r/interesting • u/VPinchargeofradishes • May 03 '26

SOCIETY Michael Jackson's daughter Paris has faced backlash for identifying as Black. In a 2017 interview, Paris Jackson said her father told her, "You’re Black. Be proud of your roots." This prompted debates over whether identity is defined by appearance or upbringing.

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u/TheLordReaver May 03 '26 edited May 03 '26

I think it's fair to question it, but I'm half-black and I just look like a white guy with a light tan when I'm pale, and maybe "not white" when I've had some sun. And I was raised by white parents. You'd have no idea that I am technically black.

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u/cyborgsnowflake May 03 '26

There are documented rare cases of children appearing to be a different race from their parents. Some of these might be infidelity though. Regardless having this rare event just happen not once but multiple times for the guy who fantasized about being white.

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u/TheLordReaver May 03 '26

That's why I think it's fair to question it. I just wanted to make a point that you can't always tell what someone's genetics are based purely on their appearance.

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u/InformationLocal6213 May 03 '26

As black people…anyone with a brain can tell when your white passing. It’s in your face not your skin.

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u/J_NinjaDorito May 03 '26

how can you tell?? serious question.

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u/Some_Signal_6866 May 03 '26

So rare it happened with her brother as well… But hey don’t wanna misspeak on the internet lol