Un- “woking” America

Our nation is in crisis. For the first time in over a century and a half, we stand on the brink of civil war. Racial tensions in this country are being provoked by the media and our own elected officials. The world is shaking its collective head as they watch our nation suffer this ignominy.

Before the Civil Rights movement, black citizens of this country lived in a very clear disparity where it related to employment, education, and basic human dignity. The protests of the 1960s and 70’s ushered in a change in the thoughts and understanding of white, middle-class Americans to the truth of the divide that separated the two cultures. Changes began to occur. Now, some 55 years later, we can assess the impact that those tumultuous and necessary changes made on our country, our people, and our society.

Following the end of the Civil War, America began the process of reconstruction. This was the opportunity to bring industrialization, modernization, and fresh ideas to an area that was long entrenched in its societal traditions and norms. But what exactly were those long imprinted stereotypes and beliefs? How could they have perpetuated for as long a period as they were? These questions are at the very core of our nation’s issues today.

Before we explore the causes, beliefs, and ingrained racism of the antebellum south, we must understand some definitions that surround this culture of thought.

RACISM — Webster’s Dictionary defines racism as follows: “a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race.”

BIAS — a: “an inclination of temperament or outlook; especially: a personal and sometimes unreasoned judgment: PREJUDICE.

b: “an instance of such prejudice.

PREJUDICE — a: (1): preconceived judgment or opinion. (2): an adverse opinion or leaning formed without just grounds or before sufficient knowledge.

b: an instance of such judgment or opinion.

c: an irrational attitude of hostility directed against an individual, a group, a race, or their supposed characteristics.

I would like to call your attention to the fact that this set of terms is not exclusive to any one group or demographic. Anyone can be guilty of the above attitudes. Race does not exempt anyone from bias, prejudice, or racism.

So, how then as intelligent, well-intentioned human beings, do we end/negate the impact of these beliefs? My opinion is simple. We must examine ourselves, individually, and determine why and where these thoughts and attitudes derive.

Over the course of the next several articles, we will examine the cause and effect of “woke” culture on society. The purpose of this will be to demonstrate how supplanting one form of racism for another is of no avail and that we must seek more honest and sincere dialogue to curb the growing trend in our nation to demonize and vilify any culture, race, or creed.