Ishmail is committed to created positive dialogue that helps to bridge the gap of culture and understanding between everyone, regardless of background or ethnicity and is available on Twitter to join conversations and help dispel myths about cultural topics he is versed in, like Africans perceptions of African-Americans.

The first time I was called a nigger in a public environment was several years ago. An older white man called me a nigger at a high school football game. My youngest sister was a member of the dance team, and I was there to support her and see my old friends. He didn’t appreciate the laughter coming from our section. He was high up in the football stands and made a point to yell it to my group of friends. Everyone just fell quiet, and he sat down. I will never forget the feeling in my stomach. I am a victim of verbal racism.