The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

What memory do you have of an incident when you experienced bias, prejudice, and/or oppression, or witnessed someone else as the target of bias, prejudice, and/or oppression? Keep in mind that one can encounter such incidents in real contexts, including online environments, as well as in fictional ones, such as movies, books, television shows, and the like.



Again, this class is so timely. In such a time now where bias, prejudice and oppression is now becoming more evident than it has in some time now; there are lot of actions that are taking place that are just plain unjustified. Over the past couple of months I, we have witnessed a number of murders of unarmed black men shot and killed by police officers. It really is sad that people are considered a threat or dangerous simply because of the color of their skin. And to think it is coming from those who are suppose to protect and serve.




In what way(s) did the specific bias, prejudice and/or oppression in that incident diminish equity?
What feelings did this incident bring up for you?

These incidents brings up past hurts, pains, unresolved issues that the history of United States was built on, made up of such as slavery, discrimination, prejudice and racism. When these incidents occur it has us thinking, "Has anything really changed?" and the truth something things have and some things remain the same. 
  

What and/or who would have to change in order to turn this incident into an opportunity for greater equity?

This is such a tricky question because not all white people are racist and I can't say to stay away from them or even hate all police. I would have to say to be realistic black people will probably never be treated %100 equal. There will always be someone or something that has it out for us or even black for whites because of our history. What does need to happen is a real talk and resolve about issues concerning race. Police officers are being sent on paid leaves for murdering people for not other reason other than the color of their skin. If these things keep happening and the system keeps siding with police then it could be the beginning of a war. We have to begin to hold people accountable for their wrongdoings and stand up for the oppressed, the ones who don't have a voice. We all have to have the same goal in mind: unity and equality.