An Incident of Bias, Prejudice, or Oppression
I'm sad to say that a conversation I had with my mother recently revealed some biased comments from her. She was talking about a news segment she had seen where the local Salvation Army was giving out backpacks filled with school supplies to the children who needed them. She unfortunately stated that most of them were black. I'm sure the story was about the help available with the high cost of going back to school but my mother had to point out the color of the skin the majority of children receiving the supplies had. It was an unnecessary comment to the new story.
This comment diminished equity because I'm sure the Salvation Army did not discriminate against anyone who showed up for the backpacks but were happy to offer assistance to any family needing it. My mother, with her comment, was not seeing the bigger picture-that children needing supplies were getting them-but went to specific lengths to point out their race.
The comment left me feeling disappointed but I then realized I had heard comments like this all the time I was growing up, but mostly from my father. It is through this class that I have learned crucial information so that I can monitor my thoughts and words to avoid making a similar comment.
I will need to have a discussion with my mom about her comment and share with her my thoughts on equity for children. Then, maybe she will be able to look at other similar new stories with a new viewpoint.
Laurie,
ReplyDeleteI feel that your mother did not mean any harm. We have to look at the generational gap. People conduct themselves according to their family culture.
I was raised by my grandparents. They taught me that prejudice will be every where I go. I must be able to not allow others actions to sway my character. Be polite, obedient, and pray for those who cause harm to you. Laurie, thank you for sharing your post. I truly feel your mother meant no harm and is a very sweet lady.
Chere'e
Laurie-
ReplyDeleteI agree with Chere'e in that comments and ideas like this were more common in your Mother's generation. Back then, it was not uncommon to hear and see prejudice on a daily basis. It is probably hard for you Mother to break the habit of making these comments because of this. I applaud you in having this difficult conversation with your Mother about how her comment could be hurtful. Education is key.
-Melanie
Laurie. Is important to let them know to the others that we all need respect and that is sad when people made discrimination to others, but we are on time to change those prejudices that we had. because we could make the difference
ReplyDeletegood post
I see this a lot, especially in the city where I live. The broadcasts on tv are trying to share a good story but people just make negative comments towards the people in the story. IT was just a great thing that these children were getting the supplies they need to help them be successful in the beginning of the school year.
ReplyDelete