As a fresh-person at Mount Holyoke College, my first learning experience was the international student orientation, which provided valuable information about academic life, cultural nuances, and the lifestyle of New England.
???Inclusive Education Matters: One segment was particularly disconcerting. We were shown an educational video on the American history of slavery, racism, and white supremacy. It was a stark reality check that the land of opportunity I wanted to thrive in had its deep, dark shadows. As an outsider, I grappled with the responsibility of understanding this complex legacy and acting accordingly without any training or tools.
???The Unequal Burden of Awareness:?In the large group discussions that followed, I listened to the insights of my fellow international students. Many of us were people of color, more likely to be subject to racism than to perpetrate it. When it was my turn to speak, I asked about the American students’ orientation that would happen afterwards. Would they also explore racism in their country? The answer was a hushed “no”.
I realized then what I would come to know intimately over the next 15+ years of living in America: Those likely to be harmed, or have already been harmed, by racism carry the weight of its awareness and presence.
???Continuing the Journey: ?Over the years, as I studied, worked, and lived in America at elite schools, high-ranking workplaces and corridors of corporate power and influence, I noticed the lack of representation from Americans of African origin. Their exclusion was resounding to those like me who were looking for them, evidencing a cycle where generational wealth remains elusive to this most tortured group of peoples.
As I taught myself more about black history in America, I came to be in awe of them. They have time and time again, as slaves and then as free peoples, contributed to the greatness of this nation. However, time and time again they have been excluded from reaping the just rewards.
On the eve of this Juneteenth, I commit to ongoing learning. In addition to re-visiting some of my favorite fiction by black authors, I will also be listening to the Reveal podcast’s 3-part series on reparations.
Join me in this journey. Let’s raise awareness, challenge norms, and build a more equitable future. Its long overdue. ????