker sat that black children naturally gravitate toward each other in a predominantly white school, which some view as threatening but is actually harmless social interaction.
In simple terms: Black kids tend to sit together, which some fear but is just normal behavior.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and respect natural social groups.
Themes
social dynamics
race relations
school culture
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
observational
social commentary
When to use this quote
- classroom seating
- school policy
- community dialogue
- diversity training
Key Concepts
in-group bonding
perceived threat
stereotyping
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance cultural comfort with integration?
- What assumptions drive fear of simple social patterns?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook individual preferences for mixed groups.
![“Knowing that "me" is inextricably linked to blackness, [I try to enjoy] the process of expanding beyond the expected boundaries set by existing culture, norms and media.” quote by Baratunde Thurston](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d5c/baratunde-thurston-20128_blackness_knowing-that-me-is-inextricably-linked-t_1178100.jpg)
