THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, February 23, 1996 TAG: 9602230116
SECTION: DAILY BREAK PAGE: E1 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: Sherell Wilson, Bayside High School,
LENGTH: Medium: 52 lines
Winner: Sherell Wilson, Bayside High School, Virginia Beach
In the year 2025, race relations will continue as they are today. No matter how far we have advanced in technology and education, racism will continue to thrive in America.
People feel we have come far in the fight against ignorance. And as a whole we have - black people and other minorities have come far.
But too many obstacles exist. Too many people still ignore the problems and racial tension.
When I lived in Maine, a predominately white state, I encountered all kinds of racism. My sister and I were the only two black students in a school of 200.
I heard the ``N word'' a lot, and I always wanted to fight. But you can't fight everyone every day.
I found myself trying to get good grades, excelling in extracurricular activities and educating everyone who asked about my culture. I tried to rise above all the stereotypes and show these people I was a human being just like them.
I soon realized that it was not these teenagers' fault for their misjudgments of me. For they were kids and the product of their environment. They bought into the stereotypes on TV and other mass media. Their parents did not take the time to explain about different nationalities and ethnic groups.
In three years of living in that state, I never understood all of their hatred, and they never understood my frustration. I couldn't reach some of those kids, and they never did like me. But they did respect me, for I demanded it.
Race will always be an issue, and nothing will change in 2025.
Unless parents take a part in their children's lives and teach them about the different people and cultures in this world, and let them know that there is nothing wrong with these differences, and they're what make us special and individual.
If parents do not take this responsibility, things will remain the same. And if you're not finding a solution, you're part of the problem. ILLUSTRATION: Color Photo by Steve Earley
Sherell Wilson
KEYWORDS: BLACK HISTORY MONTH ESSAY CONTEST by CNB