Reflection 17

In this class, we have extensively studied what Racism is. All throughout my schooling, I was taught that Racism is not a born trait. It is a trait that is taught thorough the years of one’s life. This class helped affirm that statement. As a child, we are not born to feel hate and racist attitudes toward anyone. On the contrary, as a child we love to explore and look at all the different wonders around us. But as our brain begins to develop, we come to “learn” different forms of discrimination in our behavior. When we are finally engulfed in a school where everyone is a different race, religion or gender, our taught habits come into play. Maybe one day the child was watching the news and saw a black man’s picture as the most wanted. He may think that all black men are criminals and cannot be trusted. Or he heard his mother say something negative about the African American next door neighbors. The media and others help influence this terrible derogatory feeling. The feelings of racism might not always be shown on the outside. Just because one doesn’t see the racism in action does not mean that it does not exist or go one in everyday life. It’s horrible to think that some people think these feelings are normal. Feeling hatred and negative feelings toward anyone is not acceptable in my eyes. People should not condone racism. This is a serious issue that has been around for years and years. This is a problem that is always shoved under the rug. Everyone should at least try to see the world through different eyes. The one feeling the hatred toward the race should take a walk in the shoes of the man he hates. Only then, will he be able to see clearly and justly. I recommend that people should take a diversity class at least once in their life. It can help explain situations and maybe help clear the air for some. Like I have stated before, we are not separate races. We all belong to the grand scheme of the Human race. No one is less important than the next. Everyone has a role to play and a purpose in this world. One of the main reasons I think our world is so beautiful is because we are all so different. The world is an exciting place because it changes constantly. Being diverse is part of way I enjoy living where I do. I walk the streets and see so many different people. I feel that everyone should take the time to step back and see how remarkable our life is due to the factor of differences.