I am reminded that every culture has its share of small-minded bigots and racists whenever the insult “Gwailo” is directed towards me or someone else on a street or in a store in Richmond.
I know what the term means but I refuse to sink to that low level of ignorant bigotry by responding to such people in any fashion.
I was brought up to judge people in relation to the values and principles that guide their lives, not by the colour of their skins — by how decent, civil, respectful, open-minded and altruistic a person is and not by which racial group they belong to.
Prejudices are supported by the formulation of stereotypes, and stereotypes emerge from ignorance and stupidity.
However, it is very unfortunate when some people, and perhaps even some cultures, demonstrate behaviours that reflect or even seem to justify negative aspects of a stereotype.
And as long as such things continue to happen in our interactions with each other, the longer it will take to eliminate disrespect, distrust, hate and conflict in our societies — if that will ever be possible.
It takes courage to ask, individually and collectively, why we hold to certain beliefs and values (where and how did we learn them) and whether or not they are truly valid and justifiable enough to hold on to, but bigots and racists totally lack the courage to ask themselves those questions, so they remain prisoners of their own ignorance and mental darkness.
When you direct a racially related epithet at another person, you are doing nothing more than revealing the indisputable weakness and shallowness of your own character. The best response to being the target of such insults is to be deeply thankful that you don’t have to live inside such a narrow, unenlightened mind.
Ray Arnold
RICHMOND
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