Tuesday, 4 September 2018

How To Enhance Race Relations

By Virginia King


It is almost impossible to discuss race with evoking negative emotions. This storm has led to broken relationships and inability to work in some circumstances. Violence and conflicts in different parts of the world have also been attributed to poor race relations. This leaves every individual and organization with the responsibility of building stronger bridges between different races. Here are ways to boost these relationships.

Discuss the possibility of different races co-existing without being violent or conflict. These are conversations that should happen without raising emotions and in the process forestalling eruption of conflicts. It makes perceived oppressors aware of the situations of other people. They get sober and have an opportunity to reflect on the impact their actions and words have on other people.

Stop jokes that are stereotypical. It must be made clear that there is nothing funny about racism. Racist comments must be viewed as putting people down. The people who are aware of such negative treatments must take the lead and stop those who are out to perpetuate the vice. This should be done openly, especially by not entertaining their derogative language and insinuations.

Be introspective at individual level. Encourage other people to discern their words and actions before they get to the other people. Reflect on the impact certain words and actions will have on other people. By being in the shoes of other people, you understand the best way to treat them and avoid being offensive. Stories of tragedies and disasters that came out of racist comments and actions should be shared to drive the point home.

Be critical of the things you view, read and listen to. If the materials you encounter promote racism, it is time to abandon them. Do not watch or support events that are racist in principle. Avoid even debates and comments that make the situation worse. Do not even support people whose activities or engagements are considered racist. This message must be sent loud and clear so that the perpetrators can understand the message.

Work in environments where the community is made of diverse races. This diversity should spread from the lowest working cadre to the highest level of executives. As management or business owners, you will be sending a clear signal that you have no preference. It also makes each person to realize that he or she has an equal chance to work without prejudice.

Persons who promote racism must be punished severely. The policy on racism must be included in company regulations and policies. Each worker and partner must be made aware that your organization does not entertain racism. Punishment should be meted on those caught perpetuating the vice. There is also need to protect majority of the people from reverse discrimination from minority. Racism will cease to be an issue if everyone is treated as an equal.

There is something unique in every situation. This calls for candid discussions about the negative effects of racism and how to overcome this vice. Raise awareness on the damaging effects of racism to help improve relationships between people. You must be practical and lead by example if you expect other people to take cue from you. Your campaign should be based on genuine assessments and discussions.




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