Sunday Conversation

10/04/2009 Human Observations
There are three subjects that are taboo in modern journalism: racism, obesity, and personal hygiene. So I’ll discuss them all. We avoid the discussion of racism in the USA because it causes extreme discomfort to “the comfortable”. Like poverty, destitution, the physically and mentally challenged, homelessness, and child abuse … racism continues to occupy a prevalent space in the minds of many, especially in certain national regions. Some young Americans, who grew up where integration is socially acceptable, have no direct experience in discrimination, so their logic tells them that racism does not exist, because they have not witnessed it first hand. However, the subtle roots of racist practices infect even the most tolerant of social situations when greed inspires the surrender of sound judgment. If all things were equal, there would be equal opportunity for all Americans. So … are all things equal? No! Have all things been equal for generations of folks to accumulate equal economic, social, and political positioning? No! Are there many Americans who believe in equality? Yes. Are there many Americans who are in positions of power and authority would deliberately and intentionally impair the socio-economic progress of others specifically because of their race? Yes. As long as we refuse to talk about this very discomfiting subject, racists will be able to practice THEIR craft within the secure darkness of OUR denial. Just like child abuse, racism loses its fire when exposed to the light. That which was whispered in secret will be shouted from the housetops.