Final answer:
Passing is the practice of light-skinned African Americans attempting to live as white in order to avoid the consequences of being black in a racist society.
Step-by-step explanation:
The practice of light-skinned African Americans attempting to live as white in order to avoid the consequences of being black in a racist society is known as passing. Historically, passing was a way for light-skinned African Americans to navigate systemic racism and discrimination by presenting themselves as white. This allowed them to gain access to certain privileges and opportunities that were denied to black individuals. Passing is a complex phenomenon influenced by sociopolitical factors and can be seen as a form of cultural assimilation.