Martin Luther King Day
Posted by Carolan Gladden at 1/16/2012 9:57 AM 
Categories: Experiences, Black and White, Current Events, thoughts, People, Protesting, Ideals, Passions
Categories: Experiences, Black and White, Current Events, thoughts, People, Protesting, Ideals, Passions
Dr. King's dream may be felt and perhaps even realized
in some areas. But at least in terms of the west coast, which is the area I know,
and taking into account that I'm not a sociologist, I must say that the larger
white world in the US is still incredibly oblivious to most everything about the
Black community.
1. This lack of knowledge (and interest) goes all the
way back to Africa and slave trade history, including the long-term effects of
slavery on everyone on all sides.
2. It is still true that the majority of Caucasians
over 50 have never even met an African-American. This is changing in younger
generations. However, it is older generations who vote and wield political and
financial power.
3. It is also true that the white world gets fed a
dally tv diet of Blacks as criminals, gang members or cops. But nowhere do they
learn of the many impressive accomplishments of Blacks. Nor, indeed, of the fact
that credit for the majority of innovations in the creative areas of music,
dance, language, video, film rightfully goes to African-Americans.
Bottom line, it may not be possible for all people to
be judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character
unless or until we jointly find ways to educate everyone on these applicable
aspects. It's a fact -- once a person gets acquainted with an other, voila!
preconceived notions disappear.
And, I probably shouldn't out my dad but he's a great example, regularly using every imaginable slang term for all minorities. It
was embarrassing! But when he met a person, no matter the background or color,
he made a friend. In fact, a certain Portland blues singer was literally the first Black person he
ever met face to face, at an event I was involved with. And before it was over,
they were singing harmony for impromptu square dancing. (My dad was a Square
Dance Caller.)
Positively,
Carolan
Positively,
Carolan
When we cuddle ignorance is gets comfortable and we refuse to see the other side. The Caribbean is a melting pot. However, our ability to acknowledge other cultures makes our community more than the color of people living there.
In Belize, a day is set aside to celebrate each culture.
That is progress.
Reply to this