We're too sensitive about race. This is the idea behind the article below, and Clarence Thomas' words on the subject.
Thomas goes on to say that when he was starting out in the 1960's at an all-white high school, they mentioned race less to him than they do today.
"Everybody is sensitive." This is very true. More on his ideas behind the article are found at the link below.
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Honestly, I'm going to use this opportunity to comment on the actions and comments said in my APUSH class on race.
We're too conscious of race.
Point blank, we're black and white about the "issue" that shouldn't even arise in the class in the first place.
And usually, it is just that: black and white.
I don't want to be constantly reminded that I look different than everyone else in my class; Yes, there are other people of color. No, we are not the exact same shade. We are all different. We're unique. This is what happens in public schools. You'd think that people would be mature enough to not point it out in just about every class period.
IT DOES NOT MATTER IF I'M BLACK AND THE PERSON DIAGONAL FROM ME IS WHITE. I don't care if we're on the subject of slavery or the Harlem Renaissance or racial tension or race riots or segregation in class. That doesn't make my relationship with anyone else in the classroom different.
The jokes need the stop. They won't, but they need to. Just because you are not affected by racially tinged jokes towards you and are comfortable dishing them out, does NOT mean you didn't just offend a large majority of people. It makes things awkward. It's extremely aggravating.
The constant reminder of race is reflective of what is going on inside of you. Your insecurities. Your strengths. Your weaknesses. Your ignorance. Your intelligence.
Maybe we can compromise. Mention it less.
I don't expect it to completely disappear.
I don't expect anything.
I'm being sensitive.
I don't care.
I'm done.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/14/opinion/navarrette-clarence-thomas-race/index.html?hpt=hp_t4
Madison, I completely agree with you!!! A lot of times, people will point out there own race and joke about it as well. All of this really bothers me... I agree with you that people seem to be very aware of race lately. Even if it's not considered discrimination, we make way too big of a deal out of noticing it.
ReplyDeleteAshley Barnes 2nd
The fact that we still distinguish one tone of skin from another by rude and hurtful jokes shows the lack of progression that Americans have taken towards race. We shouldn't need to define or discriminate who we are based on how we look. It's sad how prevalent this issue still is.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree. I do think that we're nearing a day when we can accept everyone just as a human. Especially at Booker T.
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