Since switching from a degree in chemistry to one in social work (yes, this is now my major and yes, I know their salary), I have learned a great deal in the classes that I need for my major. In one particular class, SW 400, entitled Human Diversity and Social Work Practice, I had to write many essays about human diversity, my own self-reflections, and just some really deep stuff, a lot of stuff that I tended not to think about on a daily basis before. It was extremely eye-opening, and I dealt with a lot of emotions that I had never had to deal with.
So, before this goes any further, I just want to say that this was an extremely impulsive post to write, but I think it must be done. I have heard far too many stories and witnessed far too many things to just stay quiet. It increasingly gets harder to keep these things in. Too many people I love (all people) are hurt. It's not a time to yell and fight and argue. I don't want to get smart or sassy, I just want someone to listen, to understand, to hear me out.
To start off, I am a young white woman. Argue if you'd like, but there is such a thing as white privilege. There are stereotypes, there are micro-aggressions, and these are all very hurtful things! If you don't believe me, I'll give you some examples:
- I don't have to worry about people yelling things at me about "Trump," anything about immigration, or my heritage. You don't just hear people talking about "all those English people that came over and settled this country some 300 years ago."
- I don't have to wonder if I'll be harassed by an officer every time I'm pulled over, I usually know I will be treated with respect. They won't ask me "if I speak English" or look at me like I'm some type of criminal.
- If I go shopping people won't keep a close eye on me and wait until I'm out of the store to take a deep breath.
Okay, so you might say I myself have never experienced these things, so how would I even know they happen? Or, well aren't you exaggerating a little? So, I'll tell you how I know, people that I genuinely love and care about have experienced them, and I'm not exaggerating. I talk to them, and I try to understand how these things make them feel. I'm not "biased" towards minorities, I'm just not blind to how they are treated anymore.
I never wanted to believe that people would intentionally hurt or look down on other people just because they are different, whether it is race, gender, sexuality, age, religion, any kind of disability, etc. But unfortunately, when it happens right outside my front door, I have to believe it. And once I believe it, I can't just let it keep happening like the never-ending cycle it has been for so long. I want to put forth my small little effort, so that I know my voice is heard. I'm not accusing anyone that reads this. I'm not personally angry at anyone. I just wanted to be listened to, to be understood, so that maybe my kids and grandkids won't have to live in a world that is so mean. Maybe we could all be more understanding, more loving, more compassionate---
I know the only solution to this is Jesus. He has opened my heart to break mine for what breaks His. There is still so much work to be done on my insides, but I do know this--- His love is the only good and perfect thing this world has to offer, and we all need to pass around a lot more of it, to everyone, no matter what they look like, act like, believe in, or talk like.
Thanks for reading if you've gotten this far.
Join me in raising a voice to fight for every human being.
I love you all dearly.
Kristen
