Race in the United States is inextricably linked to the concept of whiteness. The idea of white supremacy has long been used to discriminate against Native Americans and people of color. What began as a notion has evolved into deeply ingrained issues of bloodline (as seen in the "one-drop rule") and politics. Historically, European Americans have wielded political power to create laws that favor their interests at the expense of other races. Although the white race is often privileged, this does not mean that all white individuals are exempt from hardship or the need for hard work.
Over time, the stereotype of white superiority has been used to segregate minoritized groups and shape both domestic and foreign policies. This systemic discrimination has denied other races opportunities for advancement in all areas of life. The concept of nativism, which aims to protect a nation's values, culture, and identity, is complicated in the American context. Here, the term "native" does not refer to the indigenous peoples but rather to those of European descent. The land and political power of the Native Americans were taken due to their race, and the white way of life replaced and has since been protected from external influences.
Although race is not a daily topic of conversation, it remains a pervasive issue. Even when racial groups stay silent on the subject, race continues to influence society. It is only when mass movements like Black Lives Matter arise and sweep across the nation that racial tensions come to the forefront. During such times, discriminated racial groups fear further marginalization, while the "superior" race fears retaliation. As governments, organizations, and institutions work to bridge racial differences through diversity initiatives, the concept of reverse discrimination also becomes a topic of debate.
America is a great nation, but race has hindered its full potential. The idea of "separate but equal" has left many citizens feeling alienated. Yet, minoritized racial groups often come together in times of adversity to demonstrate their solidarity and the American spirit of unity. For example, the discrimination faced by Japanese Americans following the Pearl Harbor attack led to the formation of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which defended America regardless of race.
My race gives me identity, and I am proud of it. It affords me certain privileges as I belong to a major racial group in our nation, but it does not protect me from discrimination. Islamophobia is something I regularly encounter at school and work. I often avoid discussions related to my race to prevent conflict, choosing silence even though it hinders me from expressing my views. People from other races, particularly white individuals, tend to avoid me due to stereotypes linking my background to terrorism. As an international student from an Islamic state, I am frequently subjected to the stereotype that all Muslims are terrorists, which is far from the truth. My ethnic heritage shapes my life, dictating whom I date, the jobs I pursue, and my social circles.
The most striking aspect of this chapter is how deeply rooted these issues are. For instance, the widening income disparity is reinforced by historical racial systems that continue to operate, perpetuating privilege for white people. It is seen as normal for a white person to lead a major company, but when someone from a minoritized group rises to a similar position, they are often seen as a representative of their race. For example, when Kamala Harris is mentioned, the focus is often on her identity as an Asian American woman, rather than simply as an American with the same rights and opportunities as anyone else. The race she comes from does not inherently favor her or her community. For individuals from underprivileged groups to succeed, diversity must be actively promoted in all areas of society.
Over time, the stereotype of white superiority has been used to segregate minoritized groups and shape both domestic and foreign policies. This systemic discrimination has denied other races opportunities for advancement in all areas of life. The concept of nativism, which aims to protect a nation's values, culture, and identity, is complicated in the American context. Here, the term "native" does not refer to the indigenous peoples but rather to those of European descent. The land and political power of the Native Americans were taken due to their race, and the white way of life replaced and has since been protected from external influences.
Although race is not a daily topic of conversation, it remains a pervasive issue. Even when racial groups stay silent on the subject, race continues to influence society. It is only when mass movements like Black Lives Matter arise and sweep across the nation that racial tensions come to the forefront. During such times, discriminated racial groups fear further marginalization, while the "superior" race fears retaliation. As governments, organizations, and institutions work to bridge racial differences through diversity initiatives, the concept of reverse discrimination also becomes a topic of debate.
America is a great nation, but race has hindered its full potential. The idea of "separate but equal" has left many citizens feeling alienated. Yet, minoritized racial groups often come together in times of adversity to demonstrate their solidarity and the American spirit of unity. For example, the discrimination faced by Japanese Americans following the Pearl Harbor attack led to the formation of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which defended America regardless of race.
My race gives me identity, and I am proud of it. It affords me certain privileges as I belong to a major racial group in our nation, but it does not protect me from discrimination. Islamophobia is something I regularly encounter at school and work. I often avoid discussions related to my race to prevent conflict, choosing silence even though it hinders me from expressing my views. People from other races, particularly white individuals, tend to avoid me due to stereotypes linking my background to terrorism. As an international student from an Islamic state, I am frequently subjected to the stereotype that all Muslims are terrorists, which is far from the truth. My ethnic heritage shapes my life, dictating whom I date, the jobs I pursue, and my social circles.
The most striking aspect of this chapter is how deeply rooted these issues are. For instance, the widening income disparity is reinforced by historical racial systems that continue to operate, perpetuating privilege for white people. It is seen as normal for a white person to lead a major company, but when someone from a minoritized group rises to a similar position, they are often seen as a representative of their race. For example, when Kamala Harris is mentioned, the focus is often on her identity as an Asian American woman, rather than simply as an American with the same rights and opportunities as anyone else. The race she comes from does not inherently favor her or her community. For individuals from underprivileged groups to succeed, diversity must be actively promoted in all areas of society.
