Shefali,

I was not implying that there has not been progress. Of course, we've come a long way. However, systemic racism is still a huge problem in America and it continues to create inequalities. It has enabled the police to kill Black men. That's why so many people are still protesting. Racism is not residual. It doesn't disappear because someone has Black friends or loves LeBron James.

That being said. I don't dismiss your experience as an Asian woman. The point of any dialogue is to foster understanding. I would love for everyone to see one another as part of the Human Race but I also want people to see and appreciate my Blackness, not devalue it. I'm sure you feel the same way about your heritage.

Obviously, we see things differently, but I think we both want the same thing. That's what is most important.