“You must play basketball with that height and body?” That was a comment I got while I waited in-line, getting ice cream in Yorkville recently. That question and other comments occur regularly such as, “you’re tall”, “you’re a basketball player right?” I’m immune to those comments. My immediate reaction to that question was a subtle smile and inside my head I’m rolling my eyes and shaking head. I actually nudged the person beside me with my elbow to see if they’re hearing these comments. Standing at 6’6” that would be an accurate assumption that athletics was something I did, but my response to that comment was “I play the tuba”. The lady was surprised, but it was believable with the Jazz Fest in town she assumed I was a part of the event. I would have welcomed a “You’re a doctor” or “You must be wealthy and successful businessman”. I like to people watch in these busy streets of Toronto. So many different types of people; sizes, colours, heights, ethnicities, you name it. I always wonder what their stories are, what they do for work, or what they’re going through. I’m pretty sure I’m 110 percent inaccurate of what those things are. Our society is quick to label or judge people by merely looks without knowing someone or having a conversation. We need to be more aware of prejudices, labels and stereotypes. I know that society has already labeled me. I’m secure and my self-esteem will continue to be high because I know who I am. I’m more than just a 6’6” black male. I am a son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. I’m first grade teacher, a coach, an entrepreneur of a clothing brand, a former professional athlete. I love God and I love people. I know who I am, get to know me!
Jason Faulknor