Ending Racism In About An Hour

I attended the diversity event called Ending Racism In About An Hour. The presenter was a comedian named W. Kamau Bell. I had heard of him before which was the main reason why I went to this presentation. The event definitely lived up to my expectations. Bell did a terrific job of mixing comedy with the points that he was trying to make. I personally think that comedy is the best medium for discussing issues that can be possibly uncomfortable for some people. Comedy helped Bell tear down some of the crowd's reservations which allowed for a more honest discussion on race and racism.

One of the main points Bell discussed was how racism has changed during this generation. It is no longer people out right discriminating against other races like it was during the civil rights movement. In today's society people think they are just being funny and innocent when in fact they are encouraging stereotypes and engaging in racist behavior. Another thing that has changed with this generation is that with all the technology and social media used by everyone, people are posting pictures of their racist actions.

Another thing Bell discussed is that white people need to own up to their actions. As a white person we should be proud of our heritage as well as own up to those of us that are ignorant of others. Bell said that many white people use excuses to separate themselves from other white people that have committed racist acts. Many use the excuse that they from a different racial group than the person who made the comment but in reality they are both white. We need to acknowledge when someone from our group does something ignorant and let the world know that we do not support or agree with their viewpoints.

Bell's discussion made me think about race in a more contemporary fashion. As technology and culture changes, so does racial discrimination. It is important that we recognize these changes and avoid discrimination