Racism.

Racism is the belief in the superiority of one race over another. It is commonly seen in the language people use towards one another. People who commit acts of racism hurt people and it reflects how low racist people will go. Students may even commit acts of racism in school. And I know some students at WHS who have.

At Westborough High, I personally have noticed racism, stereotyping, and profiling. For example, a well known word some people use that is offensive language is the “n” word. Sadly, most people don’t even know what it means or the history behind the word. The word is very offensive to people of color and it is used to degrade them. And even if it is not meant to be offensive, the word still has the same meaning.

I have been called the “n” word and I know many other people who have also been called it. Even if the person doesn’t show that it hurt them, it most definitely does.

In friend groups, someone can say other offensive words and phrases as well. For example, I have heard people make fun of Asian people for having tiny eyes. I personally have been made fun of as well because of my eyes and it was by a close friend. I didn’t know what to say to the comment so I laughed; it wasn’t funny, but I didn’t know what else to do.

When someone is being told they don’t belong because of who they are or because of something they can’t change about themselves, it is going to tear them down and make them feel horrible about themselves. I don’t know why anyone would want to ruin someone’s day and maybe life because they are judging someone based on their race or ethnicity. Everyone is human, so why look at anyone differently just because they may have darker skin than you or smaller eyes or even because they eat different ethnic food than you.

Students and people in general need to recognize what they can and can’t say and what is appropriate. It should be known not to make fun or be offensive to people because of their skin color or where they are from.

Younger people tend to act before thinking and not think of how the person may feel about what they are saying. If you looked back, have you ever been racist or stereotyped someone? If so, think of how it would make you feel if someone did this to you. Think of how you can change going forward. What will you do next time you witness it?

Remember other people’s emotions are as important as yours so don’t just walk away–stay and say something to help someone feel good about themselves. And the most important thing to remember is that we are all humans no matter what–and that is one thing that should bring everyone together not tear everyone apart.