One of the things I am much more cognizant of since taking a course on race is the concept of “justice.” In it we discussed the controversial critical race theory (CRT). It was a great course because it covered different perspectives and helped me connect the sequence of historical events. I would usually avoid discussions on race because I believe that one’s merit transcends social barriers. I do not agree with everything race theorists believe. But that does not mean they don’t provide valuable insights like other schools of thought give. Indeed, demography (race, class, education, sex, religion, etc.) played a major role in determining the destinies of individuals, groups, and the patterning of America.
The American fabric is either knitted neatly together of different backgrounds doing their own thing, or melted in a pot (mixed in). Having both choices is what makes America unique because it leaves room for immigrants to personally continue their tradition from their homeland, or the option to assimilate with their fellow Americans, as well as a little bit of both (tradition and assimilation). The cross-pollination of ideas and different cultures throughout history seemed inevitable. Hence, we, the human race are already a mixed bunch even if we don’t identify ourselves that way which is alright.
My final term project revolved around segregation in education in one specific school examined in the podcast: “Nice White Parents.” It was well worth it to understand structural racism at a micro-level and then using it to imagine it at the macro-level of society overall. The image that was constantly on my mind, and I found fitting to eventually use metaphorically, was of Lady Justice. She has three distinct features: a blindfold, the scales of justice, and a sword. She symbolizes someone who is unbiased and will swiftly–yet wisely use the weapons of justice. In a state of social disharmony or dissonance, man desires: freedom, fairness, equality, and justice.
Horace Mann, known as the father of American education, said that America and democracy cannot survive without public education. We need common schools where the rich and poor come together to solve problems and generate fellow feelings. Thus, public schools are the great equalizer. I’d argue that meritocracy has been woefully flawed and rightly smeared. Not because many don’t see the value in it or that it isn’t possible, but because in some parts of society like in its institutions–are not colorblind. They are not as fully blindfolded, if at all as they may claim to be in the way Lady Justice truly is. Often one’s or a powerful group’s self-interest will precede or override discrimination and cause harm to others. As a result, systemic barriers are constructed and this not only applies or is specifically to color. Change can also occur to remove them to tilt the scales of justice evenly and create balance. America has made great strides, yet still has a long way to go.
Social Scholarly 