4 answers
Myra
Student
New Bern, North Carolina
1
Question
Updated
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How do I prepare for racism in highschool ?
How do you prepare for racism in high school. I’m African American and I haven’t experienced a lot of racism in school but I’m worried for highschool.
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4 answers
Niha D
Physical Therapist
60
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Niha’s Answer
I'm a WOC, so I definitely get the fear. The very first thing I wish someone had told me was not to go in afraid. I made it much worse for myself by spending time worried something was GOING to happen. But, still, there are ways to prepare yourself without giving in to the anxiety:
1) What are you willing to deal with? Some people are flexible and let things roll off their backs, so only the really big incidents get them mad. Others need to stop microaggressions. No matter where your line is, make sure you know it.
2) Find people who can support you. Family, peers, and teachers/counselors that are either willing to listen or share their experiences with you can help you feel not so alone. Sometimes all it takes is just the ability to get something off your chest. Not to be cliche, but it's not as heavy when the burden is shared.
3) Safety concerns: be aware of security procedures for your school, as well as how to contact your school and possibly a teacher/counselor that you feel safe with if you are concerned about behavior or experience any racism or feel unsafe.
I'm going to be honest. High school is hard socially, especially these days, because everyone is trying very hard to be the coolest versions of themselves. But you can also find people who understand what you are dealing with, and will try and help you as much as they can. I hope this helps, and good luck in high school!
1) What are you willing to deal with? Some people are flexible and let things roll off their backs, so only the really big incidents get them mad. Others need to stop microaggressions. No matter where your line is, make sure you know it.
2) Find people who can support you. Family, peers, and teachers/counselors that are either willing to listen or share their experiences with you can help you feel not so alone. Sometimes all it takes is just the ability to get something off your chest. Not to be cliche, but it's not as heavy when the burden is shared.
3) Safety concerns: be aware of security procedures for your school, as well as how to contact your school and possibly a teacher/counselor that you feel safe with if you are concerned about behavior or experience any racism or feel unsafe.
I'm going to be honest. High school is hard socially, especially these days, because everyone is trying very hard to be the coolest versions of themselves. But you can also find people who understand what you are dealing with, and will try and help you as much as they can. I hope this helps, and good luck in high school!
JOHN German
90
Answers
Bluffton, South Carolina
Updated
JOHN’s Answer
Hello:
Be your best self. When you respect others, love others, and provide the caring heart that beautifies the individual that you were meant to be - rough to hate that individual. If you got a chip on your shoulder, hate in your eyes, and lead with a puff-chesting environment - that could awaken negativity's rise.
Love conquers hate not more hate. Too many people dueling against hate with their own hateful lens.
Also, understand the media can help division bloom with narratives, agendas, and the like. So, be the light that helps to squash those perspectives and repudiates the segregation's stronghold.
Thankful for your steps.
God Bless,
John German
Be your best self. When you respect others, love others, and provide the caring heart that beautifies the individual that you were meant to be - rough to hate that individual. If you got a chip on your shoulder, hate in your eyes, and lead with a puff-chesting environment - that could awaken negativity's rise.
Love conquers hate not more hate. Too many people dueling against hate with their own hateful lens.
Also, understand the media can help division bloom with narratives, agendas, and the like. So, be the light that helps to squash those perspectives and repudiates the segregation's stronghold.
Thankful for your steps.
God Bless,
John German
Enise Agel
144
Answers
Updated
Enise’s Answer
Hello Myra,
I deeply sorry that you experienced in high school.
It is an unfortunate matter across the globe. Thus, I would like to say;
You are not alone. Everyone experiences discrimination, and it is because of being different than others. I know it is difficult to deal with, yet you should know that you can do this!
You have the right to tackle racism once you defend yourself. You can join the club in high school, or join outside the high school, and meet the people.
Surround with the people who were and/or are still experiencing the same matter in high school.
Talk to someone you know the best. You can have some advice from your family, relative(s), or even your neighbour(s). You may spend time to discuss about the issue(s) you are currently struggling (I hope this issue ends soon.), so that you feel comfortable at least.
I hope this helps, and good luck with that.
I deeply sorry that you experienced in high school.
It is an unfortunate matter across the globe. Thus, I would like to say;
You are not alone. Everyone experiences discrimination, and it is because of being different than others. I know it is difficult to deal with, yet you should know that you can do this!
You have the right to tackle racism once you defend yourself. You can join the club in high school, or join outside the high school, and meet the people.
Surround with the people who were and/or are still experiencing the same matter in high school.
Talk to someone you know the best. You can have some advice from your family, relative(s), or even your neighbour(s). You may spend time to discuss about the issue(s) you are currently struggling (I hope this issue ends soon.), so that you feel comfortable at least.
I hope this helps, and good luck with that.
Annastasia Utin
Enterueprenuer / Event Manager
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Annastasia’s Answer
Hey there,
I totally understand where you're coming from – the thought of dealing with racism in high school can be pretty nerve-wracking. I'm a queer woman of color, and I grew up in a small white town back before the whole social media era took off. So, I can relate to your concerns about navigating this kind of stuff as a teen, especially considering how times have changed.
First off, kudos to you for thinking ahead and looking for advice. High school is a mix of great experiences and challenging moments, but being prepared can really make a difference. Here are some things to keep in mind:
**1. Learn About racism:** Knowing the history of racism and how it can be like a superpower. It's like having a toolbox of knowledge to help you understand and respond to any unfair situations.
**2. Find Your Crew:** Surround yourself with friends, teachers, and people who've got your back. Having that support network can make tough times a whole lot easier to handle.
**3. Boost Your Confidence:** Building up your self-confidence is like armor against negativity. When you feel strong and confident in who you are, it's way easier to brush off hurtful comments.
**4. Take Care of You:** Dealing with racism can be emotionally draining, so make sure to do things that make you happy. Whether it's reading, playing sports, or just hanging out with friends, self-care is a must.
**5. Speak Up, Set Boundaries:** If someone crosses the line with racist remarks, it's totally okay to stand up for yourself. Calmly expressing your discomfort and setting boundaries can show them that you're not someone to mess with.
**6. Know Your Rights:** Familiarize yourself with your school's anti-discrimination policies. It's important to know what protections you have as a student.
**7. Choose Your Battles:** Not every situation requires a big confrontation. Sometimes, educating someone gently can work wonders. Other times, it's okay to walk away.
**8. Open Up Conversations:** Talking openly with your friends and peers about racism can help create awareness. Sharing your experiences and listening to theirs can lead to more understanding all around.
**9. Lean on Adults:** If things get tough, don't hesitate to reach out to teachers, counselors, or your parents. They're there to support you and can step in if needed.
**10. Express Yourself:** Using your creativity to express your thoughts and feelings about racism can be empowering. Whether through art, writing, or something else, it's your way of making a statement.
Remember, you're not alone in this. There are people who genuinely care about you and your well-being. Your experiences are valuable, and your voice matters – you can make a positive impact on your high school community. Just take things one step at a time and know that you've got the power to handle whatever comes your way.
I totally understand where you're coming from – the thought of dealing with racism in high school can be pretty nerve-wracking. I'm a queer woman of color, and I grew up in a small white town back before the whole social media era took off. So, I can relate to your concerns about navigating this kind of stuff as a teen, especially considering how times have changed.
First off, kudos to you for thinking ahead and looking for advice. High school is a mix of great experiences and challenging moments, but being prepared can really make a difference. Here are some things to keep in mind:
**1. Learn About racism:** Knowing the history of racism and how it can be like a superpower. It's like having a toolbox of knowledge to help you understand and respond to any unfair situations.
**2. Find Your Crew:** Surround yourself with friends, teachers, and people who've got your back. Having that support network can make tough times a whole lot easier to handle.
**3. Boost Your Confidence:** Building up your self-confidence is like armor against negativity. When you feel strong and confident in who you are, it's way easier to brush off hurtful comments.
**4. Take Care of You:** Dealing with racism can be emotionally draining, so make sure to do things that make you happy. Whether it's reading, playing sports, or just hanging out with friends, self-care is a must.
**5. Speak Up, Set Boundaries:** If someone crosses the line with racist remarks, it's totally okay to stand up for yourself. Calmly expressing your discomfort and setting boundaries can show them that you're not someone to mess with.
**6. Know Your Rights:** Familiarize yourself with your school's anti-discrimination policies. It's important to know what protections you have as a student.
**7. Choose Your Battles:** Not every situation requires a big confrontation. Sometimes, educating someone gently can work wonders. Other times, it's okay to walk away.
**8. Open Up Conversations:** Talking openly with your friends and peers about racism can help create awareness. Sharing your experiences and listening to theirs can lead to more understanding all around.
**9. Lean on Adults:** If things get tough, don't hesitate to reach out to teachers, counselors, or your parents. They're there to support you and can step in if needed.
**10. Express Yourself:** Using your creativity to express your thoughts and feelings about racism can be empowering. Whether through art, writing, or something else, it's your way of making a statement.
Remember, you're not alone in this. There are people who genuinely care about you and your well-being. Your experiences are valuable, and your voice matters – you can make a positive impact on your high school community. Just take things one step at a time and know that you've got the power to handle whatever comes your way.