“I went from one checkout line to other, looking for the shortest and fastest way out of the store,” Lola said. “Thanks to your long list, my cart was overflowing.” I smiled sheepishly waiting for the story. “Every line was eight full carts deep. Then it came to me.” Lola twinkled, a look perfected during a mischievous childhood. “I turned towards the cosmetics section.” Sectioned off, the cosmetics section was closely monitored and staff treated Black girls as if they were all potential shoplifters. “Immediately, a shop assistant asked if I needed anything. I checked out faster than ever.”

Prejudice is rampant. In some cases, it is blatant, pernicious, and wholly disadvantageous.  Sometimes though, one could find a way the tables on bigotry. This brings satisfaction.