Many wondered if the election of Barack Obama could signal an end to racism. To some this could have been an overall sign of the end of racism, but surely anyone who is in touch with the outside world would find this to be false during their daily routines.
Even the president himself was aware that racism could not be eradicated by his presidency.
Contrary to the claims of some of my critics, black and white, I have never been so naïve as to believe that we can get beyond our racial divisions in a single election cycle, or with a single candidacy-particularly a candidacy as imperfect as my own,” Obama said.
The fact of the matter is that racism exists in every culture and cannot be eradicated without unification between them. There must be a willingness to practice empathy with everyone, including those with major differences.
Understanding racism also requires an emotional understanding to the feelings and experiences one feels through racial prejudice.
Many feel that racism and the behaviors that further racist mindsets are a cultural phenomenon. Oppression, neglect and a lack of expressed love, however, are factors that transcend cultures and race.
The circumstances and makeup of one’s surrounding through the crucial development years are where minds and hearts are led astray. The link between culture and racism comes from the belief that culture precedes racist mentalities. The fact that communities are not usually uniform in race or culture is one thing to consider in contrast to the former common claim. Also, the combination of neglected communities, low socioeconomic status and poor education perpetuate and contribute to the hardships that can breed racism.
History provides us with evidence that oppressed cultures and people have often led to racism that progresses over time.
To imagine that racism will dissolve is equal in divinity to everlasting love, and the absence of greed, suffering and hatred.
So as the Fall 2010 semester begins, embrace the diversity around you at our University and be proud that you walk the hallways of one of the most diverse campuses in America.
