Embracing Cultures & Correcting the Ignorant

Photo Credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/gfVofr15ICc?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditShareLink

---

Many 2nd and 1.5 generation Immigrants share the memory of being ridiculed for eating food or speaking a language considered “foreign.” This negative attitude can enforce a negative stigma around our own culture. 

This engraved stigma starts at a young age and can cause one to disassociate themselves with their culture, background, etc. In the long run, this can lead to many issues. One is that it can cause someone to not learn their native language, and therefore cause a language barrier between an individual and their parents. Another being that it can cause someone to feel resentment toward their culture. In other words, loathing the lifestyle, food, traditions, and language you were raised by.

How do we stop cultural stigma?

In order to stop this negative stigma from forming/stop it from affecting your relationship with you and your culture, we all have to learn to embrace not only our own, but everyone’s culture. Learning to accept and support other cultures will help diminish negative stigmas and their consequences from forming.

“Easier said than done.” Well actually, the problem really just requires proper education. For example, parents should take the initiative to teach their kids about respecting other cultures. It will help educate the child and will allow them to better understand much larger issues (like racism) in the future.

What can schools do?

However, parents shouldn’t be the only ones taking the initiative. Schools should also do so by incorporating activities, books, and lectures about embracing our differences. And no, a “month” (a few activities throughout the whole month) of dedication to Black History is not enough to teach these kids about being open-minded. 

(Side Note: The problem really just requires proper education, so why isn’t it enforced? May it be because some parents and adults in charge of the school curriculums also share that stigma? Or because they want to stay in the middle? Why shouldn’t we learn about the parts of history where the people we praise took part in slavery, racism, and ignorance?)

For those who have grown up ignorant, it’s not too late. Adults, believe it or not, can also be educated. Educating adults and those who already feel poorly about other cultures and races isn’t the problem though. The reluctance to learn and accepting the fact that they were wrong is. Breaking down this reluctance requires our voices and spreading awareness.

---