AustLit

'Ben is racist. That's not unusual — lots of people are. In fact, globally, racists are having a bit of a moment. I first became conscious to racism at eight years old. I wanted to be a gymnast then. I'd been looking forward to the final session of gymnastics training all week because after watching all my teammates win 'gymnast of the week', I knew it was my turn (everyone will win an award by the end of the year). Showing off, I spent most of the session teaching Ma how to do a handstand. I was gutted when I lost the final award of the year to her (for her amazing hand-stands). She was the only one among us to win twice. I looked around, and for the first time I realised everyone else was white, including Coach Norris. It wasn't that he didn't see me; it was that he did.' (Introduction)