I have always known I am Black, of course. That fact is as plain as my name.
But the weight of that identity, the experience of being seen as Black in the eyes of a society where I became a visible minority, didn’t truly sink in until six years ago, when I moved to Germany.”
It hit me quietly but profoundly: “Oh wow… I am really Black here.”
Back in 2019, I thought the world was a global village. I assumed people were better informed, that skin colour was just a minor detail. I was, in many ways, sorely mistaken.
My experience as a Black woman in Germany has been a blend of curiosity, frustration, resilience, and unexpected joy. It’s the awkward stares on the U-Bahn and the endless hunt for hair products that won’t leave my hair looking electrocuted. But it’s also about finding my footing, my voice, and my community.
After living here for over six years, I can say this: being Black in Germany is a daily education.
The Silent Language of Stares
Whether you’re a tourist, a student, or planning to stay long term, one of the first things you’ll notice is the stares. These aren’t subtle side glances; they’re long, deliberate looks, as if some people have never seen a Black person before.
To be fair, Germans stare in general; it’s part of the culture. But when you’re the only Black person in a small town like Wismar (where I first lived), it can feel like you’re an exhibit on display. Most days, I tag it as curiosity rather than hostility. Still, the constant visibility is draining.
The Weight of Assumptions
Being Black in Germany can mean:
- Being quietly followed in a store, as if you’re guilty until proven otherwise.
