" My father identified as a black man. No one asked him because he was clearly black. But people always ask me. If we were together, people would look at us in a really strange way. It sucked. As a little girl I had blond hair and they’d look at me, look at him, and be disgusted. "
- Mariah Carey

In the quote, Mariah Carey describes her experience growing up as a mixed-race individual. She highlights how society perceives racial identity differently depending on the person's physical appearance and background. Her father identified clearly as a black man due to his outward appearance, while she often faced questions about her own racial identity because of her lighter features.

The quote delves deeper into issues of race, identity, and societal expectations. Mariah Carey discusses how people’s reactions changed when she was with her father—she notes the discomfort and even disgust from others who seemed confused by their visibly different appearances. This highlights broader social dynamics around mixed-race individuals and the complexities they face in a racially segregated society. The quote also touches on early childhood experiences, illustrating how such societal attitudes can impact self-perception and emotional well-being.

Mariah Carey is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress, renowned for her powerful vocals and numerous hit songs. She was born to a Venezuelan mother and African-American father in New York City. Her personal reflections on race and identity provide insight into the challenges faced by mixed-race individuals within the context of racial stereotypes and societal expectations.