Don't Call Me White

Rancid's song 'Don't Call Me White' is a powerful declaration against the stereotypes and labels that society imposes based on race and appearance. The repeated refrain 'Don't call me white' serves as a defiant rejection of being categorized solely by skin color. The lyrics delve into the frustration and anger that arise from being pigeonholed and judged based on superficial traits. The song questions the semantics and language that perpetuate stereotypes, highlighting the malice and spite that often accompany such labels.

The song's narrative is deeply personal, with the singer expressing a sense of alienation and resentment towards the societal expectations and prejudices that come with being 'fairskinned.' The lines 'I wasn't brought here, I was born / Circumcised, categorized, allegiance sworn' emphasize the involuntary nature of these labels and the unfair treatment that follows. The singer rejects the notion of being part of any conspiracy or group, asserting their individuality and rejecting the collective guilt often associated with racial identity.

Rancid also critiques the cultural norms and behaviors that are often linked with being 'white,' describing them as 'everything I hate.' The imagery of 'soap shoved in the mouth to cleanse the mind' and 'a buttoned collar, starched and bleached' paints a picture of conformity and repression. The song ultimately calls for personal responsibility and self-acceptance, urging listeners to reject societal labels and embrace their true selves. By refusing to be defined by race, the song champions individuality and challenges the listener to look beyond superficial categorizations.