You probably know who Amber Ruffin is. She was a writer and performer for Late Night with Seth Myers and now the host of her own eponymous show. While she has experienced her share of racism, it pales in comparison to the batshit racist moments her sister, Lacey, has experienced living in their hometown of Nebraska. Togther they tag team campfire tales of everyday racism that would shock you in their absurdity. There are stories about the coworker who thought Indians were “dirty” because her Indian neighbor didn’t know how to use a lawn mower. There’s the time Lacey’s stalker waltzed right up to her treadmill because the front staff didn’t think they needed to be concerned by the man wearing a suit. And then there was the fool who accused Lacey of sitting in his seat…while she was standing against a wall.
So many of these stories will make you say “No way! Nobody would be that rude.” and “people aren’t that stupid in 2022.” But that’s the problem. It happens with such frequency that they were able to fill an entire book – one that had to be edited down to only some of the stories that could be discussed humorously. Why funny? Because that makes this stuff approachable for white women. I’m ashamed to admit that, but it’s true. I’m also ashamed to admit that I have likely inadvertantly made a well-meaning but ignorant and hurtful comment or two in my time. It just seems probable because, if this book is correct (and why wouldn’t it be?), this stuff happens all. the. time. Did I know microaggressions (and aggressive aggressions) occurred? Of course. Did I have a true understanding of the sheer volume? Nope. Not until I’m reading them rattled off like a CVS receipt from someone who has experienced it. Consider my eyes opened.
4.5 out of 5 stars.
Pair with: Sangria
Peaches to Apples 