Mon, 07 Aug 2006

Race

Race is probably, along with religion, one of the more delicate topics to discuss as an aspect of answering the question, "What are you?". In fact, I think it will probably take me more than a single blog to discuss the issue. This is primarily because I don't think much about race. I certainly don't identify myself as an old white guy -- which I am.

I grew up in a military family and was around people of all races so much that I didn't even know what prejudice was until high school -- and then only because we studied it. My parents welcomed people of all races equally into their home as friends. I never even thought that someone's color was a meaningful measure of them as individuals. I still don't. So this subject is a bit foreign to me.

Many people will say that I don't think of myself as an old white guy because I don't have to. I live in the U.S.A. and am of the predominent race. Therefore I don't face the same barriers and prejudice that others face daily. Perhaps it is this constant exposure to race that helps people think of themselves primarily as defined by the color of their skin.

Race, for me, is not an important component of my identity. Perhaps it should be more of one, but if you think I'm having some trouble identifying with that concept -- you're right. I think that this aspect of identity will require more thought and investigation on my part. It will definitely require more writing.

I wonder of people are more likely to identify with a particular race or ethnic identity if they are asked the question by someone of another race or ethnic background? Would a white male be less likely to mention race if asked by a person of color, than the converse? Do we tend to think of race when we are confronted by someone of a different skin color or ethnic background than when we are approached by someone of our own race.

I think I could get into a lot of trouble discussing this topic. Much better minds than I have considered the topic and continue to do so. Simply being a white guy and bringing up the topic can be considered bad taste by some people. Yet, here it is, because it is a component of our identity and an answer to the question, What are you?

posted 18:17 [/WhatAreYou] permanent link