px4trane, welcome to the forum...
i liken your question to Fredrick Frankenstein asking Igor about his hump... and Igor's response...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxxSIX3fmmo
I am sure there are some who might react to a person's skin color instead of their exhibited behaviour, but that is their problem, not yours. trust me I have been harassed and left ppl jumping up and down at me. but i was calm to their reactionary posturing, which irritated this gentleman even further to the point they were no longer speaking calmly but shuddering and spiting as he spoke. trust me it was quite a feat to maintain my composure and not look at the man and laugh.
if, as you state, you are new to firearms, i would recommend participating in a formal class (not CHP class) but rather something from perhaps the NRA, say their basic pistol course which could build your confidence on proper handling as well as show you how to provide proper love and care to any firearms you might own.
http://www.nrainstructors.org/searchcourse.aspx shows basic pistol courses are being held. if you experience difficulty locating one that meets your needs pm.
bottom line, it is a problem in your mind, get over it and do not others dissuade you from OC'g and welcome again.
ipse
