WHAT Would You Do?
I saw this post and looked at the video because I thought the title was interesting. This apparently, is a series of videos with actors that depict situations and people's reactions are filmed. Not any different than any 'caught on camera' type show, but when I saw this, it really made me wonder what I would do in this situation.
I think in hindsight, I can blog about what I would do in this situation, but if I were to be completely honest, I am not certain I would do the 'right' thing. I could feel the tension in the room as I watched this. I would be interested to receive feedback from people on this video. Although this one in particular focuses on interracial relationships and racism, the underlying theme isn't any different than what we encountered as children. Peer pressure and sticking your neck out or going against the grain, in a room full of your peers that appear to disagree. Racism is always an issue, whether it's in our face or not, and has seemed to be heightened lately. So, this seems an appropriate discussion...Leave me your thoughts!
After watching the video, here are my honest thoughts….
ReplyDeleteIt’s difficult to predict the actions that one would take in a racially charged situation. I presume I would toggle somewhere between all of the participants. I know what it’s like to be the “silent bystander”, the “outspoken patron”, the “disgusted client” and even “the girlfriend”. My replies usually depend on my mood and how much energy I’m willing to give the situation. I also hold the belief that I don’t have to take every slur or racial jab as an invite to gear up for battle. Let’s be honest, there are some individuals who will continue to hold fast in their uneducated beliefs no matter how much dialogue takes place. A person has to be open to change and be willing to embrace a new set of ideals. I don’t think any particular response was “right” or “wrong”. Each person did what was comfortable for them during that moment. I choose to reserve the right to do the same.
Interesting…the customers who spoke up did so respectfully and with courage. We must use our voices to share our truth and shine our light, that is our responsibly if we are to be a beneficial presences on the planet. Racism is not ever an acceptable behavior for anyone, ever. Have WE learned NOTHING from our PAST ? There would have been NO way I would have tolerate the attack and disrespect on the woman in my presence. My grandmother taught me that " If you stand for nothing, you will fall for anything ".
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