ASIAN, WHITE, BLACK....
These three words and more is how society categorizes people. Some may call these stereotypes or even racists remarks but for me a person is more than the color of their skin or how they look. It wasn't until I came up with this blog that I've thought of the how many different cultures and backgrounds people come from. Oftentimes, people don't take the time to appreciate people of different backgrounds and that's how categories like asian, white, and black came about. I'm not saying that these terms are considered offensive but when people use these words to hurt someone or offend them. The results can be detrimental mentally and even physically. I used to experience the effects of name calling when I was in elementary school and middle school where I was often teased for my looks. I always wondered "why can't I be white or black so no one would tease me for how I look?" Now that I look back at those times, I've come to realize the people that teased me weren't ready to accept people of different backgrounds. Different languages, cultures, and faces bring people together and I've seen the results. As a senior in high school, from time to time I've experienced some teasing from peers at school but instead of being hurt by such words. I take those words and I return with kindness and understanding. From understanding my mother language, I'm able to understand and accept people of different cultures. And so I ask my readers, are you open to different cultures? races?
I am always open to accepting new cultures and races. You are completely right about the race names being used to insult people. Why do you think that is?
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, now and back then, people are racist against their own race, like Mrs. Turner in Their Eyes Were Watching God.
I completely agree. There are so many things I want to do with my life, but this is one of the main reasons I've chosen anthropology: so I can help other see that the color of your skin doesn't make you more or less than the next person.
ReplyDeleteWhat I find ironic is that people that are from different cultures don't know that they have a lot more in common than they think. When I watch Korean dramas, I see some mannerisms Nigerians practice as well and it always amazes me.
I felt like sharing this example because it just goes to show that we are more alike than we are aware of and calling people out because of their skin color should have no merit in the kind of society we live in. We live in such a sad and blind world and it sucks ):
Wow, Amanda! You're right! I've never thought about it that way. Mrs. Turner from TEWWG is a very good example when it comes to racism within a race. I feel like when it comes to that kind of racial tension within a race, its more of shame because I think Mrs. Turner didn't want to be perceived as a typical black person in that time. You could also see this when she was only willing to associate with Janie but not Teacake.
ReplyDeleteAs for what you said Eniola, I've never thought about the connections some cultures have that we tend to miss...I really like your comment and I honestly didn't know that you chose anthropology for that reason. I would really like to hear more about why you want to pursue anthropology. :)