As Staples describes his lack of awareness another race's perception of a black man, I can't help but relate this to my own life. Of course, white females don't watch me, wary of danger; but as an Asian at Troy High, I understand how I can be "scarcely noticeable against a backdrop" of diversity.
Staples could once pass as normal or "good" compared to the violence and crime among his community in Chester, but now as he walks the streets of New York City, he has to become presentable by humming the tunes of Vivaldi. In comparison, as I walk the hallways of Troy High, I laugh loudly, chat about the strangest topics, and, at times, speak some Korean. Occasionally I catch a judgmental glance, but I have never been bullied nor victimized. And at times like this, I am brought down to reality and realize how incredibly lucky I am to be in such an accepting environment.
How many schools can pride themselves on having more than one Indian dance team? For having an Asian majority in the classroom? For serving diverse lunches? Without a doubt, Troy High has allowed me to have the number of friends that I have without having to feel unnaturally fixed into a mold. I have never felt pressured to dress a certain way, to abandon my ethnic lunches for a typical American one, or to avoid joining an academic club. In fact, last year, an AP teacher of mine brought to my attention that at our school, being smart is cool.
So often I hear complaints about the competition and stress-culture Troy High has---and I do admit that sometimes it does become overboard--but I want to start appreciating how welcoming and diverse (in multiple aspects) our school and community are.
Staples could once pass as normal or "good" compared to the violence and crime among his community in Chester, but now as he walks the streets of New York City, he has to become presentable by humming the tunes of Vivaldi. In comparison, as I walk the hallways of Troy High, I laugh loudly, chat about the strangest topics, and, at times, speak some Korean. Occasionally I catch a judgmental glance, but I have never been bullied nor victimized. And at times like this, I am brought down to reality and realize how incredibly lucky I am to be in such an accepting environment.
How many schools can pride themselves on having more than one Indian dance team? For having an Asian majority in the classroom? For serving diverse lunches? Without a doubt, Troy High has allowed me to have the number of friends that I have without having to feel unnaturally fixed into a mold. I have never felt pressured to dress a certain way, to abandon my ethnic lunches for a typical American one, or to avoid joining an academic club. In fact, last year, an AP teacher of mine brought to my attention that at our school, being smart is cool.
So often I hear complaints about the competition and stress-culture Troy High has---and I do admit that sometimes it does become overboard--but I want to start appreciating how welcoming and diverse (in multiple aspects) our school and community are.
I think it is really interesting that you figured out that Troy High is the opposite of the environment that Staples describes from his everyday life. I really enjoyed this analysis of how people in Troy interact with each other.
ReplyDeleteIt's so important to realize how lucky we are to be at Troy High and to be a part of the culture that it has. I love your positive outlook.
ReplyDeleteI really like how you put Troy High a positive light in contrast of Staples’ experience. It’s nice to know that we have the luxury of diversity in Troy, which isn’t very common.
ReplyDelete