As we are nearing the
half way point of this amazing opportunity to facilitate and engage youth in
the movement of bridging the gaps of social inclusion, this week I have decided
to reflect on the journey thus far. Each
week this group of committed, energized and passionate youth and young adults
continue to amaze me in their genuine insight and ideas. Their voices highlight
the raw reality that exist for minority cultures right here in our community;
but, their voices also instill hope in a new generation seeking social reform
and change that is inclusive of all.
Each week as I am
grateful to be witnessing the conversations taking place among this group of
youth, my own knowledge continues to grow and be challenged. As participants identify the real life obstacles
they endure on a daily basis, my mind is constantly brainstorming how I, as a
social worker, can be supportive of creating change both at the micro and macro
levels. These meetings provide a learning opportunity that could never exist
within a textbook.
With
the current political campaign flooding social media, I recently viewed a
Washington Post article that addressed the increased racism emerging from
Donald Trump supporters. John Hinderaker of the conservative website PowerLine,
declared that this presidential candidate is not racist, but rather, “careless
and undisciplined.” https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/donald-trump-is-a-bigot-and-a-racist/2015/12/01/a2a47b96-9872-11e5-8917-653b65c809eb_story.html?utm_term=.2ea25701e3c6
How can we continue to make up excuses for such ignorance and discrimination to occur? Instead
of trying to validate the violence and injustices that have occurred at Trump
rallies, as a society we need to stand up against this hatred.
I
reflect back to the statement one youth made a couple of weeks ago while
brainstorming any fears in bridging the gap of social inclusion: “I am afraid
of being harmed or killed.” It is NOT acceptable that our society allows for
such a terror to exist. It is NOT okay
we continue to blame and put human beings in categories, such as “drug dealers,”
because of the color of their skin.
Diversity exists, and needs to be embraced. The youth and young adults engaging each week
with us, are brave souls, taking on the task of challenging the “careless”
mindsets of others. I truly applaud their courage!
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