Racism, Hope & Hopelessness

"Rac•ism - noun - defined as prejudice, discrimination or antagonism against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior."   -via Google

Last night’s episode of Black•ish tackled issues relevant to the black community driving it's Facebook fans wild. Most viewers were proud of the creators and writing team for their innovative way of handling issues of police brutality, black family life and hopelessness. Others chose to use the subject matter as an opportunity to showcase their own racism and ignorance.

Like Dre (Anthony Anderson) & Bow (Tracee Ellis Ross), I've had similar conversations with my daughter about police brutality, racism and being black in America. I've had to help her understand why unarmed black males are shot by the police. I've had to explain to her that as a black woman who chooses to speak her mind, she'll be labeled as an “angry black woman” or be viewed as “menacing”.  I've had to explain politics and our current presidential candidates. (She pays attention when I watch the news and has strong opinions on the subject already.) How are kids supposed to process this?

Racism, as defined above, still exists.

Black people aren't making it up.

I fear for my daughter's generation and the judgement she will endure as an adult, a black woman.

I pray that people's minds open up to the fact that racial disparity exists systemically in this country. It's evident in our justice, education and economic systems. So we don't need people jumping on the judgemental bandwagon. 

Oh and no black people aren't racist. Read the definition again if you don't believe me. We're not professing to be superior. What we seek and have been seeking throughout American history is equality.  

Here's what we need…We need people who are fed up to join the cause.

How can you help? Protest any and all legislation that disproportionately targets minorities. Speak up when you hear someone spouting racist comments about minorities. And support local activists who are fighting to improve the treatment of minorities.

But more importantly...don't put your head in the sand. Racism exists, let's not pretend that it doesn't.

Image from CreateHer