Racism and discrimination have plagued our society for a long, long time. However, with the advent of digital news and social media, it becomes news now far more often than in years gone by. From police brutality protests to racism against Asian Americans, we have seen everything flash on our TV and mobile screens.
The George Floyd Saga
One of the biggest and most recent events that shook the media and social fabric alike was the murder of George Floyd (An African American man) murdered by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. The death related to racism and discrimination led to nationwide protests to end police brutality towards any specific race. The trial of Chauvin, which concluded in April 2021, also garnered significant media attention, and his conviction on all counts was seen as a step towards justice for Floyd’s family and the broader community.
The Race Card
Systemic racial discrimination continued deep into the 21st Century when the heat was brought against Asians in the U.S.A. for spreading Covid-19 globally. The recent shootings in Atlanta, Georgia, where eight people, including six Asian women, were killed, have highlighted the urgency of addressing these issues and combating the hate and bigotry that fuel them.
The Root Cause
However, it is important to remember that fixing isolated cases will get us nowhere as s community. The root cause lies in the systematic targeting of a specific race which leads to the housing market, job market, and, not limited to, healthcare. To truly progress toward a more just and equitable world, we must all do our part to challenge and dismantle these systems of oppression.
Final Word
In a world that is highly stable and non-tolerable, we can be patient and support a truly diverse culture around us. However, racism and discrimination are ongoing issues affecting individuals and communities worldwide. By staying informed and engaged, we can work together to address these issues and create a more just and equitable society for all.
By Dr. Jean D. Francis, Ph.D.
Author, Naked Truth
