The separation of races is not just a fact of "history", itΓÇÖs still being encouraged and practiced. There have been many forced efforts to "integrate" the masses, everything from school bussing to affirmative action programs. Sincere efforts to balance the scales of injustice from the past sometimes seem to do nothing more than create a new kind of injustice to replace the old one. If minorities are given preferential treatment in job hiring or scholarships, it leaves others angry and feeling that 'two wrongs don't make a right.' Many of the past efforts and the recent public rhetoric of "encouraged separatism" have left entire races of people feeling uncomfortable about working closely with each other, or feeling respectful.
At schools across the country, you can walk into the cafeteria and see a table of blacks, a table of Hispanics, a table of Asians and tables of whites, all eating separately. We seem to have lost our sense of "community" and may even feel okay about that. In the midst of all this, bi-racial students, a growing segment of our population, may not even know how to fit in without alienating everybody! If you try to break down all the tensions, you can be called a "stepout," a "wannabee," or something even more negative, like a "wigger" (whites wanting to befriend blacks). Celebrating diversity, building true community is one of the primary challenges for the next generation.
What do you think?
WE WANT YOUR STORIES
What happens to Elaine is a clear illustration of the problems we face in the sometimes cruel world and the temptation to carry anger all the way to the end. We want to know what kinds of discrimination, racism or harassment you've faced in life. What incredible moment have you experienced where the treatment was real and painful? Have you got any really humorous stories? Where do you see prejudice and disrespect in your daily life at school? Send us your juicy stories. Let us know what you suggest for solving this problem. We'll be looking for unique stories or essays to publish. Let your creative sparks fly. Send your stories to Sweet! Digizine, at 148 S. Victory Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502.
