Monday, June 15, 2015
"Race" Essay Reactions
Below, you should respond to one or both of the Race-themed essays: What to the Slave is the Fourth of July by Frederick Douglass and The Myth of the Latin Woman by Judith Ortiz Cofer. You should not write formulaically, and we should be able to hear your own unique voice in your response.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
65 comments:
Kayra Reyes: According to Frederick Douglass and Judith Cofer, the populations of America have created their own standards, expectations, and stereotypes that have ultimately led to their supremacy over the surrounding minorities. In the beginnings of our country, the over powering problem was slavery as the white Europeans abused of the African groups in order to provide a source of free labor and an easy step stool to power. Douglass argues that the whites have created a false perception of slavery and of Africans using sources and theories the ironically would argue the contrary. Despite the clear evidence provided by the very own who deny it, the Anglo-Americans, as they force Africans to face consequences and live up to expectations that everyday citizens face as moral “humans”, reject any recognition of African individuals as human beings and treat them like animals. However, Douglass brings this fact to the light and helps his audience to recognize the hypocrisy that is supported as they all celebrate a day of freedom as they continue to enslave a group of people and deny them their basic human rights based off of faulty excuses they can easily disprove but refuse to. After the hundreds of years and social progress as those of color are liberated an allowed various freedoms, there is still found flaw in the American view of minority groups, this time Hispanics, as Hispanic norms seem to contradict the American norm and are seen as barbaric behaviors rather than cultural factors. Cofer recalls the many moments in which she felt ashamed of and challenged by cultural background as she is forced to face media spread stereotypes and low expectations about Hispanics. Due to the low opportunity the community has to surpass the given standard and the lack of respect that is directed toward Hispanic groups unintentionally because of set ideals, Cofer has encountered many situations in which a college or herself have either been found to surprise others with their achievements or be mistaken to have a lower lifestyle or ability due to the comedic personas they have been given on TV. In result, Cofer realizes that the only way to change one of the many ideals placed upon minority groups would be to change people’s mind, one at a time. When a whole country has been categorized and labeled, it is difficult to remove these views, however, with private and personal revelation, change can be seen over time.
Race is an idea invented by humans as a mean of separation of color and traits, as well as a mean to make others feels less. In Frederick Douglass speech, Douglass essay expresses that exact same feeling of race makes others feels less and separated. Douglass essay at times gives vibes of anger and sadness through his explanation on how the day of american independence does not resemble his or anyones because of the simple fact that slaves did not receive their freedom as part of that same day. If the other had happened, him and others who could have been freed that exact day would have been able to join the rest of america because it resembles freedom of slavery and oppression by others who controlled almost every day aspect of individual's life. However that did not occur. Douglas talk about the feeling he feels towards this day and how many should not join based upon his views. However this comes to show his ignorance on how individuals like him don't deserve the right to feel that experience and will do all it takes to hinder them from feeling that american joy of freedom. It comes to show how one individual and his views of race can be blocked by his or her experiences and impede others to gain experience that could benefit them.
Race should only be the way people around the world represent themselves, and their culture pride. Race Myths have created boundaries between many races leading to many conflicts. In the Myth of the Latin Women : I just met a girl named Maria by Judith Ortiz Cofer she shares how Latin and Hispanic women pass through many stereotypes and cultural differences in the United States, because males and media have put a different image of what a true Latina is. Many people around the world see Hispanics as uneducated people that are not capable to succeed in life but that is false. Many Races including Hispanics do not get the acknowledgement they should, and respect because of many cultural differences and stereotypes that do not allow for equality to fully develop around the world. Even tough Cofer passed through many unpleasant circumstances because of those stereotypes she is thankful because the education her family provided to her , and cultures values helped her overcome those difficult moments through her education when she was a target of those stereotypes that society has created of particular races. Cofer tries to convince society that laws cannot change people from stopping those stereotypes and cultural differences to stop however we can change our mentality and accept everyone how they are. Cofer never let people put her down even though she struggle because of the myths that exist , she wants people to be aware that skin color does not define what someone is capable of achieving.
Frederick Douglass explains how Fourth of July does not bring joyous memories as he remembers. He remembers Fourth of July as day in which great pain has brought amongst his people when he believes that his people deserve much better and that he is not there to argue the fact that African Americans were denied many things while whites had access to all. He finishes off by saying that he will look forward to the day in which African Americans are allowed to be free, to be fully free as in God’s words and God wishes. Douglass continues to advocate for equal justice and rights along with citizenship and how he believes that although America has come to a slight change that the nation is capable of way more positive change. He condemns many for keeping quiet and not doing anything about slavery sooner. In the next essay Judith Ortiz Cofer describes her life growing up as a Latina and she describes many vivid events that remind her all that she has been through. She continues throughout the essay explaining how Latinas are described and interpreted in negative ways when in reality it is a part of their culture. She wants to ensure that Latinas are not what society labels them and they are in fact needing a change. The author wants to ensure that the stereotypes and myths about Latinas. That Latinas should be treated as respectable women and not be treated as objects. I agree with what this essay mostly has to say and how it handles the issue of race, many need to be aware of their words and how their words can affect someone in a negative way. Both of the essays really touch on the topic of race and how to this day changes have been made in the world. Changes that need to be good and should continue to promote equality amongst all races and the prospect that we are all human beings and should be treated as such-Ann Perez
Race is a part of our identity. With race comes many stereotypes. Even when people try to escape the stereo type, like Judith did, the people around her only saw what they wanted to. What Judith went through was very relatable, as hispanic women we are expected to stay at home and raise a family and nothing other than that. People have low expectations about other just because of the color of their skin or their background. As i read the essay I was enraged to see how she was treated especially knowing that she had done what others did not expect. It is shocking to know that even after all her hard work, the stereotype is how people defined her. No matter what people do, the stereotype still travels around with them. Culture plays a huge part in our identities, but people lack knowledge about it. People use race to separate themselves and place themselves on a higher level or say they are superior. Minority groups would be more involved in the community is they were seen for what they are instead of just a stereotype. Race is something a person should be proud off and want to show off, yet because of the society we live in people try to avoid it and are embarrassed by it. Today people are suppose considered and treated as equals, however, race is still used against others. In my opinion stereotypes can serve as a motivation, people want to prove others wrong and show that their race does not define them; they will take the opportunity to show their race does not make the incapable.
Frederick Douglas starts his speech by thanking there founding fathers for what they have done for their country but then changes to how their society has made race a major part. He lets the world know that the Fourth of July should not be celebrated fromAfrican-Americans because of slavery. Making it clear that African-American weren't not given the same opportunity and freedom as whites do. He uses the example that he had to teach himself how to read and write while whites were given that. Also states "America is false to the past, false to the present, and solemnly finds herself to the false the future", meaning America society has not been able to realize mistakes in the past and present but also don't realize how their mistakes now will affect decisions made in the future. Douglas just wants to see the day that all men are given the same opportunities and freedom is God wants it to be. On the other hand, Judith Ortiz Cofer talk some more about how Puerto Rican's are stereotyped. Latin girls have their own traditions and clothing style that finds man to be more attracted to them. Even though that was a part of Cofer tradition she didn't let me in this respect her because she knew she was better than that. No matter what Latin girls Will have those stereotypes they just need to be sure to not like those affected them. Steroetype and race can effect both people just need to be sure to not let that hold them back from being successful.
Both Fredrick Douglass and Judith Cofer's stories on race were very powerful. However, Douglass' speech regarding the celebration of 4th of July was very aggressive in the way he downgraded the significance of that day for America. However, even though his speech was full of anger and hate, he had a right to express that anger because it was very hypocritical of Americans at the time to be celebrating 4th of July because not all people were technically free. He had his strong opinion in favor of the minority of the population, the slaves. He believed it was wrong, hypocritical and disgusting for America to spread this notion of "land of the free" if not all of the people within America are free. He believed that African Americans were people just as much as the whites, so why couldn't they have their human born rights and freedom. He describes slavery as wrong and inhuman and it was time for a change and time for their voices to be heard as they continue to fight for their freedom. The minority groups like the slaves are human beings and nothing will change if the intolerance and ignorance of the white class does not change. Douglass makes it perfectly clear in the end of his speech as he refers to the commonly known idea that, "two hands are better than one." America will finally be free and at peace if everyone just got along in unity rather than having this continued feud for the rest of time. Also in Cofer's story, I found it very relatable because no matter what race you are, you are always going to encounter racial prejudices and stereotypes based on the color of your skin. Cofer's story, however, focuses more on the latina community. Cofer is a Puerto Rican woman who has a very traditional family that still followed their roots in eating Puerto Rican foods, talking in Spanish and going to church masses. As she started living in the United States, she started to learn that people looked and spoke to her in a certain manner all because they could tell she was from a latin background from the color of her skin. She encountered all the typical racial stereotypes you can think of: from latina women being born beautiful, to latina women being excellent at cooking and cleaning and to not get a good quality job "fit for a man." Although Cofer encountered these daily harsh prejudices, she carried herself with class and never even thought about putting someone in their place in a angry or aggressive manner. Cofer simply did not believe in showing her anger, rather than prove the person they were wrong and ignorant. Prejudices are always present no matter where you go or who you are, you just have to know how to deal with them.
Race, whether we like it or not, will always have a part in identifying who we are. Frederik Douglass’s speech was very empowering because it showed people a new perspective. Fourth of July in the United States is a day where everyone is happy, and celebrating a huge accomplishment on the American part. However, for Douglass something completely different happened to him that day. Fourth of July to him was a reminder that African Americans were not respected as much as a Caucasian member of society, even though everyone acknowledged that they were both human and both deserved the same thing. To him, arguing that slavery is immoral is like arguing that man is entitled to liberty. There is no point in arguing for it because everyone knows what is correct. Frederick Douglass’s argument is extremely powerful in a very respectful way. He does not stoop down to the level of denigrating anyone, instead before he starts his speech he says that he has respect for those who signed the Declaration of Independence. Judith Ortiz Cofer’s essay was also very powerful, and even relatable. The way that Ortiz specified on how what seemed normal to her, might seem vulgar to someone from another culture shows just how different people can be. Even though people grow up very differently, there should still be respect for everyone. One of the parts of the essay that stood out to me the most was the fact that men looked at the way that she was dressed as something sexual, but only because that is what they grew up thinking. The instance where she was mistaken for a waitress also stood out to me, both because the offense that they committed was unintentional. A lot of the reason why people are racist is because they have prejudices about certain races, sometimes because of things that people older than them tell them. In order to eliminate racism, we have to eliminate prejudices.
In the Speech, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July", Frederick Douglas starts off by thanking the founding fathers for people's independence. This speech particularly accomplished to change the perspective on how America is seen. One must note that America is very shady when it comes to race. America with race brings stereotypes, as well as biased cases such as recent events with police officers shooting innocent native american's. Furthermore, Douglas continues to add on by saying "The blessings in which you, this day, rejoice, are not enjoyed in common-The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence, bequeathed by you fathers, is shared by you, not by me." this basically says the rich which are mainly the white enjoy this freedom...but as for blacks it can not be commonly celebrated as America still has stereotypes.In my opinion i agree with Frederick mainly because people should not be judge by the tone of their skin, race to me is characteristic or type of heritage you have but overall we should not prejudge others because how they live, because they didn't have the opportunity to choose how they wanted to grow up.
Race is a defining part of who we are. Being a minority bring up challenges such as fitting in. In a way all people try to fit in and be accepted into society. It is only natural to try to change yourself to fit the people around you. Growing up a certain race already subjects you to being an outcast. In Cofer’s story, the young girl was constantly trying to find a way to be like the other girls, but as she grew up she experienced different challenges. Instead of just trying to fit in, she had to endure the mistreatment of other people. She was treated differently because of her race. Her race allowed for certain people to believe that mistreatment and sexual harassment was acceptable. Race plays a large part in people’s lives and it is something that can never change. The biggest reason for why race is such a big deal in society is because certain groups of people believe that one race is better than the other. Trying to be better is a natural human instinct and race only adds to the competition for who is better. Growing up as a minority myself has caused me to develop in a way that the majority will not. Being Asian helped me develop a tougher skin and it has helped me become the person I am. Race will always play a part in who people treat other people, but as time goes by race becomes something that is easier to accept. In my opinion, the treatment of people shouldn’t depend on the color of your skin. Modern culture is constantly changing and people should be changing with it. Race shouldn’t be something that separates people, but instead it should be something that brings people together.
In the Frederick Douglass' 1852 essay, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July", he questions the validity of July 4th, our nation's independence day, being that slaves are still not free. Race has been a huge issue in our nation's history and still is as of today. During this time period, however, there was a huge debate and tensions between the North and the South over slavery that later ignited the Civil War. The South believed that slavery should still exist, where as the North believed that it should be abolished. Many Southern whites at the time believed that blacks were inferior to the white race and even created many white supremacist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan to spread their beliefs about their superiority to the nation's people and to establish the "status quo". With all this hatred and oppression taking place that only seemed to be reaching its zenith point, Frederick Douglass dubs our Independence Day as a "sham" due to the fact that blacks were continued to be excluded from society and were not truly independent. When the Declaration of Independence was written in 1776, our nation sought to be free of British rule. About a century later, blacks seek to be free from the rule of their masters. Why should blacks celebrate a holiday about being independent when they're not? Fast-forward to 2015, although there has been significant improvements in establishing racial equality, blacks still face racial prejudices and ignorance as of today. We have grown so much as a nation as well, but the issues and cases I witness today pertaining to racism leads to me to question whether or not we will be able to establish racial equality in its entirety. As a African-American teenager, how can I believe that this will ever occur when we still have these active white supremacist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan. Although, in my opinion, we have acquired the independence that we have yearned for, in a way, we're still not free of racism and we will never be as long as people harbor hate for others because of the color of their skin rather than the content of their character.
The myth of the latina woman : I just met a girl named Maria
Just reading the title excited me , I am fascinated by the intersection between feminism and latino culture. One of the first lines that stood out was "you can leave the Island ... the Island travels with you ". The nature of culture isn't inherently bad or good and it appeared that Cofer wanted to escape her heritage, or at least some aspects of it. This inference was further supported when Cofer explains the danger of stereotypes. This reminded me of a Ted Talk about the danger of the single story. In it the speaker affirms that a single story generalizes a people and that there is truth in some stereotypes but you have to expand the perspective the story covers to form a more a holistic understanding. I made a checklist of the elements most often associated with the latino culture, the Spanish language, savory food and Christianity. I found myself relating to Cofer's childhood experiences from the double standards, gender roles and societal expectations. I loved the statement on the "hot tamale" stereotype. It is absolutely unacceptable that a latina woman's status is reduced to that of food, when one is clearly much more valuable. When it comes to romantic relationships ,ironically a woman is freed through the traditions in the culture. However it is important to note that cat calling and sexual harassment is never asked for or acceptable. The struggles of the Latina women continue in the workplace where racism and sexism combine as a giant antagonist. The myth of the Latina woman itself denies recognition to the women , I aspire to join in the future. I want to further my education to be able to help debunk stereotypes and change the way society thinks about people like me.
The myth of the latina woman : I just met a girl named Maria
Just reading the title excited me , I am fascinated by the intersection between feminism and latino culture. One of the first lines that stood out was "you can leave the Island ... the Island travels with you ". The nature of culture isn't inherently bad or good and it appeared that Cofer wanted to escape her heritage, or at least some aspects of it. This inference was further supported when Cofer explains the danger of stereotypes. This reminded me of a Ted Talk about the danger of the single story. In it the speaker affirms that a single story generalizes a people and that there is truth in some stereotypes but you have to expand the perspective the story covers to form a more a holistic understanding. I made a checklist of the elements most often associated with the latino culture, the Spanish language, savory food and Christianity. I found myself relating to Cofer's childhood experiences from the double standards, gender roles and societal expectations. I loved the statement on the "hot tamale" stereotype. It is absolutely unacceptable that a latina woman's status is reduced to that of food, when one is clearly much more valuable. When it comes to romantic relationships ,ironically a woman is freed through the traditions in the culture. However it is important to note that cat calling and sexual harassment is never asked for or acceptable. The struggles of the Latina women continue in the workplace where racism and sexism combine as a giant antagonist. The myth of the Latina woman itself denies recognition to the women , I aspire to join in the future. I want to further my education to be able to help debunk stereotypes and change the way society thinks about people like me.
The myth of the latina woman : I just met a girl named Maria
Just reading the title excited me , I am fascinated by the intersection between feminism and latino culture. One of the first lines that stood out was "you can leave the Island ... the Island travels with you ". The nature of culture isn't inherently bad or good and it appeared that Cofer wanted to escape her heritage, or at least some aspects of it. This inference was further supported when Cofer explains the danger of stereotypes. This reminded me of a Ted Talk about the danger of the single story. In it the speaker affirms that a single story generalizes a people and that there is truth in some stereotypes but you have to expand the perspective the story covers to form a more a holistic understanding. I made a checklist of the elements most often associated with the latino culture, the Spanish language, savory food and Christianity. I found myself relating to Cofer's childhood experiences from the double standards, gender roles and societal expectations. I loved the statement on the "hot tamale" stereotype. It is absolutely unacceptable that a latina woman's status is reduced to that of food, when one is clearly much more valuable. When it comes to romantic relationships ,ironically a woman is freed through the traditions in the culture. However it is important to note that cat calling and sexual harassment is never asked for or acceptable. The struggles of the Latina women continue in the workplace where racism and sexism combine as a giant antagonist. The myth of the Latina woman itself denies recognition to the women , I aspire to join in the future. I want to further my education to be able to help debunk stereotypes and change the way society thinks about people like me.
Race has been present in this world for many generations. To be part of a race is to have different cultural beliefs, or to be raised differently, or to be treated differently because one person feels superior to another due to their race. Frederick Douglass and Judith Ortiz Cofer both felt as if their race was badly treated through personal experience and felt as if they do not belong. Frederick Douglass speech to us gave new perception on the celebration of Fourth of July. Too any, Fourth of July is a time in which people celebrate the independence of the United States, but Douglass does not see like that. Fredrick Douglass believed that African American did not gain anything because they were still being enslaved, burn to their flesh, and starved in order for them to be obedient and submissive to their masters. Douglass found it ironic that people all over the world were celebrating the independence of the country when African American were still being treated as slaves and inferior by others who thought they were of higher power. Furthermore, Judith Ortiz Cofer was treated the same way. Growing up Latina in America can be difficult because people are prejudice to Latin women due to the way society portrays them. Social media has played an important role in how Latina women are view because of the way they are used in movies and television. Judith experienced this prejudice plenty of times growing up from her peers at school, random moments when she was casually walking to her home, and even when she was going to do a book signing for her own book that she had recently published. Judith has grown up in a world were men and women find it reasonable to treat her has a lesser person than what she really is. For as long as the world keeps on showing that to discriminate is acceptable on social media and movies, the more children are going to grow up thinking that it is acceptable to treat certain people the way it is shown on movies and television.
Race should not be a negative thing, but many people use race to stereotype a minority group and belittle them in society.
People start to believe these stereotypes and classify everyone in that certain minority group as that stereotype, and not giving them the chance to prove themselves to be more than a silly stereotype. Judith Ortiz Cofer emphasizes that stereotypes makes it difficult for Latin women to overcome this idea that all they are just "whores, domestic, or criminal." Life becomes a struggle because of these perpetuated misconceptions and society begins to see these Latin women nothing more than those stereotypes. Cofer's main goal is to get society to look past the color of her skin, her accent, and even her clothes because she is more than these things and she wants people to know that as well. Latin women are always faced with various stereotypes wether it is over sexualizing these Latin women and calling them "hot tamales" because they are Latin and more free spirited than your typical American. America's society sees these Latin women so sexual because of their cultural and customs, but society has to realize that their is two totally different cultural sand not everything will always be the same. Society makes it seem as if it is a sin to keep a custom when you move places, because seeing a women dress more freely makes them look "hopeless and vulgar" even though it is a custom they have since they lived in a tropical island. Not only does media portray these Latin women as sexual stereotypes but media also describes most Latin women to be no more than maids as if that was the only thing Latin women could surmount too. The media makes this illusion that Latin women can only be Maria the housemaid, "the funny Hispanic women mispronouncing words and cooking up a spicy storm " these Latin women are being belittled on media to be perceived as if this if this is the only thing Latin women can do. If this was not bad enough Latin women have to face many obstacles because society and media has made this image for them that makes it difficult for people to see them more than these misconceived stereotypes. When it comes to Latin women they are perceived to be nothing because society is making it seem as if they are, merely a character in a cartoon universe. In retrospect Latin women can do more with their life than just be these incompetent stereotypes because their are many Latin women who have surmounted these stereotypes and made more of themselves. Society and the media should look past the color of the skin or the accent of a voice or the clothing of a person and push past that and actually see the person as an equal human being.
Frederick Douglass makes the point that a black man shouldn't celebrate a white mans freedom. He feels that until black people are fully free to be a citizen that maybe the world is able to change. Later in the passage he condemns America for not staying true to the principles as a country. He doesn't find it fair that blacks where kept away from their freedom. 4 th of July was the liberation from the British in which Americans boast freedom and liberty and to him he isn't able to celebrate. Because to him he didn't have full rights his people where slaves to the white and rich. It's just a disgusting remember acne for him and he came to the conclusion that he can't be part of this celebration until change. -Jailine canales
Race has always been a difficult subject to speak upon mainly because everyone has their different opinions, race is generally the most discussed subject. in America we have many different races intertwined with one another and sometimes people in america people believe not all races should be celebrated the same. such as some people stereotype different races into different categories of how bad they are expected to make a positive or negative impact to america. the races that fall under minority groups are African americans, Latinos and or from Asian decent. which i personally believe every race should be equal in america but in reality the way things are currently looking in 2015 is race plays a big role in mass shootings or certain things happening to certain people and all these connections we relate it back to are races going against each other. Fredrick Douglas gave us this eye opening speech of what freedom should be and why us people tend to celebrate it so much. freedom and or independence is a big thing to obtain or even over come. being captive to someone or being referred to certain references or slang just because you are a certain race should not be allowed. not all races follow the stereotype that people make certain race to be. everywhere race should be celebrated and feel accomplished when something great happens for the people of all kinds not for just one race it should be equality for all not for one. i state what i just said because every race has had their own battles and let downs so lets celebrate equality for all not for one it will send a bigger message if we an all work together to become one unit. - Sarieyah Orellana
One theme that is illustrated in the story, "The Myth of the Latin Woman: I just Met a Girl Named Maria" is the idea of identity as Judith struggles to "belong" with people around her who saw her like an outcast. Many women in this world are targeted as objects that men can have whenever they would please without caring that they too are humans rather than an object. Today I myself experienced the ethnic differences between a mijority class and a minority. A white woman told me and my family to keep quiet because we were being "too loud" in a restaurant. At first I had no thought of her comment until my mother stated that the only reason why this person even said anything was bc she knew we would not talk back to her knowing we are Hispanics but if it was another race she would have staid quiet her self. The reason why I comment this happening is because I realized that no matter how little a comment is people will always look down on us just because of our race. Most Latinas would not defend themselves just because the fact is that we are so used to this kind of behavior that we do not stand up for who we are and let people take advantage of us. Latinas have fought all their lives to have the same opportunities as the rest of the world, yet society believe they are incapable of succeeding just like everyone else. Race is a part of who we are And just like Judith stated, "If you are a Latina, the Island travels with you", race is something we can't just change it makes us special, different, and creates our Identity. Judith also states, "Yet I am one of the lucky ones" demonstrating that Latinas can succeed in life, they don't have to let people look down on them. If people want to see change they have to be the change in this world if not race will be the only thing that defines them. - Alejandra Castillo
As I was reading through both essays, I decided to think about my race and how it shaped my identity. I believe that race has a huge impact on how someone identifies themselves. Some can embrace their race, some can dislike it very much. Although I do see more of the former than the latter, I do know of people who embrace their race yet hide from the common stereotypes associated with it. I have struggled with my race and what it means I’m supposed to mean. “Wait you’re Mexican, but you can’t fluently speak Spanish?” is something I hear a lot of when I tell people I do not consider myself bilingual. I have always struggled with the fact that I cannot fluently speak Spanish like my parents, elders, and even friends; it led me to believe this is one of my flaws. It has, at times, made me question my identity. I used to feel inferior because of this. I’ve learn to embrace the fact that I cannot fluently speak Spanish, but I can, and do, embrace other aspects of my culture. Speaking Spanish does not make you a certain race, but it allows you to recognize that you are apart of a community, something greater. As I read The Myth of the Latin Woman: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria, I could not help but agree with a number of points she made. It is hard to be a young Latina when many stereotypes still exist. I have been catcalled, harassed, and even spoken to as if I could not understand English all in my 16 years of life. To me, this is disturbing. I do not blame myself for any of these things, I’ve been taught better, but it still bothers me that the color of my skin allows others to treat me differently. Cofer writes “the myth of Hispanic menial has been sustained by the same media phenomenon...” which is true. The media plays a huge role in how they discuss certain racial groups, how they present them, and how they can continue racial profiling or stereotyping. The continuation of the “national psyche” on certain races is troubling, but I doubt any of this will be erased completely any time soon. Cofer’s essay made me realize that I will continue to face struggles as I grow, but I just to have to hold on to small hope they won’t affect my life completely. Racism is still present in America, it may be subtle, but it’s still here. -Bianca Carrizal
Race is what makes a person who they are, behind race is history and cultural adventures. I personally connected to “The Myth of the Latin Woman: I just Met a Girl named Maria” by Judith Ortiz Cofer, because Latina woman are held to expectations and raised a way that gives others a reason to pick on us. Many times you here “you're hispanic so you should now how to yada yada” and the last words in the phrase can be replaced with a variety of stereotypes targeted to latinas. Although some stereotypes may be true, its difficult to respect your culture when others make it difficult to continue your traditions. Through time I have noticed the jokes towards latina’s have slowly decreased and have been respected, instead people have been invited to celebrate our culture like Quinceñeras. Cofer’s essay may give off the vibe that she disliked her duties because it caused her ob pursuing her dreams like writing books and traveling difficult but she list a set an examples that have set her off but has continued to praise her latina background. Cofers life experience is a paradigm for many latina women such as myself and clearly exposed readers to a set of examples where jokes about being latina like calling a latin women “Maria” can be offensive. Although Cofers essay was towards the latina’s it can also be targeted to many other minorities. Race has been identified for centuries and some people accept their race but sadly when you’re born into a specific race, you're born into specific stereotypes for every specific race. The sad thing is sometimes these stereotypes are followed, but individuals tend to follow a different path and prove their stereotype wrong. Except just like Cofers experience some people are held back from escaping an expectation because others tend to make it difficult. The sad part of all of this is the media has personally persuaded people into believing in these stereotypes and giving others a map to hurting someones feelings. Cover then finishes her essay with the statement that she would want to replace the myths about latinas with realities, but this goal can be put up for each individual race. Everyone should be able to follow their traditions and make their own map other than what the media has portrayed what will happen in the near future. In order to escape harsh stereotypes, people have to work for what they want and not give up on the amount of dirt people have thrown into their clean sand, for it can still be cleaned by following their dreams. Race is a beautiful and horrific but in order to escape the negatives towards race, one must learn to cope with society and ignore the harsh comments and myths created towards their race.
Race is something we are all born with and it is our identity and how we express ourselves. Some Latina women, like Judith Cofer, were taught to dress a certain way because where they came from men were not be able to touch them and if they did the entire family would come after them. As a Puerto Rican woman, Judith Cofer was faced with many stereotypes that clashed with the way she was raised. Such as having to hear Hispanic names thrown at her only because she looked and dressed a certain way. Although Cofer only references to this one race; there are many types of races that this happens to. People cannot just take back their race; it is with them throughout their entire lives. It is disheartening to see and hear in the media about other minority groups that and are harshly pushed for doing the smallest things. Why do we base our decisions on the color of skin? We all came from the same place, there is no need for all the hatred that has taken place and will probably continue to take place in the future. Race is something is undeniably the most important thing about ourselves and by disrespecting each other for it we bring more reasons for others to do the same. We show children it is okay for them to make fun of someone for the way they look and act or even how they talk. So like I said at the beginning, race is something we are ALL born with and it IS our identity and how we express ourselves.
After reading Frederick Douglass essay, I think back to that nations anthem; "the land of the free and the home of the brave." When I also think about what Douglass was saying I feel like I've never actually thought about the 4th of July that way. Meaning that when I hear the 4th of July I think of fireworks, freedom, battles, blood, but I never actually thought about it as a day to mourn. Not only to mourn those who died in battle, but mourn the slaves suffering. Frederick Douglass keeps on explaining how he feels like him giving that speech on that special day for America is as if America is mocking him because when he thinks about the freedom the 4th of July represent, he only remembers the brutality that his people had to face. He doesn't believe that the 4th of July is a day for him and his people to celebrate, but a day in which he remembers all the blood and disrespect that they encountered during the "perilous fight." Frederick Douglass finishes him speech with a poem. A poem of hope. This poem is like a prayer from the slaves. Meaning this poem talks about one day there will be freedom, friendships, and God, but until that day, they will keep striving.
Race is a concept that is use to categorize people based of where a person was born. This division between the people is one of the reasons there is misinterpretations from a race or discrimination against one; because of these categories, many common races forget the idea that we are all equally humans. In Frederick Douglass “What to the slave is fourth of July” essay, he feels disappointed and resented because the brave men who were able to gained liberty for America are unable to realize that slavery is a wrong thing. Slavery was slowly destroying a race that was unable to share their customs and cultures like a free man; therefore Douglass argued that the Fourth of July and any other day in America is a disgrace until Slavery is abolish. In terms of Judith Ortiz Cofer’s story “The Myth of a Latina Woman: I just met a girl named Maria,” I was able to connect more to it because it shared common difficulties about her race that I had to go through as well. Many different Races within each other misinterpret customs of a race and begin to judge and discriminate. I personally felt enraged when a father and daughter were making fun of Maria in a hotel just because of her appearance. Many believe that just by seeing different customs from them, they believe that a whole race is like that; I think each Race is the way they are and should be respected. Like any human, every person should be able to share their race values and traditions like any other, without having to worry about experiencing an insult or offense by another race. I know for a fact that if I ever live through an offense based on my race, my first impulse would be to yell back, but reading how Maria took care of the insult made me glad for her. When one is insulted by their race, you shouldn’t attack back because that will only make the offender think badly about your race, instead make themselves realize what mistake they have made; it will give you a more satisfaction. -Jennifer Gomez
Frederick Douglass makes it clear that July 4 is not a holiday, for the black man at least. He stresses that this day is nothing but torture to his people. It’s just another reminder that they still did not have the freedom they deserved. I think that Frederick Douglass was felt insulted when they asked him to speak about how it felt about July 4th. He felt insulted because he was a black man and he still did have his freedom. He makes it clear that they were not treated equal when he states “your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us”. This shows that this was not the independence for the black man but only for the white rich men. Not only does it show how differently both races were treated it shows the power the white man had.
Racism has always existed and will continue to exist no matter what. Yes there may be less racism going on today but it is still present and we can try everything in our power to stop it but there will always be stereotypes about people and their culture. I say this because in the past blacks were slaves, they later gained the right to be free but were still mistreated. Today, blacks are incarcerated and mistreated by again, white males. In "What to the Slave is The Fourth of July?" Frederick Douglass mentions that the fourth of July was not a holiday for blacks because they are not worthy of celebrating the independence and liberty of this country. But it is not just blacks that get disrespected, Latin women also get disrespected by others. In "The Myth of a Latin Woman: I just met a girl Maria" I personally felt offended and disrespected while reading this article because the author Judith, would mention how men would sing songs to her in Spanish, but it would be in an offensive and teasing way. It would feel like they were making fun of her culture.. Hispanic women get called “hot tamales” which not only describes spicy food but it is also a way to describe an attractive woman. Judith also mentions how people saw her differently because of how she dressed. They knew that she was Puerto Rican because of the clothes she wore. She mentioned that for her career day, she mixed up outfits that she would wear for different occasions and people pointed out that they knew where she came from because of how she chose to dress. Your race is part of your identity, like Cofer said “you can leave the island, master the English language, and travel as far as you can, but if you are Latina, the island travels with you. - Giselle Garza
As I began to read the essay of the Latina women, I can honestly say that most of the things in the essay made me feel a little mad at how stereotypes have managed to still be present at this time. The stereotype that Latina women are great domestic partners and that is the only thing they are good for, is not the only thing that we are known for. For me, I believe that this essay gave me even more motivation to prove this stereotype wrong by going out there and making people see who a Latina woman can go out there and speak with large words and change the world. When it comes to being a minority in this country, it is hard to overcome a stereotype and racism if it is so prominently seen in the media. When Cofer started to explain how Latina women are personified in the media, I began to nod my head because I have seen that stereotype been used so much in the media. People have a misconstrued perception to how Latina women are if they only believe what they see on in the media. I can see that stereotype with many races with how Blacks are seen as the violent ones, the Hispanics that are only there to work out I the fields and clean, and there are so many more with different stereotypes out there are that are still in people's minds. Overall when it comes to racism, it is going to still be there if there is not a change in the way world cannot accept change in the job system, businesses, and other areas where there is a lack of races from around the world.
A stereotype is a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. When you think of different stereotypes, a major one would be the idea of a Latin woman. Judith Ortiz Cofer uses the excerpt "The myth of a Latin woman: I just met a girl named Maria" to reach out to the public audience in an effort to diminish the stereotype a Latin woman has hanging over her head every time a non-Latin person sees them. One major aspect in the excerpt is clothing. "Maria" goes to school everyday and looks much older than the rest of the other girls because she is being raised in a household where parents are more strict on the clothing their children wear. Because of Maria's clothing style, she is instantly discriminated by all the other kids because she dresses in older clothes or because, when she dresses herself, she is wearing too much clothes. If a Latin woman is wearing not enough clothes she is discriminated against and people blame it on her race. If she wears too much clothes she is discriminated against. If she where's uptight clothes she is discriminated against. I understand that clothes say a lot about a person but just because she is a Latin Woman wearing older clothes or too much clothes does not mean that her race should be the first thing non-Latinos choose to blame. Another important aspect in the excerpt is education. I agree that Latin women struggle due to the lack of education that most women receive throughout the course of there life. Because of the lack of education the stereotype of a domestic Latin woman arises because with out education you cant get very far. Although some of the stereotypes are true, it does not apply to the entire race of Latin women. Because people neglect to see that, most Latin women trying to make something of themselves suffer because of this idea of a poor domestic Latin women. There are Latin women correlating with the stereotype and their are Latin women becoming successful. Successful or not, if a women is instantly categorized as Latino then they will be seen as poor domestic people. Even if the status quo is broken, racism does not seem to escape in any ones life.
Race shows others your identity. After reading, Frederick Douglass states that slaves weren't included in the Fourth of July because they didn't have their rights like others did. In "What to the slave is the Fourth of July?" Douglass states that the independence is the only thing that separated whites and the slaves. Douglass also describes that they weren't treated the same as whites. In the passage it states that " your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us" this qoute shows that they didn't have independence or rights.
Race is something that was created by man kind in order to rationalize why human being can have a variety of different looks. Many races believed themselves superior to the others, so they did not even believe that the others were human. Whites were the ones that felt superior to the African Americans and since whites considered themselves human and above the African Americans, their rationalization was that the African Americans could not be human since they were human. Whites did not believe they were doing anything wrong in having slaves because they saw them as animals, so they did not see the harm they were causing the African Americans. In Fredrick Douglass's essay it shows how the African Americans viewed their treatment, and they were angered because of all the suffering that they lived through. To them the 4th of July was not a day of celebration but the opposite, they were angered by this celebration. Fredrick Douglass shows his frustration and anger towards the holiday and demonstrates how many African Americans felt. This frustration and anger even grew even more and created hatred between races. This hatred was so strong that it survived through many generations and still exist today. Many races still have dislike towards others and others still believe they are superior to other races. However many people do not understand that even though your race does unite you from others of the same race, it is not something that separates you from other races. Race is something that can be united and become something even mor unique with the collision of cultures. Race will always be a part of who you are, but it should not define what you do. Race should bring cutlets together not separate them from one another.
Racism is a cycle in our society that from a very early age affected the minorities such as the Hispanics/ Latino, and African American. On this essay is not only affecting their race but also their gender. On The Myth of the Latin Woman: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria by Judith Ortiz Cofer, Judith shares a part of her life where she immediately experienced racism on first hand. The facts that she is a Latina Woman and were they are stereotypically treated. Just because she was Latina they accepted her to be one way was they taught Hispanic woman are wild. When in reality is not true and when were are described as maids and other type of domestic needs saying that “They make damn good domestics” as if that’s the only think we are able to do when is not true and the myth is wrong again making us seem as we aren’t capable on gain our money on working on offices and being doctors and that were aren’t able to gain our education as many other races get them in high-class schools giving us a lot of help on the future. This essay of the myth the having towards Latina woman, I personally took it offensive on it, on how men are teasing Latinas on their way of speaking, walking, and the way they dress as if we a provoking them to assault them, but they are on the wrong thinking of Latinas as “Hot Tamale” and criticizing the clothing they are wearing as vulgar and trashy to go out. As well that Hispanic woman are been treated by mans who think that that’s what Latina girls deserve and nothing more or less. Humiliating them into a point that causes them to submissive against the abuse they are giving. Because yes it’s true and real that calling woman names and assaulting them is abuse against them and their race. and even now today our Latina woman are being treated unfairly at their work, home and society.
The harsh reality is that racism and stereotypes have just become a part of our daily lives, no matter what your cultural background is. It ultimately affects everyone. It definitely pains me how the world we call "home" has so much prejudice and ignorance especially when it comes to something we all cannot ever simply control. Why must a person of one race have to treat another person of s different race as if they are some type of foreign species? Why not embrace their unique differences? Being Vietnamese-Chinese within a predominately Hispanic community, I can definitely relate to Judith Cofer's experience of feeling "out of place" in society. Growing up, there has always been those couple of people who would make fun of my small Asian eyes or mock me by rudely imitating a Chinese accent. Plus, there was always the irritating question of "Are you Chinese?" Even though it may seem like a harmless question and I am half Chinese, that still does not justify the assumption that all Asians are only from China. With all this painful racism, I would even try to deny my Asian background to other people because I wanted so desperately to "fit in" and feel "normal" to my peers. However, I eventually grew to realize that my cultural background and customs was an essential part of my identity and that I should be prideful to share my heritage and stand up against offensive stereotypes, not ashamed. No one should even feel pressured to place restrictions/limitations on themselves to just feel like they actually belong in society. Our value should not be determined by a stereotype, but rather genuine characteristics of ourselves. We should be viewed as unique individuals, and not allow racial myths to define an entire race as identical beings.
In "The myth of the Latina Women: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria" it expresses one of the major types of stereotypes we people suffer in as minorities by people assuming our name might be Maria, Jose, or Juan just because we might look like we come from a Latin descendent or heritage. Its sad to think that our world has come to a place of stereotypes and racism issue. The issue does not just exist in the Mexican race but also African Americans, Asians, Indians and so forth races. Stereotypes is what now brings separation to our country and people what brings more fire to our wars already inflamed between countries allies and enemies. Racism should not be dealt with lightly its a form of bullying and can harm the feelings of citizens in our country. Race issues exist in many place such as a place of business where many people might not hire someone for the color of their skin or their background. No one should be neglected an opportunity to better their lifestyle based off of race.
In Frederick Douglass essay he complains how the English people cover up all of the wrong they have done by having a celebration on the 4th of July. I think he is wrong in that the English want to celebrate how they have overcome the problems of slavery in the past and can now live together. This essay he writes focuses mostly on how the English wronged them and how they can never be forgiven for what they have done. This is a bad way to handle this kind of situation because it puts the blame of previous wrong doings on their children forcing this hatred between races live longer and never be able to be fixed. Instead of pointing out how bad the past was he could have focused on how the future of America can be celebrated and looked forward to. At the ending he does admit that these happening are part of the past and he hopes it is just the past and prays that God will shine his light on America to make it a better place for everyone. I loved the way he started off his essay by complimenting the English men then leading into how they are hated by the former slaves because of the lifestyle they were forced to live. He also is very upfront with how he and everyone he represents feels he doesn't try to soften up their feelings he says they hate them and that the English and them are completely different in the opinions they have about the founding fathers of America. The prayer that he gives at the end is AMAZING. He wishes that all feuds come to an end and that everyone is equal and he and everyone else will strive to make this happen no matter the cost because it is worth it to have equality within blacks and whites and all the races of the world. He wants America to become the haven for the mistreated and underrepresented. - Xavier Diaz
Truthfully, race will always play a big role in identifying who we are, but the prejudices held against others solely based on color is backward and brainless. After reading Douglass's "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July", I noticed the hypocrisy and misery that American history is tainted with. As a nation, we beckoned those who hoped for a better future, even back then as Germans and Italians flooded the northern states, yet kept them below us and ruined their dreams. Douglass points out that while America boasts liberty and freedom for all, African American people, human beings, are subject to hideous torture, abuse, and treatment in general. Decades passed while African Americans were made to slave away for the rich and powerful who cheered in joy over their own freedom from the overseas tyranny of Britain, blind to their own misdeeds. In Charlie Chaplin's Great Dictator speech, he cries, "To those who can hear me, I say - do not despair. The misery that is now upon us is but the passing of greed - the bitterness of men who fear the way of human progress." In a way, this is Douglass's message as well since, in the end of his speech, he shows hope for the future and a day of true equality amongst men. While he and countless others have suffered in chains, there is no resentment towards the ideals held by Americans, rather an annoyance at their ignorance. Like Chaplin's speech, Douglass knew no true progress could be made while those who feared change argued over the difference between slaves and man. America is like the embodiment of Oedipus since we have committed self-enucleation in terms of removing the parts of ourselves that let us see injustice and humiliation done onto those of another skin color. Although this was written in 1852 with the hopes to change the outlook of citizens, incidents occurred well through the 1990s considering the death by dragging of James Byrd Jr in Jasper, TX.-Andres Olvera
In “The Myth of the Latin Woman: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria” by Judith Ortiz Cofer, Cofer tells the story of her childhood and how she grew up and the different types of acts of racism committed against her. She talked about how she felt odd for dressing louder compared to her peers and how the growing up the boys thought she was only good for her body and the discrimination she faced in professional work settings by her superiors as well. And no matter how many times she tried to prove those stereotypes wrong by earning an education and getting a career that she was successful in people only wanted to see the common misconceptions and stereotypes that followed her everywhere she went. Even with discrimination she faced in her younger years and the discrimination she still faces and will continue to face she is proud of her race and the culture it came with because it helped shape who she is and her unique perspective on things and she thanks her family for that and the opportunities the were able to give her because she knows many women are not able to have the same opportunities because of the common stereotypes that ten to follow latina women and are therefore not taken serious because they are seen only as a “whore, domestic or criminal”. I think Cofer’s idea can be applied to all different types of races being that there are a lot of common misconceptions or stereotypes that tend to follow different types of races that get in the way of them pursuing a career, being accepted into a school or whether or not they are committed for a crime because of their races ad the specific stereotypes associated with.
I believe race is a person’s heritage but as well how they describe themselves and what a person is born with mostly the family before them. One of the most empowered essay’s that I have read was “The Myth of the Latin Woman: I just Met a Girl named Maria”, because me for my self-have the same heritage. I believe it was one of the most empowered because it shows the conflicts that a Latina woman has to go through every generation, but as well many of the traditions or the way we are taught to dress, talk and act. Her story seem one of the best because many women do have many struggles because of the way we are dressed, we either get discriminated against or get judge on. For example for me the way some skirts I would wear when I was younger , I would get picked on because I was too Mexican or even when older the way we would wear our skirts .Our skirts were too tight , that we showed too much skin and many other things including names like “mamasita”.I believe many women can feel what she feels because of our traditions, for example the parties .I believe her essay was an actual empowerment because women have had many experiences but we still show that even after that, that does not affect us as much . Her essay as well made me realize that there is other women like me that have been thought the same situations. I additionally believe that racism should not be allowed but because of our history, many people still do it. Racism for any person should not be acceptable because of their race and heritage, instead of judging there should be an acceptance and a chance to meet someone else who might have the same heritage or even other people with different heritages that can end up being really good friends.
Race should not make a person feel less or more. Race is your culture, your identity, where you can get along with others because you agree with their views. Racism is very present to this day. As I read "What to the Slave is The Fourth of July?" it made me disappointed because it is a holiday that should be celebrated by everyone, but there is one race that feels that they are being mocked. The people that feel mocked are the African Americans because they were the slaves for the people with money and the people that can actually celebrate the country's independence. It only reminds them that they do not have the ability to feel free and brave. Racism happens all over the world to all kinds of people not just a certain type. As I read the other piece "The Myth of the Latin Woman: I just met a girl named Maria" it made me think about how other people view me as. Maria was followed by her culture and that made people judge the way that she was perceived. Men would be very disrespectful to the way she dressed and would do “piropos” meaning flirtatious comments. It is very uncomfortable for a lady to be called a lot of names that were not meant in a good way. They also said she dressed too fancy and with a lot of colors when her classmates would dress in a different way. Every race has their own type of traditions which make each one different and that does not have to mean that they should be belittled. -Paloma Hernandez
Stereotype are often the one of the main issues when discussing race, and they stand on the way of letting any race reach their full potential. In "The Myth of the Latina Woman:I Just Met a Women Named Maria" by Judith Ortiz Cofer,she talks her culture, and growing up always standing out because her cultural norms did not fit those of the people around her. Even as an adult she experiences people undermining her or mocking her just because she is Latina. Ignorance and Stereotyping go hand in hand; instead of belittling a certain race one should understand that just because that person is of a certain race they do not have to fit their stereotype. Also, no one should be undermined or belittled because of there race. Every race has the potential to gain success, however when stereotypes and narrow minded stand in the way it is a little harder to achieve that success when people always assume the worst or believe a stereotype. All cultures have different traditions and norms, and no one should be judged for following through with their cultural traditions and norms. Stereotypes should not be permitted to hold anyone back, but if stereotypes were so easily believed there would be more opportunities. No one should have to be ashamed of their culture they should be able to embrace without being discriminated against.
Race is a topic that has been a huge part of many conflicts and controversial issues today. People often judge each other based on their race because of stereotypes and past experiences. Race also often causes people to become close minded and ignorant which shines through Frederick Douglass's piece, What to the Slave is the Fourth of July? I've always wondered if there was those like me who didn't make much of the holiday and Douglass's essay pushed me to question why my family didn't go out and really celebrate the Fourth of July. Douglass expresses his anger and indignation for the holiday because he can not relate to the joy other races feel that day due to the fact that salves did not receive their independence that day as well and still had to deal with harsh situations ans unfairness. His essay shows how race causes boundaries between races and conflicts because the experiences they faced has shaped their views. Although Douglass does bring a great point, how can their ever be change or a limit on racism if ignorance and anger limits there to be any change or bring people together. Will we ever truly reach social equality?
I really identified with "The Myth of the Latin Woman: I Just Met a Girl Names Maria" and no, not because of the stereotypes that my ethnic background has plastered on to me but quite the opposite. I grew up being teased for my almond eyes and olive skin tone. I didn't "deserve to be Mexican". I grew up in the bario of East End, Houston, I didn't speak a like of english until I was in kindergarden, and both of my parents were born in Mexico/ Puerto Rico and raised me in the culture of their home land. But see, both of my parents strived for a college education, made a comfortable living and bestowed a comfortable lifestyle of exposure to the luxuries of life upon me and my siblings. To the rest of my classmates I was "white", or "asian". I made straight A's and at age 9 had already decided that I was going to Rice University and frequently read the sunday paper to keep up with news and when people learned of my hispanic background, it always came as a surprise. Why? Does my ethnicity limit my productivity? My success? My goals? In coming to America my grandmother became a nanny to the blonde, cherub children of a pyscologist in Bellaire. When the boys needed homework help and my grandmother would offer they'd turn up their noses and want their "mimi" to help them because my grandmother wouldn't get it. Mind you, underneath her broken english, their nanny had a college education and was a teacher back in her home town of Piedras Negras, but because her accent was heavy and her skin dark, the boys opted for their high school drop out "mimi" who said that their 3rd grade teacher was stupid because she could not understand the "simple" long division on the paper. i love that Ms. Ortiz Cofer was able to bring to life the stereotypes and struggles of being an educated minority but am saddened because all my life my parents pushed me to be the best. On trips to Montrose and to see million dollar houses and dine at America's because they wanted me to strive for that life. Because I was cultured I was "white" in my community but there are thousands of children unexposed to the things that they can accomplish. Years in Magnolia and Years of going back to mexico to see my cousins pregnant at 16 and no ambition taught me that. YES has helped many students see that if they push then they are able. I hope that some day I can make a difference in that because everyone deserves to at least know what is out there.
Judith Ortiz Cofer explained perfectly what it is like to be a hispanic woman in a westernized world. In the seconds paragraph of her essay she explains that being a minority could have the positive impact of getting someone's attention for a little while longer. I'm not entirely sure if I see this as a pro or con. I guess I would appreciate the attention of someone, but my ethnicity should't be why I'm getting the attention. There is more to someone than their stereotypes. One of the only part's I could't really relate to is when she said that people still tried to "put her in her place". Because I have always been surrounded by other hispanic people I have never really felt like an outcast because of my ethnicity. However, looking at the percentage of hispanic students at universities makes me aware of the challenges I could be facing soon. As I've gotten older I've began to really realize how much an education impacts people's opinion of you and your race. I've had older people comment on how well I speak english, despite it being my first language. My ethnicity somehow became a reason for me not to be intelligent. I strongly agree with Cofer that my education and understanding of the world helps me process people's blunders. I don't get offended because I realize it's internalized racism that people may not realize they keep. However, someone who hasn't had the access to a quality education might not be able to internalize it very deeply. Cofer doesn't just address racism; she addresses the type of racism that seem to not be taken seriously. But those misconception that may just seem as mistakes or accidents only add to negative stereotypes that are keeping people in their place.
In 1977, America won independence from Britain and became a free nation, with no parliament power. It is 2015, and race is still a revolting issue that drives the nation into great controversy constantly. Just the other day, I saw a huge truck with two confederate flags sticks on each side of the vehicle. There are and will always be white supremacist who are against challenging the status quo and their ethnicity's power against the rest. Slavery may have been abolished in 1865 but the prejudice mentality that some white people continue to hold, is primarily the reason why social inequality has not been, and may never be abolished. Slavery coexists with the concept of Social Darwinism, where the white race believes they are on a higher pedestal against all other races. Stereotypes originate through the demeaning perspectives against other race's culture, traditions and beliefs because it is classified and seen as provocative and abnormal from their own values. Judith Ortiz Cofer's memoir is inspirational and eye-opening to the Hispanic community. Cofer is not afraid to express her voice and I love that about her. Cofer takes her anger against society's views against the Hispanic community by challenging the typical stereotype her ethnicity is destined to. Cofer may have been exploited to the harsh realities where Hispanic women are degraded in the United States, but she did not let it define her and who she is. Instead, with the help of her parents, she became educated and proficient with the English language. In the beginning, I myself misinterpreted Cofer's intentions and believed that she wanted to distant herself from her own cultural background and no longer wish to be a part of it. However, as I reread it became clear that she never wants to forget where her background origins came from, she only wishes to purify the stereotypes that others label them as. The main problem to target is the media because the media is what the people follow and are constantly up to date with. Although people, like the women who accidentally thought she was a waitress didn't intend to order coffee from her, it shows how the media has disgustingly portrayed the Hispanic community as maids, cookers, waiters, etc. It is difficult for the white supremacists' in Fedrick Douglas' and Judith Ortiz Cifer's speech to see a race that they have degraded, rise against the norm their ethnicity and race classifies them to. Both of these speeches are empowering and written by minorities, with such a bold statement, and a voice that speaks for all classified people who are wishing to escape the fate others destine them to.
Race has been out of control ever since time. to this day people are still fighting for equality. Race shouldn't be something to be ashamed of instead it should be embraced. Your race can bring people together because there is a similar culture and likes and dislikes, but yet it still unites people. Maria was very disrespected while she tried to embrace herself and her family which wasn't good because then that brings people to be ashamed of where they come from. Race can be a scary thing to some people of a different race because its something different than to what they are used to, but to me I find it something that you can learn from because it is something different. in my family I have different races and we learn about how things were in the past from Mexicans, African American or American, either way we learn and we sill bond because your trace should not be something you are ashamed of and people shouldn't be put in the position that Maria was in when the men when harassing her. -Jackie Gonzales
Racism has been accuring for the past years and still is now a days. In the article ¨What to the slave is the Fourth óf July¨ by Frederick Douglass really impressed me in the way he described how he felt about the celebration of 4th of July. How for us it was our rights but for him it has brought stripes and death to him. How that day is nothing to him but a day he just hates. I feel that throughout all that he knows that racism still is going on today and why is it that we celabrate 4th of july when actually not everyone has their freedom and rights. The article just made me see how we in America celabrate 4th of July as a big deal and have so much fun, seeing Fireworks, while there is still people out there struggling to for rights, dealing with racism. He feels that freedom isshared by everyone else but not him. People do not see the fsct that slavery playd a big role in his life and many others and then after being freed they end up having to go through a lot of racist people. Idont see why people can not justr live a normal fair life. And realize how everyone is the same, so therfore should be treated the same.
Race is a word that describes who a person is based on similar and distinct physical characteristics. In this case race has been used to discriminate a certain group of people. In “What to the slave is the Fourth of July” by Frederick Douglass, Douglass explains how to the white people the Fourth of July is something we celebrate but to him it signifies the start to a world of pain and suffering. He wonders what him and others like have to do with the independence because they have nothing to celebrate. They can only fear for their lives and wish their lives were different because all that’s happening is they are being hurt. They are forced to clean and cook and do anything and everything the white man says while the whites celebrate this beloved independence that does not go to all citizens. Douglass expresses how all the other citizens have gotten “light and healing” while he has gotten nothing but “stripes and death”. Even more so he explains how forcing someone to join in this “joyous” occasion is inhumane when the one who is being forced into the celebration has nothing to do with it. Douglass emphasizes how to many this celebration is amazing but to him it is nothing but a painful reminder that he is seen different from many of those around him. He states that above all the joyous cries he hears nothing but “the mournful wails of millions” just like him who really cannot join in the joy that everyone else is so happy about. To Douglass the Fourth of July is “a day that reveals to him, more than all the other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim.” Douglass feels this because he knows that slaves will never be able to enjoy such a horribly celebrated day.
Sharing the same culture with usually a set of people with relation to you. Race, being a young half white and half Mexican has its perks, but not so many. People don't consider me to be half Mexican because I don't speak Spanish fluently like others do. Otherwise I have little to no experience with racism in my life. That was how I always felt about racism until finally growing up and attempting to obtain an internship last year for sports radio. In a huge office waiting to be called up for a meeting with somebody important I noticed around me nothing but pure white kids. For once I was finally the touch of caramel in the vanilla ice cream. After being called up, the person their said that I was just too colored to obtain this privilege of having an internship. I could not wrap my head around the news the whole day I was speechless wondering why because some of the talk show hosts are clearly more Mexican than myself. Harley Wayne Dugan does not sound the least bit Mexican to me at all probably more white than the names of those white kids. After reading Frederick Douglass and Judith Ortiz Clofer's pieces of literature I feel a little relation to either of them. Although now I have a better understanding of both viewpoints and have some sympathy toward the essays whether it is not being respected or treated differently for the color of your skin I now can realize the meaning behind culture and heritage. Does not matter what race you are or the color of your skin we should realize that racism will not go way, but it is more than just our basic races experiencing this problem.
The importance of race cannot be undermined or ignored. There are certain burdens that plague each race, and I found interesting the way in which the essay “The Myth of the Latina Woman: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria” presented the stereotypes that surround Latinas. I liked the idea that culture clashes and misinterpretations could provide an explanation to the stereotypes. However Cofer did not excuse people that acted on these stereotypes neither did she write them off as simply ignorant individuals. Cofer attempts to understand why people perceive a certain group of women a certain way which I really liked. She looked for an explanation and then used it to further explain her argument. I think she’s an interesting writer in the sense that she keeps the reader engaged. There are some aspects of her essay that are somewhat unclear but for the most part she kept me interested in her argument. I was not sure if she was suggesting for Latina Women to assimilate to American culture or if she was asking others to be more aware of the inaccuracy of stereotypes that surround her race. However she did make it clear that she wanted acceptance and respect for Latina women. I really enjoyed her anecdotes because they made her essay a little bit more relatable and a lot more interesting. I can understand and to a certain extent relate to what Cofer has experienced because of her race. The prejudices based on race have always existed and will continue to exist because we are all different. This essay made me wonder if there is a possibility that society could ever reach a level of progressiveness in which prejudices didn’t exist anymore. It made me question whether that was realistic aspiration.
Race has always been an interesting topic to discuss in our society and a sensitive one at that. Frederick Douglas reminded me of how cruel society was to those who were of different race back then and even now. His essay " what to the slave is Fourth o July" was such a will executed and powerful essay. When reading I found myself lost of words on the argument or explanation to why there was slavery.there is no way someone could argue that slavery is justified without sounding absurd. I really enjoyed reading every word he wrote because you could hear the determination in his voice to inform the public of all the wrong America has been ding to he slaves and it needs to stop. Race is something that should not matter when interacting with people. Of course it is something that cannot be unnoticed but it should not be the way you judge how smart a person is or what kind of person they are. Also race should not have been something that determines which rights you have access to which was the case back then. Thankfully present day racism is not to that severe degree of violation of rights like slavery. Of course there is still work to be done about racism because there is not question that racism is still a huge problem in today's society.
One's race is something to take pride in and continue the flow of traditions as they are passed from generation to generation, but it has become something people are ashamed of and instead continuing the flow of traditions, the allow traditions to die off. People prefer to let part of who they are and where they come from disappear from their lives in order to avoid the stereotypes, weird looks, and disrespectful treatment that they experience everywhere they may go. In Judith Ortiz Cofer's "The Myth of the Latin Woman: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria", the struggles of a Latin American woman are brought to attention by someone who has experienced it first hand. To me, it is amazing how despite all the negative experiences this woman went through, she never lost ambition to become someone as successful as her. I believe that while going through experiences such as Cofer's: being identified as a waitress simply because she is Hispanic or coming across an old man who sings insulting and abasing songs at the sight of her, can tear one down and make one feel ashamed and embarrassed, it can also motivate one to prove those people wrong. I think that Judith Ortiz Cofer is a perfect example of this, not only did she appropriately and civilly deal with the situations she was put through at the time, but she also came to be a famous writer that is now well respected and is representing the Hispanic community in a way that will hopefully makes people realize that even Hispanics are capable of anything. There is no difference between one or the other. Man is man and there should be no difference between them. This affects me personally because I am hispanic, yet I do not see myself any different from any other person. I do not want my parents, my brothers, or myself to be judged solely on our roots because in the end, we are capable of accomplishing the same things as any other person. I want to be known for my accomplishments and my knowledge, not what I look like or where I come from, and I think this applies to people of multiple different races.
Race inequality has always been a big problem in the United States. In the essays "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?", and "The Myth of a Latin Woman" they both talk about unequal treatment their race has received. Frederick Douglass writes about how black Americans don't celebrate Fourth of July the same way white Americans do in the 1850s. As an educated man Frederick Douglass talks on behalf of all of the slaves that are not treated as equals. He points out that inequality that they are experiencing by listing all the jobs they do without getting enough credit for it. Because of this people might become ashamed of who they are even though they should be proud of it. Just because there isn't slavery now it doesn't mean that there isn't inequality. Another example of discrimination against a different race is the essay "The Myth of the Latin Women" written by Judith Cofer. She writes about all the stereotypes she experienced as a Latin woman. People start to lose their culture because they're ashamed of i people start to lose their culture because they're afraid of being judged. In the essay Judith writes that American culture is different than the Latin culture she was used to. A different culture affected her throughout her life in America. She noticed many stereotypes ever used to describe her. Your race is a big factor in The United States because it is how other people see you.
In What to the Slave is the Fourth of July? I noticed one thing very quickly. I noticed that in the title of this speech by Fredrick Douglas it has a question mark. This to me showed that to a slave during this time the fourth of July was a mystery. Something that they have never experienced and as the speech went on I began to understand why. Douglas addresses the irony of asking a former slave to speak on the freedom of America during a time before the civil war. However despite his anger and lashing Douglas does has a certain way of saying his words. He uses many Bible quotes that must make the people in the audience cringe in their seats and want to flee the celebration. One thing I loved about Douglas’ speech is that he took the opportunity to attack these men and women when it was given to. Being a freed slave must have given him some courage to take action in this situation. I understand however that Douglas is a risk taker and would not let anyone walk over him. By bringing God into his speech Douglas made him and the audience more relatable to each other. He continues to do this further in the speech when mentioning the irony of oppressing a race that does the exact same things but is punished for it. By making him and the audience relatable to each other he is able to create a space where his words are understood more. At a moment in the speech he says that God will get them for their actions against fellow humans. The main reason for that only exists because their actions are inhuman. Despite these angry emotions toward the fourth of July during this time it sheds a light on what life is like now to blacks in America 163 years later.
To me, race has never really been an issue. I realize that it has been a huge problem for other people all around the world. When reading "What to the slave is fourth of July" it gave me a whole new perspective on the day itself. To see a national holiday in that light,to see the entirety of a race rejoice in the fact that they can call themselves free, while next to them stands the race that has known true imprisonment more than they ever will. Fredrick Douglass reminds us all that the celebration of some may be a taunt to others. Bringing this to light shows us all that race was an issue and in some cases still is.
Race is something that we think does not exist anymore but it does. we face it everyday and in the past couple of years we have seen it happen over and over again. race has been on top of many news headlines and top new reports. I do believe that the issue on race can be solved but it will never stop. i feel that over the couple of years things have increased. we can work to improve this issue but this issue will never completely solved.
What is the slave to the fourth of july if I ask to them it seems that their view to the fourth of july is rather a disappointment to the American culture. Mainly because that throughout history race has always been an issue and as for the fact of from Frederik douglass speech has showed how that racism has not changed entirely that the amount of hypocrisy of freedom that is heavily used on shows for that slavery on the fourth of july is nothing more of a joke to them on celebrating freedom to their masters rather than as americans as a whole. Proven from douglass view on America that it remains hypocritical that their view of freedom is nothing more of a white persons excuse. Even today it has shown that racism is still strong today but not as severe as it was before. Which is why douglass bring in a good point to the fourth of july on slavery that he merely uses the founding fathers of the united states that they have not done anything to prevent this sort of situation. As far as blaming them for bringing slavery to this country that brings in suffering for African slaves not deserving freedom as whites.
Frederick Douglass made it loud and clear that he was disgusted by Americans' celebration of the Fourth of July at the time of slavery, before the civil war. He believed Americans did not have the right to celebrate "freedom" since not everyone was free. As one gets deeper into Douglass' piece, he becomes more angered and aggressive, saying that there is no hope for the future of America. Slaves should not celebrate Independence Day if they are not free, which is really unfair for them, and mockery from Americans. Race to this day is still a huge topic, especially racism, which includes oppression and many false and offensive stereotypes. Racism is still an issue today and some people refuse to acknowledge it. Police brutality is a topic I have researched time and time again, always with a new article on an African American male or female that has been harmed, or most times killed, by a white American police officer. The black lives matter movement has people enraged. Not at the fact that people are supportive of the movement but the fact that it is happening due to unjust police brutality. Racism exists due to the history that each race holds and others think it is okay to treat a minority race lesser than one's race because of this history. Racism has never left, nor will it leave if we keep separating ourselves from races that are not our own, and if we keep an arrogant mindset.
Reading the passage written by Judith Ortiz Cofer made me think of the inequalities Latin women faced at the time. Reading the sexist statements made by men to this women sounded unbelievable. I kept thinking of how women dress shouldn't be how they are treated by men. This got me thinking about social interactions amongst males and females all together. If a man were to dress provocatively now it would be seen as more of a joke than anything else. Then I thought about how it would seem if a women were to do the same thing. It would be seen as ludicrous and outlandish. The term "Whore" or "slut" would be used to describe that women. This made me think that not much has changed about the way society views women. In a time that embraces individuality it still refuses to allow women to dress the way they want. This all makes me wonder if social equality will ever be achieved or if women are always going to be held to some kind of standard while men are free to dress the way and act the way the please.
Race is something that will always be there. There are some people who are very blunt about race and some who are not. This is where the conflict comes to play because in "what to the Salve is the Fourth of July?" By Frederick Douglas, he questions a lot to get us thinking about how different race were treated and the experiences they went through. However, people like Judith Ortiz Cofer explains her experience in "The Myth of Latin Women: I Just Met a Girl Named Maria". She explained how the stereotypes of Latin women were portrayed and she was seen less than everyone one but used that as motivation to become someone and better than everyone who doubted her. She's a great writer now. The discrimination helped them grow into better people.
Frederick Douglass is calling our the hypocrisy of the white citizens in the celebration of the freedom while there is people that have never even gotten the chance to taste freedom. It is offensive that they even thought of asking Douglass to speak about freedom when people that look like him and the people he represents are, at that every hour, being worked to death by their white, free masters as if they were a savaged animal. Blacks have never done anything wrong to deserve this treatment, and they are entitled to every right a white man because everyone is born equal. Social Darwin made people believe that some races are just naturally better fit for life than others, and that the world will eventually kill them off because they are not smart enough to thrive. White enforced this ideal by ripping the black people of their freedom to make the physically inferior and denying them education to make the mentally inferior. The less knowledge they have, the less likely they are to revolt against their superiors. Parts of social darwinism can still be seen in wonder day America, but it is not as present as before. Minorities still struggle with inequality in modern day America. Minorities tend to connected with crimes and negative effects of society because they are thought of as savages and uncivilized. Studies show that a white man makes more money than a black man would at the same position. If minorities get lower pay, they have a smaller chance to climb up the social class ladder. Low pay causes them to live in a poor income community that has bad education. People can not better themselves or have a better future if they are not adequately educated to make them able to survive the competitive work environment against white people.
Race is something we all wish would stop or go away but unfortunately it's not like that. Recently there have been lots of cases that have to do with race that have caused there to be lots of hate and riots. For a while we hoped that racism would come to an end or at least would have calmed down but it still goes on and people are being treated unfairly no matter their race. In Frederick Douglas speech, he was invited to speak about freedom on the fourth of july. Douglas felt offended that he was asked to speak something like this because he felt that he himself did not have freedom yet. He used rhetorical questions throughout his speech and then answered those questions himself. Douglas was trying to be direct about how he felt angry but he did not want to be completely rude so he tried to express his opinion in a different way. We all wish racism would come to an end but we all have to work together to make it stop.
Post a Comment