Racism Beyond Skin Color: A Personal Journey

In today's discussions about racism, it's common to assert that one's failure to see people by their race, national origin, religion, or any other superficial characteristic renders them incapable of being a racist. While this perspective is often repeated, it lacks depth and nuance, leaving room for misunderstanding and misinterpretation.

My Experience with Racism and Sisterhood

One of the most profound experiences that shaped my perspective on racism occurred during my early professional days. I worked alongside a fellow named Francis who was known for her cruel treatment towards another black colleague, Ruthie. Francis was no ordinary coworker; she accused me of making a mistake when I stood up for Ruthie, arguing that we needed to fight 'skin for skin' and that Ruthie would turn on me due to our differing racial backgrounds. Yet, Ruthie, with a strong personality and without hesitation, put her arm around me and said, 'This is my sister.' This moment was a pivotal one in my understanding of what it truly means to see someone beyond their skin color.

Ruthie was a Jehovah's Witness, and our worldview was vastly different. Despite our differences, our bond transcended our skin colors and religious backgrounds, and we found common ground in our belief in something greater. This experience challenged my preconceived notions and made me realize that the deeper bonds we form with others are often rooted in shared values and experiences, rather than superficial characteristics like race.

Approximations and Perception of Others

Your question, 'If you do not see people by their race, national origin, or religion, are you a racist?' can be misleading and simplistically answered with an immediate no. This question often overlooks the complexity of human perceptions and interactions. It's important to recognize that people are indeed judged first on their intrinsic qualities, such as their personality, actions, and behaviors, not just their external characteristics.

Consider the example of someone who is perceived as ugly but is liked by everyone. Or a person who is overweight but has a great personality and is respected for it. These cases demonstrate that judgments are often based on what matters more than superficial characteristics. Similarly, many people who are labeled as 'racist' don't necessarily hold that viewpoint. Instead, they might have a different understanding and experience regarding race and diversity.

Recognizing Diversity Without Being Condemned

It's crucial to acknowledge that simply not recognizing someone's diversity doesn't make you a racist. In reality, many people's views on race are shaped by their unique experiences and personal backgrounds. For instance, a white person might not see race as a significant factor in judging a brown Mexican individual, simply because they don't abide by the liberal left's worldview. This doesn't mean they are racist; it means their perspective is different, and they evaluate people based on their merit and character rather than their skin color or cultural background.

Ultimately, the key to reducing racial prejudices lies in focusing on what unites us, such as our shared humanity, values, and goals. It's about recognizing that the world may not be as overtly racist as we perceive it to be, and that there are individuals within it who are not as advanced in appreciating diversity for what it is. These individuals, much like Francis, might need to grow and understand that going beyond our perceived differences can lead to more meaningful and inclusive relationships.

It's time to stop referring to people by their race, national origin, religion, or any other superficial characteristic. Instead, call them people, and you'll see that our world may not be as racist as we think, and it is a world where we can coexist and grow stronger by embracing our differences.