Race

Ah, that scientifically devised divider....


This afternoon while riding the bus from Evergreen, a young Hispanic gentleman called Michael* began a conversation with me about race, and how the citizens of Olympia seem to ignore/overlook/don't mention it.


I must say, I think Michael was quite bold (not brash) to even broach the subject.  He recounted to me the story of an acquaintance of his who felt that "all Olympian were racist" because his particular experience was negative. And then he asked me about my experience within Olympia.


I told him that since I'd only been in Washington for approx. two weeks, I couldn't provide him with a full-bodied opinion, but that the individuals I had encountered seemed friendly and open enough.  I also told him that I had prepared myself, to an extent, for Olympia's racial climate.  The city is 80% Caucasian, and with that demographic comes a certain amount of compromise that a Black person might have to make.  One example would be others' expectations.  As a Black person, I'm constantly fighting against the stereotypes that the mainstream media broadcasts, be it music, news, television programmes, etc.  It's a disadvantage that every minority has to overcome, be they women, Hispanic, non-heterosexual, disabled etc.  I simply do my best to present myself as an intelligent, compassionate individual.  If the other party can't get over their prejudices, then that's their fault.


I expound on this particular point because Michael's friend (as he was described to me) was the epitome of the Black male stereotype: tall, dark-shinned, long dreadlocs, and Rastafarian to boot.  Whenever a person of this description is displayed within the media, it's usually in a very negative way.  That paired with the fact that he was alienated and frustrated in Olympia only furthered people's suspicions about him, which ultimately led to him leaving the city.


Another point that must be brought up is that since there is only a very small population of Black within Olympia, it only serves to misrepresent the population even further.  If there are no people to counter what the citizens consume via the media, the it's only reasonable to expect that their expectations will be highly skewered.  It's by no means fair, but every minority group has to endure it.


I think a person in the minority needs to be prepared for a few things: 


1) Expect static.  Humans are naturally afraid of what is different or "other".  We've all been in situations like this, whether in the position of the minority or the majority. Assholes are out there and you've just got to deal with it.


2) Don't get jaded.  It's easy to become frustrated and express one's discontent on those around them.  It's important to expect this and try to curb the negativity as much as possible. Stay positive.  For every one person who gives you a rough time, there are two people who can become your friend and advocate.  


3) Learn and grow.  The most important thing about these situations is to chalk it up to experience.  I've had some pretty bad slurs flung my way, but I can look back on those instances and say I'm more resolved to be tolerant and understanding towards others.  Breaking the cycle of negativity is one of the best (and hardest) things to do.


I wish that Michael's friend had had a different experience in Olympia, but hopefully one day he'll be able to reflect back on his time here and give it another try.  Racism is an issue that's going to persist for a very long time. The only way our society is ever going to overcome it is by breaking down our own prejudices and biases and addressing them head on.  It's a long, hard road ahead, but I think it can be done.


*Name change