America was based on the basic principles of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”. Our forefathers felt that America should be a place for opportunity; “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free...” are the words engraved on the foremost most significant symbol embodying the American dream. Although America is based on these ideals, I don’t believe there is enough tolerance for different races instilled into children at home; I propose that it become mandated that all students be involved in a class exemplifying and idealizing the many aspects of American culture, thusly engendering and reinforcing respect for differences of all kind—social, political, and ethical.
A forty minute period in a school day geared towards tolerance and respect may at first seem unnecessary, however I’ve seen first hand how desperately it is needed. I attend a predominantly Latino and Black high school, and the tension fueling gang related fights, and homicides are all race related. I think if students were given a better understanding of each others backgrounds, it would give them a lot of insight into the struggle each of them has, and hopefully they would realize that for the most part, the struggle each of them has is basically the same.
Hundreds of immigrants—both legally and illegally, come from other countries on a daily basis, pouring into this country in multitudes from their respective countries, avoiding political and social strife. They come here uneducated, and oftentimes without reverence to those who were here before them. Many fail to attempt to learn the language spoken in America out of lack of necessity, and become indolent in their way of life, as they’ve known it for many years. If when they reached America’s shores, they were taught the fundamental information about the country they now live in, they would most likely appreciate the values America was founded upon. Many immigrants coming from third world countries went to school in buildings with dirt floors, if they went to school at all. They come here to this country, and spit on the floor without reserve or caution; they don’t realize that what they’ve done is seen as disrespectful and unsanitary to many around them, and take offense when this is brought to their attention—sometimes not in the best way.
An understanding of the cultures, values, and traditions of both races would actively work to combat the negative stereotyping and general ignorance that occurs in my community. Educating the members of these two racial groups while they are young and are receptive to change, will implement new thinking, and hopefully bring about more peaceful and collaborative efforts.
