How to teach biracial kids to cope with racist comments?

by Kathleen
(Santa Barbara, CA)

I am the white single mother of a beautiful, intelligent and sensitive 12 year old biracial boy. He has started in a new school (a junior high) where he's doing well. Recently, he told me another boy has been calling him "the N word" -- I'm struggling with what to say to my son. I'd like him to acknowledge the inhumanity of the racial slur but not carry the sting of it, nor hate the other child. Am I expecting too much? What can I do to bolster his self-esteem?

I reported the incident to the school principal, who spoke to my son and promises to speak to the other child. I don't know if this will help. Any suggestions would be welcome.