Michelle Obama Discusses Scrutiny as First Black First Lady, Claims Lack of Grace

Michelle Obama reflects on the intense scrutiny she faced as the first Black First Lady, describing the experience as being under a "white hot glare" that required her to avoid mistakes and denied her the same "grace" other First Ladies received. In her new book, "The Look," and in interviews, she explains that this pressure was amplified by racial dynamics and the politicized environment, where her and Barack Obama's race was used as a fear-based strategy by opponents. Despite these challenges, Michelle Obama holds the record for the most US Vogue covers among First Ladies, highlighting her significant impact on fashion and culture. She expressed that while she initially avoided discussing fashion to keep the public focused on her work, she now embraces style as a form of "soft power" that communicates values and background. Her comments sparked mixed reactions, with some social media users arguing that the Obamas were highly celebrated and questioning her claims of lacking grace. Nevertheless, Michelle's candid discussion sheds light on the complex interplay of race, gender, and public perception during her time in the White House.