We are told from a very young age that life is not fair, but for some, the unfairness runs deeper. For some, injustice, or a feeling of inequity, are ingrained into their mind as a result of societal norms.
Whether it is a Muslim whose hijab incites fear and distrust in others or an African-American who believes that all police officers are deliberately out to get them, there are many citizens in our area that cannot live comfortably because of the preconceived notions of others.
As I have grown up in a predominately rural, poverty-stricken county I have witnessed several incidents involving bigotry against other religions and discrimination against minorities.
I adamantly believe in respecting other religions and our ability to choose which religion we adhere to. Bigotry against certain religions, such as Islam, and the belief that Muslims, or followers of Islam, are automatically terrorists is prevalent in my area.
While it is true that many Muslims seem to veer into radical viewpoints, most of what we believe is based on a small portion of the Muslim population.
Our labeling of all Muslims as terrorist supporters or actual terrorists is therefore false and unfounded. While we do not have to agree with Islamic beliefs, we should not verbally and physically condemn them.
Being a Native American, I am well aware of the long history of racial discrimination against minorities. While I have never personally experienced any form of discrimination, many of my minority peers continue to experience varying forms of discrimination on a regular basis.
Racial discrimination, especially against African-Americans is currently a contentious issue nationwide. There continues to be a steady stream of newsworthy events that revolve around varying degrees of racial discrimination.
As a result of these incidents, a fear of authority figures such as police officers is becoming prevalent among African-Americans. This racial divide is impacting the youth of America and will shape race relations for many years to come.
I firmly believe in tolerance and respect toward others. I believe that violent protests or aggressive movements geared toward forcing change are not an appropriate way to change public opinion.
I believe that non-violent actions and protests, in the vein of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., are the most effective methods of gaining public sympathy and support for your cause.
Through my own personal experiences, I have come to the conclusion that the world is an extremely prejudiced place, in which people adamantly adhere to their own core belief system, and frequently judge and condemn those who do not share the same beliefs.
We, the youth of America, are the future of our country. We have the power to help create a more peaceful society that is more tolerant of others, regardless of their beliefs and lifestyles.
If we strive to be united instead of divided, we can work together to be the catalysts that mend the fractures among our citizens. I hope that by the time I reach adulthood, bigotry against other religions and racial discrimination are not such pressing and prevalent issues.
March 30, 2016
