Request to Keep the Secret
Alvera asked Gail to keep her secret until she died. Though the daughter was sad, she kept her mother’s secret for 17 years and never spoke to anyone about it. She asked for more information, but her mom never shared anything more.
The True Reason
She realized that her mom wanted a better life and decided to pass as white to get it. She had more opportunities but had to turn her back on her family, which was a huge sacrifice. Alvera never had a chance to be her authentic self.
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