Meaning: This quote by James Earl Jones sheds light on the complex and often misunderstood issue of internalized racism. In this quote, Jones reflects on his grandmother's response to the pervasive racism in society. He describes her as preparing in a "neurotic" and "psychotic" manner to face racism, suggesting that her response was deeply ingrained and perhaps irrational. Jones then goes on to reveal that his grandmother taught them to be racist, a troubling revelation that he later had to confront and unlearn when he moved to Michigan.

This quote highlights the insidious nature of racism and how it can be perpetuated from one generation to the next, often without individuals being fully aware of the impact of their actions and beliefs. Jones' acknowledgment of the need to "undo" the racism that was ingrained in him by his grandmother speaks to the long-term effects of internalized racism and the journey of unlearning and confronting deeply held prejudices.

It is important to understand that the effects of internalized racism are not limited to any one racial or ethnic group. Individuals from marginalized communities can internalize negative beliefs about their own group, while individuals from the dominant group may unconsciously adopt and perpetuate racist attitudes and behaviors. In the case of Jones, his grandmother's teachings reflect how individuals within marginalized communities can inadvertently perpetuate racism as a means of survival in a hostile society.

The quote also raises the issue of the intergenerational transmission of racism. Jones' grandmother likely learned her racist views from her own experiences and upbringing, and she passed them on to her grandchildren as a way of preparing them to navigate the hostile racial climate. This transmission of beliefs and behaviors from one generation to the next underscores the pervasive and enduring nature of racism in society.

Jones' acknowledgment of the need to "undo" the racism he learned from his grandmother also speaks to the process of unlearning and challenging internalized prejudices. This process can be difficult and uncomfortable, requiring individuals to confront deeply ingrained beliefs and attitudes. It also underscores the importance of education, exposure to diverse perspectives, and critical self-reflection in dismantling internalized racism.

This quote serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing dialogue and action to address the roots and manifestations of racism. It calls for a collective effort to confront and dismantle the systems and beliefs that perpetuate discrimination and inequality. By acknowledging the impact of internalized racism and the need to unlearn and confront it, individuals can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

In conclusion, James Earl Jones' quote sheds light on the complex and enduring impact of internalized racism. It serves as a reminder of the intergenerational transmission of racist beliefs and the need for individuals to actively confront and unlearn ingrained prejudices. By recognizing the insidious nature of internalized racism and the need for collective action, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society.