Passing:

This paper seeks to examine issues and circumstances related to passing both as a function of social conditions of discrimination/oppression and in terms of the consequences for the individuals and groups who may practice it. For the purpose of this illustration, two minority groups for whom passing is an issue, "interracial blacks" and "homosexuals," will be analyzed in detail. The existence of this phenomenon clearly illustrates certain of the dynamics of oppression; the means by which this oppression is exercised; and some of the adaptations which those who endure it may adopt.