Imagine you are in a classroom simply trying to do your work. Then, you are interrupted by other students; stunned by them mocking the color of your skin. As you listen, you hear them call you several prejudiced phrases.
The people around you laugh so you do the same to fit in. However, deep down you stop for a moment and think; are they joking, or is this actually racism? Either way, the backhanded, racist remarks need to stop.
Racism is a disgusting trend that has spread into the minds of students at UACHS. At the end of the day, it all comes down to discrimination. From inappropriate hair touching to calling each other derogatory terms; remarks such as monkey, slave, and bomber start to become popular amongst the school. Eventually, it becomes a darkness that many view as funny but is actually harmful.
Throughout the building, racism has mainly been disguised with humor. Most times,
people are completely unaware that they have crossed a line. In turn, it has made more students and staff uncomfortable. Somedays, you can not even walk down the hall without hearing or seeing someone doing despicable things. UACHS Senior, David Washington is a keen witness and victim of UACHS’ racial bullying.
“A student was pretending to be a slave master whipping someone,” said Washington. “Yelling a bunch of derogatory terms and laughing it off; I was really uncomfortable.”
While plenty of people continue to laugh at this questionable behavior, the racism at UACHS continues to linger. With the fear of not being heard or making the tormenting worse, many students have not stood up for themselves. However, UACHS is trying their best to combat that. Counselor Jennifer Carlson and Vice Principal Michele Bruce are members of the harassment, intimidation and bullying organization (HIB) which is used to help provide the resources and safe place for those who are experiencing any form of bullying. Most importantly, to allow those who are bullying to face the consequences.
Next time you want to spit out a joke about your friend, think about if it is really funny—Even if it is by “your own people.”
