"How it Feels to Be Colored Me" Question

Why does Hurston use the phrase "extenuating circumstances"? That's a good question, I believe she is trying to say that she is different than other blacks in the United States she isn't indian and sees herself as a regular human being . I'm not to sure really that's a tough question. Thats what I believe it meant. She used that phrase saying that extenuating circumstances because she doesn't see herself as a threat to others even though she is a black woman. I believe she is serious about her race but at the same time she feels mutual, as it states in the reading "At certain times I have no race". meaning she is comfortable with herself whether she is black, white, or asian, making it known that it doesn't matter what you are that were all human regardless. Even when she is around all whites she still fills herself as being her she acknowledges she's black but doesn't pay attention to the fact, even if the environment that she is in is different such as being around a different ethnic group.