What does the narrator in Battle Royal means when he says you are only ashamed of myself for having at one time been ashamed?

In "Battle Royal," the narrator reflects on his past shame regarding his identity and experiences as a Black man in a racist society. By stating he is now ashamed of having been ashamed, he acknowledges the internalized racism that influenced his self-perception. This realization signifies a shift towards self-acceptance and empowerment, highlighting the struggle against societal expectations and the importance of embracing one's true self. Ultimately, it underscores the narrator's journey toward understanding and rejecting the shame imposed by a prejudiced world.