I firmly agree with Tatum that prejudice of other races, colors and nationalities are difficult to escape in the society we live in today. The media relies on stereotypes to pull in viewers. Stereotypes are what make television enjoyable. For this to be changed, we need to find another method of humor because clearly stereotyping races is damaging kid’s perception of other races.
However, as we have discussed in previous classes, the FCC can only do so much to limit the content of televised programs and this would not be possible. Therefore, I like the reeducation model, illustrated by Tatum, which proposes that we reassess our own prejudices and examine our thought processes. It is clear that only with careful self-reflection can we fully eliminate racism from out communities.
As displayed through many of Tatum’s examples, racism is still clearly an issue today. Whether it is at the workplace, purchasing a home, hailing a cab or any other aspect of day to day life, it still affects the decisions we make. It shouldn’t. Tatum says that most people say they are not racist or prejudiced against any race but the only way to really be non-racist or non-prejudiced is to take the time to calculate your actions to make certain that you are not in any way acting racist.
However, as much as I respect her view, I do strongly disagree with her definition of racism and the idea that racism is limited to the majority. In my opinion, racism is applicable to anyone who believes they are better than another race. Racism is not only a manifestation of power over another race; it is a perception, a thought that you are better than another. A distorted process of thought which allows you to reason uncontrollably. Therefore, Tatum, you are incorrect in my view.
And to add to Tatum’s discussion of Who Am I? in Part II I believe that best way to go about grouping yourself is to group yourself as loosely as possible with any race. In America specifically, we are usually made up of many different backgrounds. It is important to recognize and appreciate your heritage but the more you identify with one race or another, the more separate you are from another race. To be a human amongst all other humans is the best way to think of yourself because then we are all of one, human race.
