#3 Seeing Other Mixed People

For most mixed people it’s a rarity to be surrounded by a majority of other mixed people unless they live in extremely multi-ethnic places like New York City or Los Angeles.

So when we see other mixed people we are totally stoked. It’s as if all is right in the world and we remember that we are not alone in our mixed experience. Most mixed people are genetically programmed to spot other mixed people. And if we happen to come across another mixed person in our daily activities we will give them the “mixed nod & smile”. And that just makes our day.

The “mixed nod & smile” is so subtle and well-crafted it has never been caught on tape. Those wanting to witness this ritual in person must pay close attention or they could miss it in the blink of an eye. Once you spot this practice you are one step closer to becoming an expert in all things mixed.

[photo Mavin]

#2 Sandy Blond Hair

There’s something about sandy blond hair that screams “I’m mixed”. And we like it.

We like sandy blond hair so much that we would trademark it at the U.S. Patents Office if we could. A sure fire way to annoy a mixed person is by staring at their hair and asking, “Is that your natural hair color?” and then continue staring at them in near disbelief.  The mixed person will politely reassure you it is indeed their natural hair color until you calm down but secretly they will put you on their mental check-list of people who just don’t get it.

Memorize this before interacting with a mixed person and you will stay in their good grace.

[photo Elizabeth Atkins]

#1 Barack Obama

Future generations of mixed kids will divide time into two categories: Before Barack and After Barack.

Never before has our status of being mixed been so out in the open.  Barack is totally en vogue right now. He gives inspiring speeches. Shows off his basketball skills to the press. Has a legion of “Obama Girls” crushing on him. Black people like him. White people like him. Hispanic people like him. He’s so friggin’ likeable it’s crazy. Plus, he’s related to Brad Pitt.

A quick way to score points with a mixed person is when someone haphazardly mentions that Barack could be the first black president be quick to remind the said person that he’s biracial lest they forget just how “in style” mixed people are. All mixed people within 5 feet with appreciate your friendly correction and if things go right you may have gained yourself a trendy mixed ally.