How do we have the Racism talk???

RMulticultural Talks and Racism: Importance of Conversations with Young People

Racism has been a dirty part of the human evolution. Unfortunately, it has resulted in immense suffering for the oppressed community. However, with the cultural evolution and generational changes, it is but crucial to talk to young children about different cultures and races. Luckily, many societies feel strongly about racism and believe that all human beings should receive the same treatment irrespective of race, gender, ethnicity, and ability. In support of this belief to become anti-racist, many adults switch to a color-blind approach to race. The subject has become so controversial that adults do not want to talk about racism. However, the importance of conversation on multicultural and racism topics cannot be stressed enough.

The Need for Conversations on Racism

Studies find that there is so much of taboo surrounding the word racism that even parents tend to avoid talking on the subject with their young children. A study observed that while reading a storybook on race relations and racial prejudice, parents tended to avoid mentioning “race” despite the subject being the theme while talking to their young kids.

But does ignoring the topic do any good? Does that erase the racial aspect from the minds of young children?

Well, ignoring race does not do any good. Young children are also aware of race despite being kept aloof on these matters. Sadly, this type of approach may make young children even more curious on the subject of racism. They may not hesitate to ask questions about racial differences to gain a better understanding of things.

So the right approach is to discuss the subject of racism with young minds to give them a better understanding of social norms. Children who have grown up discussing the subject with their elders tend to show a colorblind behavior after 10 years of age. Luckily, they start to avoid using race for targeting the oppressed classes.

Does taking a colorblind approach solve all the problems with regard to race?

Of course, not. It is not the best way to show your anti-racial side. Even such young minds ted to find situations where they find talking about race uncomfortable and unpleasant. In order to promote racial prejudice and reduce the instances of racial discrimination, it is essential to embrace our racial differences. Ignoring the subject is not the right solution to the problem of racial inequality.

It would help to fully recognize multiculturalism in society. Talks and discussions on multi-culturism and racism are more likely to play a positive role in influencing young minds to identify the acts of racial discrimination.

Through discussions and talks on the sensitive subject of racism and diversity, you can inculcate a multicultural approach in young minds. After all, it is better to adopt a multicultural approach than being colorblind.

It would help to avoid discussing concerns about race. Rather, emphasizing the importance of racial diversity. Such successful interactions with young people from different races and cultures can bring about a huge difference in the way things are seen.

Talking with young kids about the different cultures and races instead of brushing aside their questions about race could open up their minds to positivity. Further, such conversations could increase their comfort during interactions with people from other cultures, races, and ethnicities.

Embrace and celebrate the cultural, racial, and ethnic differences that make each individual unique to make the world a better place to live in.

With the society becoming increasingly diverse, children must be prepared to appreciate and value multicultural diversity in a positive light. Let’s open their minds about racism and prepare them for the future.