Thanks for taking the time to share this.
I’m a 23 year-old white male who works in retail, and I have been personally attacked in regards to being called a racist, too many times to count. Most of these instances have included me asking to check a receipt. I check every persons receipt as they leave the building. It’s my job.
There is a black man who is about my age, a bit younger, who works along side me. He is my friend. He has never been accused of being a racist. He has actually assured black customers who have “attacked” me that I am, as a matter of fact, not a racist.
Destroying racism can’t be done. Eradicating racism can’t be acheived solely by black people but together, my friend and I acheived positive results through a social experiment that we didn’t even know we were conducting.
Another point that I would like to add , is that combating racism is most effective at the personal, individual level. By personal, individual level, I mean that social media outlets typically don’t inject light into the darkness of a racists eyes.
I’d like for every individual to take a look at the people in your personal life who affect you with racism; This is a controlled experiment. Confront them about it. This isn’t a battle, nor a contest. If you don’t want to confront them, or they aren’t civil, don’t let them in your life. I want everyone to do this because at the individual level you can acheive respect and understanding utilizing active listening and civility. Is there a better way ?
