Stereotyping

I am involved with a leadership program on campus, and every Thursday we have "labs" where we discuss leadership traits and how to enhance our leadership abilities. Yesterday had to have been on of the more eye-opening labs we have done thus far. It was titled: "The Game of Life"

We were given an random identity of which we had no insight into. Identity factors such as race, physical appearance, income-level, gender, state of health, and physical disability were unknown to us. The name tag worn carried symbols that the "mentors" only knew. Our job was to go through life and do things like get a degree, a car, a job, a living space, get married, etc. My life was not the easiest. I was denied a car, a job, and I couldn't find a spouse. I tried my luck with practically every single person in the room. The judge at the marriage booth said that no one would be able to take care of me. So I had money and a degree, but was still treated so poorly by people all around me.

It turns out I was a handicapped, middle-income, attractive woman. The entire exercise was obviously over-dramatic and exaggerated, but the purpose was certainly understood: We pass judgements on people's ability and personality without even getting to know them.

Sterotyping...it's everywhere.
And it is so accepted in our culture. We grow up watching movies and reading books that engrain stereotypes into our mind so that it's nearly impossible to forget what we already assume about a person.

As much as I'd like to admit that I don't stereotype - I am as guilty as anyone. I unconsciously label people before I even know their name. This is not to say that I instantly dislike certain people, but let's be honest, certain ideas about certain people naturally come to mind at first glance.

That is exactly what needs to change. How can we go through life making assumptions about people we know nothing about? It's not fair. Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to express their character without speculation that they are, or should be a certain way.

It's time for our generation to stop this. It is a sickening idea to think about how we simply throw people into categories before taking the time to know or understand them. There needs to be a shift in our initial reaction of others. We need to recognize their strengths and appreciate what they have to offer. Without acceptance, what will our world become? A hateful, judgmental, and frightening place to live.

So everyone (all 2 of you who follow my blog), the next time you meet someone new, do your best to set aside all judgements, and really try to see the good in them...they might just surprise you.

Love always,

Taylor Anne