On race, identity, and the enduring power of Black womanhood

Deviating a bit from my loose schedule to talk a bit about racial identity, racial/ethnic ambiguity. Thoughts on the concept of "white passing", the "one-drop rule" and their utility (or lack thereof). How much do others' perceptions shape the way we identify? Does living in the Bay Area make it easier to talk about race? What happens to my identity (or yours) when someone brings my own privilege to my awareness?