Letter to the editor

Racism is a growing problem that affects lifestyles across the globe. This hatred of people is caused by fear. People are scared to accept what seems to be unacceptable, which leads to a division based on apprehension.

Living in the south, we experience racism all the time and see the division and judgment that has grown as a result. Racism has led to increased crime among different races.

An increase in crime has led to increased fear and opposition towards the other race. While some are being taught that racism is a way of life, others are racist due to a lack of hope for any future change. If we don't end this environment of fear and apathy, we will continue to live in a world of hostility and separation.

As young adults, we need to understand racism, evaluate our thoughts and behavior, and take on a leadership role to implement change. In order to solve a problem, you have to understand it. We recently had the opportunity to interview several Armstrong students and faculty and get their perspectives on racism.

We found that many agreed that racism was a growing problem and understood the desperate need for a solution to this problem. We wanted to evaluate why people believe that racism is problematic. During the interview, each person was asked to define his or her race and also list or explain any racial "slurs" or slang that were personally offensive.

If we want to avoid hostility, we need to be aware of and avoid any actions or words that are offensive to others. On a more personal level, we asked each individual to discuss an experience that involved racist behavior towards them.

It was interesting to see how quickly each person was able to recall an experience and give such detail, regardless of when it occurred. If racism was significantly declining, then people would probably struggle to recall such experiences. It became quite obvious that people may forgive, but they don't forget. What lasting impression or memory do we want to leave with another individual?

So, where do we go from here? As young adults, we can lead by example. We need to be a positive influence on our family and friends and avoid any controversial behavior. You have to live by example for people to believe in you and your words.

If we could learn to be leaders for our community, then we could help change the problem. If this racial divide is based on fear and apprehension, then as college students, we need to take advantage of opportunities to learn more about each other by taking a course that involves the study of another culture or race.

The diversity of the Armstrong student body allows us to interact with people of a different race and build relationships based on common interests, which would ultimately decrease the racial hostility and separation.

The problem is defined and evident but can't be conquered without leadership. Who will make the first move to change this way of life and help create a positive environment without racism for the younger generation?