Whether we are talking about aboriginals or people whose ancestors were non-Caucasian from other continents, every race is unique. In the rural Prairies, contact may be limited with these races. A lack of understanding, ignorance or hatred may lead to racist jokes, prejudiced behavior and outright racism.
Sometimes people exhibit racist behavior but don’t realize it; only the people affected by the statements or actions feel the ugly physical or psychological scars that accompany racism.
People should not be judged by their color, their ancestry, their speech, their customs, language and religion.
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Canada is a land of immigrants, and yet we show a low tolerance at times.
We forget our own past.
Recently representatives from the media met in Saskatoon with the Saskatoon Multicultural Council to discuss racism and the way media portray various races. Following stereotypes, using inappropriate words, giving descriptions that may not be relevant to the story – these are all ways the media unintentionally perpetuate racism.
A video about racism led people to consider racism in other aspects of their lives – in hiring practices, in social contact, in how they greeted or did not greet strangers.
Journalists said some stories need to include mention of race. For example, if police are searching for a suspect, the color of the individual becomes part of the description. However, some argue this is unfair – everyone of that same color group will suddenly be suspect, and one color may cover many different races.
The press can sometimes plead ignorance. Journalists may not always realize that people don’t want to be called the first of their race to accomplish something, nor have their race be the centre of attention if something negative was done.
These people want to be referred to and treated as Canadians. It’s time for the media to be enlightened.
