How Do I Stop Racism in School

Hi there, this is the 1st time I have ever spoke to someone about racism. I’m Chinese and is in a school in the UK. I’m currently in year 10.

During my school years, I have experienced a lot of rude and hurtful racism comments. Most common ones were obviously chinky, ching chong, karate kick (hiyaaaaaaaaah, u know jackie chan, is jackie chan your uncle , u sell DVD and think any Chinese people in the school as your relative!! The worse one I have heard would have to be, Taiwan prostitute!!

Every time these comments are made, I just walk away, totally put a brave face and pretend nothing has been said. But inside, it makes me sad and completely shock at what has been said. And sometimes, I even laughed it off. I wish I could defend myself, stand up for myself, be a stronger person, and protect myself. But I’m scared. Please could you help me. How can I stop this. And I hope, when I go to college the racism wont get worse!!!

-Jolin

Dear Jolin,

Thanks for writing in about this and my heart really goes out to you. One thing that I find strange is how it is so politically incorrect to say anything racist to black people and other groups, but it seems like the Asian cultures are fair game. This is really irritating to me and it’s not fair. All races deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

I think this is partly because there hasn’t been many Chinese who have stood up against this behavior. It may be a cultural thing, I’m not sure, but the Chinese have, perhaps, been a little passive when it comes to issues of equity and respect. Unfortunately, even though it’s 2011 many people still think it’s ok to make fun of the Chinese and make racist comments.

Here’s the tough part. If you want things to change for yourself and for the generations that come after you, then you and your Chinese friends have to take a stand. You have to be willing to stick your neck out like many who have campaigned for human rights. Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, and Nelson Mandela all had to stand up and oppose the way they were being treated so that it would change. You have to do the same.

When you are racially slandered you have to start making a stink about it. Report it to your school administration and/or officials. Raise awareness about the problem and cause people to start thinking about such racist behavior.  I know you don’t want to be a snitch and all, but if you don’t start making sure people are held accountable for their bad behavior, it will never change. You need to unite the other Chinese and Asian kids in your school because individually you are week, but together you are strong!

I know you can do it and someone needs to. This racism has to be stopped for the good of everyone. Don’t settle for anything less than to be treated with the respect that all human beings deserve despite their race, gender, sexuality, or disabilities.

Kindest regards,

Ted