Name: Siloe Lukusa
Age: 19
Hometown: Kansas City, MO
Current Town: Liberty, MO
College/Major: Metropolitan Community College (Maple Woods) - Nursing
Interests: Music, Skateboarding
What does being Black mean to you?
“For me, being Black is something that sets me apart from others. In my earlier years, it scared me to be different, but now my heritage is a big part of who I am.”
What is the earliest experience with racism that you remember?
“In preschool, some of the girls would call me ‘caca’ in reference to the color of my skin. They would go out of their way to make fun of me on the playground and wouldn’t let me play with them.”
What do you want non-Black POC and white allies to know right now?
“I think unity and working together is the only way changes can be made. I think it’s especially important right now for everyone to take the time to research and hear from others before they are quick to speak out. In an age where information spreads quickly and a time where once silenced people get a chance to speak, it's so important that the correct face is on the forefront.”
Do you have a story you want to share about race, racism, colorism, prejudice?
“Growing up in a predominantly white area, I fell victim to people getting too comfortable around me and thinking it's okay to say things they shouldn’t. And because I never had that many friends-of-color, I silenced myself and kept pushing it away. I've had multiple experiences from friends singing the n-word around me, teammates using it as a joking word and even being called a n***** by my employee. I kept quiet about all those incidents for a long time. It wasn’t until just recently that I feel I can reclaim what I have lost. It doesn’t matter the intention of these actions, it's important that these people and all people who have been racist or prejudiced take accountability and make amends to the people they have hurt. Many people think that me calling out these individuals is bold but it's my damn right after what I and people who are scared like I used to be have gone through.”
Have you had any experiences with systemic racism (in school, work, etc.)?
“When my employee called me a n*****, nobody reported it. When my teammates said n*****, everyone was quiet. I could have stood up for myself but I didn’t because I felt alone. You can’t change the past, but you can do better. Don’t be a bystander. There is strength in numbers. Change happens when you speak up for yourself and others.”
Are there any other identities you identify with that you’re okay with sharing (gender-identity, religion, sexual orientation, immigrant, etc.)? Do any of these affect your experience as a BIPOC?
“I am the second born of two Christian immigrant parents from Congo. I also happen to be bisexual. Growing up in an environment where my sexuality is deemed as wrong is very hard. However, as I grow and get to know myself and develop my relationship with God, I feel the most me I ever have.”
What are your thoughts on Black fashion trends being stolen by white people? Have you experienced anything like that?
“I think cultural appropriation is a problem all cultures face pretty heavily. There’s a difference between ‘appropriation’ and ‘appreciation.’ Be mindful and respectful when you are trying things out. Make sure you give credit. Don’t be ignorant or rude and do things like swirling your baby hairs and calling yourself Latina.”
What are you passionate about?
“I am passionate about self expression, free speech, and listening to others no matter what they have to say. I also love Chinese food and Rihanna.”
What inspires you?
“Music is my biggest inspiration. Many of the loudest and most impactful voices, I hear through music.”
If you have something you want to promote (your art, music, business, etc.), do it here!
“I have a podcast with my best friend, Elizabeth, called “Friends in a Fusion.” New episodes on Mondays on Spotify and Apple Podcast.”
Here is an organization Siloe would like to promote!
KC Community Bail Fund: https://www.kccommunitybailfund.org/
Here are 20 of Siloe's favorite songs!
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