Too White to be Black and too Black to be White: Living with Albinism
by
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Introduction
The purpose of this book is to generate awareness concerning the subject of albinism, particularly within the black community. For over thirty years I have been silent while members of the black race have continually ostracized, ridiculed as well as humiliated me in public. Because of this constant torment I soon became my own worst enemy. This book is intended to give parents of children with Albinism an idea of the constant torment their children could experience, due to the fact that there is not a lot of information available on albinism. This will be a kind of handbook for parents, so they can communicate with their children, so they will have some idea of how their child may be feeling.
I want to inform all readers in advance that this book may contain examples that are very extreme and this may cause a sensitive reaction. The reason for these extreme examples is because throughout my life I have on too many occasions not been taken seriously when I have tried repeatedly to express what I was feeling inside as a result of the torment I was constantly subjected to. I also want to point out that the issue of race is discussed in great detail, and I also do not hesitate to express my opinion. This is because I have not only experienced racial prejudice by people who are white, ironically the majority of the constant ostracism and ridicule came from people who were from my own race who did not want to acknowledge the fact that I was a member of the black race. This has given me a very interesting view on both races.
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About the Book
This book takes a close look at the life of a black male living with albinism. It gives the reader insight as to what life can be like for a black male or female with albinism growing up within the black community and the impact public humiliation, intimidation, and ridicule can have on an individual long-term. In addition this book can serve as a guide to both parents and young adults who may know someone or may themselves may be dealing with the hardship(s) of living with albinism. I not only discuss my own experiences but also those of others who have had a great influence in my life.
About the Author
Lee G. Edwards was born December 27, 1961 in Tuskegee, Alabama. He is the son of Mr. Marvin A. Metcalf and Mrs. Margaret H. Metcalf. As one of five children which include three sisters and one brother he is the only one with albinism. Lee is a 1992 graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Management. Mr. Edwards has been faced with the difficulty of living with albinism in the black community. In meeting the challenge he co-founded the Dayton Area Persons with Albinism in 1987. He also became a member of the National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation (N.O.A. H.) in 1987. Lee has had the opportunity to discuss the subject of albinism on radio talk shows in Ohio and Alabama. In June of 2000 Lee has founded the Atlanta Area Persons with Albinism with mid to long-term goal of hosting the N.O.A. H. conference. He has dedicated his life to making a positive difference in the lives of others who may be finding it difficult living with albinism.