Segregation will end when racial walls fall
by Sherri Jones, reporter

    The word segregation reminds me of the 1960s before many of us were born, when whites and blacks used separate water fountains and bus seats. Fortunately for all, forced segregation of this nature has been outlawed. However, a glance around the halls or cafeterias during lunch may suggest that young people today still divide themselves along racial lines.

    I consider this segregation a tragedy that robs us all of a more rewarding life by destroying the opportunity for a rich and varied cultural experience. By isolating ourselves from other races, we limit ourselves to a narrower and more homogenous perspective on life. America is, and has always been, a land of many different types of people: different races, backgrounds and interests. Each person and each race can tell a unique story, and all our voices collectively comprise America and all its glory.

    Some may wonder, “If all races are unique and important in society, then why do they so rarely interact?” I can think of two reasons, both of which are explanations and not acceptable excuses.

    First, people feel most comfortable with others like themselves, whether athletes, actors or the same race.

    I notice groups of people who bond closely through a common activity of interest. Football players, choir members and honor students tend to become friends because each member of the group shares some intellectual or emotional bond with the others in the group.

    Likewise, those of identical races, whether Caucasian, African-American, Hispanic or Asian, often form close friendships among their race because they share a common bond: their race and cultural background. Identification with one’s heritage can provide a powerful sense of pride and belonging.

    Second, although this philosophy limits one’s perspective, many continue to segregate themselves because people fear change. No matter how badly they want to reach out to another race and escape the trap of racial isolationism, they may hesitate to break out of any group to which they belong.

    After growing up with and getting to know many people of one’s own race, one begins to feel comfortable with that group and reluctant or even afraid to seek the company of any other. The group has become a racial clique, formed not by snobbery or dislike for other races, but by the comfort of the friends already made among one’s own race.

    Racism, racial hatred and racial violence exist in this imperfect world, but I do not believe these social tragedies are responsible for the racial segregation among our students. If we segregate ourselves, we do it because we feel comfortable with the people who are most like us and the people with whom we have grown up and formed close relationships.

    I don’t know how to end segregation completely. But to fight it, we must fight the causes by appreciating the differences between the races rather than fearing them.

    People of all races offer valuable contributions to our society. Only by celebrating all aspects of our cultural heritage can we break down these racial walls and become a true melting pot of equality rather than a salad with separate and isolated parts.