A STRONG AND PROUD BROWN GIRL

Those who haven’t experienced racism cannot and will never understand the deep rooted psychological issues experienced by the victim. One must applaud the growing collective consciousness on the subject but let us not fool ourselves that we entirely understand the gravity of the issue. I dedicate this to my father who faced years and years of racial discrimination, leaving him an angry man, disappointed with the society. But it takes a strong heart to power through and heart of steel he had, building his life despite the insults, despite the taunting, despite the cruel comments from the proud and arrogant, ‘fair’ skinned obsessed society. He raised two confident brown children, who give two hoots about ‘colour’.

Children, we say are the most innocent and fair human beings, but it is utterly sad to see the first seeds of racism being sown in schools; in fact right from your kindergarten. ‘Blacky’ called Ranjit from the audience when I presented my very first play (written and directed) in school. While that incident is unforgettable, I was never agitated but only pitied the boy and questioned his upbringing. The education system is to be blamed equally and it needs to take a zero tolerance approach on racism even when it stems from a teacher, let me correct myself especially when it stems from a teacher.

Dear parents, teachers and mentors, teach our children to respect individuals irrespective of colour, religion, race and gender. Teach them to be confident without having to put others down. Teach them to accept theirs’ and others’ flaws. Teach them to be perspective. Finally, teach them to be strong but not by feeding on the weak.  It is in your hands to raise our children as compassionate and sensitive human beings.

As for me, it never mattered whether I was buck teeth blacky or a roasted brinjal because I had a father who made me an independent, strong and a proud brown girl.
The author, Amrutha Raman is a Senior PR consultant at Aim High Consulting.

Click here to read more about Amrutha

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Wonder Women World.

One comment

  • K.R.Raman
    January 13, 2018

    12:50 PM

    Hard hitting article on racists who have no sensitivity on fellow human beings. I am deeply moved. God bless you. You have proved your Worthy ness on many occasions. I am very proud of you my child.