Lessons from a 25 Year Friendship

Despite more opportunities than ever to connect, research shows that interracial friendships between Black and white women are still an anomaly. Several factors play a part, with the biggest obstacle being white women's past and present roles in racism, white supremacy and privilege. While making and maintaining friendships can be a challenge for all women, deep and longstanding racial issues present an additional complexity that many women aren't willing or able to navigate.

When Lorraine and I met as next door neighbors in the Fashion Institute of Technology's dorms, we connected instantly and decided to give it a try. As young women committed to exploring and sharing our truths, we had challenging conversations about race and racism from the start. 

With open minds, hearts and many tears shed along the way, we've learned how to share, listen and learn from one another with compassion, honesty and love.

All these years…