No matter how much lip service is paid to the subject, racism is still very prevalent in our society. And if you’re from a race that is more of the majority of people in the place where you live and you walk down the street or into a store with someone of a different race or culture, you will get noticed. I don’t think that everyone who turns your direction is attempting to give you the evil eye, but people’s insatiable curiosity about something that is seemingly different to them, can result into glances, stares and yes even dirty looks. Most of the time you can just ignore the stares; not that you won’t notice them, but you can at least dismiss them. But what can you do with blatant comments that leave you feeling worthless?
Often times, I think when the comments coming from family members or close friends, it hurts the most. When you have people already close to your heart that judge others because of differences, it is really hard to know what to say. Ultimately, the person closest to you often just thinks they are sharing an opinion or helpful advice because it may be a belief held dear to them. Sometimes the best think to do, is to ignore the comments no matter how ignorant a remark is given that severing ties may not be possible. Another way to cope with blatant racism is by having an honest discussion with the offender in private. By telling the person how you feel may not get the offender to change his or her mind, but at least they might stop harassing you with “advice” and comments. Other times, you might find yourself walking away from relationships with such people altogether, if it comes to that.
Ultimately, the only way to bridge the gap between ignorance and being able to enjoy relationships comes in the form of communication. By learning about others no matter what their background through honest conversation, you’ll find the strength in each other and the relationship you possess to combat anyone else’s opinion.