Entry #7

Racism is a difficult topic for most. However it is very real, and although many countries have come very far when it comes to eliminating racism, it is still very much present. Specifically the U.S has come very far since the 20th century and many like me are grateful for the Martin Luther King’s, and the Rosa Park’s, who fought so hard to eradicate racial discrimination. Nevertheless, racism is very much alive and although many don’t see it, it often happens right in front of our eyes. We hear about police shootings against black males almost every other week and it is just not okay. Sometimes racism is very blatant and obvious but it can also be more subtle, as seen by racial profiling done by law enforcement officers and other government officials, and the near impossibility for some groups, especially African Americans, to break the cycle of poverty. Due to strict policies in schools, disadvantaged black kids often end up being thrown out of schools and into the criminal justice systems, instead of being given a second chance and receiving counseling within the school system. This isn’t a fair system because not all kids are on the same playing field. Kids who are privileged, specifically white kids, have better preparation and more access to helpful resources, such as tutors and textbooks. When a school system is set up like this it creates an endless cycle of racism because the colored students who lack an education find it harder to succeed. It is past time that we stop looking at a person based on the color of their skin, and instead for who they really are. As a society we should help all our colored communities because everyone deserves a chance at making more money and have a higher standard of living.

Word Count: 303