I was raised in WV which is 95% Caucasian . I had one African American classmate in the eighth grade and no more until I went to college. Yes I was exposed to prejudice toward blacks and Jews growing up but never understood it. In fact I grew to hate it.
Many years latter I figured out the root cause of the prejudice was more economic than anything else. If only a few jobs exist than people will fight for those few jobs to provide for their families even if it meant perpetuating myths and stereotypes.
Having learned not to hate I learned not to fear. Many years latter I settled in the city of Vallejo CA which is a diverse a population as you will ever find. I often see African Americans walking in my city wearing winter coats on 80 degree days. I assume they are cold. When I see a young man in a Hoodie I assume he is cold and nothing else.
What do you see??
A Voice In the Wilderness
