This is a first in a series of columns from members of the Niagara Falls Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee.
Earlier this month, an Elimination of Racism Day was held at the MacBain Community Centre, inspired by the United Nation’s official day.
The event was to share the youth view of racism and how it has affected their lives. There was dancing, music and art performances. After participating in the event, I was inspired by the number of people who dedicated their time and efforts to promote the elimination of racism and to spread awareness through the different mediums they chose.
A conversation cafe was held by students from Bock University and many stories were shared.
Racism is an important issue and affects everyone from different backgrounds and ethnicity.
Many do not even think what they are voicing is considered racist or may discriminate against another religion, ethnicity or group.
Many slang words or common phrases may be racist, where in popular media, music and other sources, teenagers and the general community may believe that it is normal or accepted to discriminate.
Racism ruins the society we live in, as it prevents members of the community from interacting and becoming friends.
It also causes people from other races and backgrounds to feel they are not accepted, This is unacceptable because everyone deserves to be included in our society and not be discriminated against.
Another common reason why racism is still an issue is because parents and adults may be promoting or showcasing racism as an acceptable practice.
Children do not understand racism. A white child won’t shun a black child just because of their skin color. Many children of difference ethnicity and religions do not understand the difference and see everyone as the same, someone who can play with them.
This is a great way to think, but it is often destroyed by adult influences on the child or some media that promotes racism.
Though racism is still an issue, today’s youth are learning to accept other religions. This is especially the case in Canada because our country is a multicultural country. The positive influence of distinct foods from a variety of countries to the sports and lifestyle brought here through immigration, show the importance of diversity and how being diverse should be appreciated by all.
George Liu is a Grade 11 student at Westlane Secondary School and is a member of the Niagara Falls Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee.
