Article Title

Two Cents

Authors

Sam Avila, Roger Williams University

Abstract

I took a Literature class a couple of years ago where we read different poems and short stories that focused on the Civil Rights Movement as well as social justice as a broader theme. I remember reading the poem “Ballad of Birmingham” by Dudley Randall, which magnified the emotions of African-American families in a powerful piece of literature. When I read that piece, I fell in love with writing again and I wanted to share stories through literature.

I wrote this piece because it was a way for me to reflect on a society that can act so hateful towards others simply because of physical and cultural differences. I grew up with my Grandma being an important person in my childhood. She is the one who taught me to be kind to others, to see the world in a positive light, and to stay true to your morals. So when I had heard what happened to her now when I was older, my heart was broken.

I then started wondering, if our society truly believes in treating the common person with kindness and dignity, then how does something like this happen so publicly? There must be a point within our society’s conscience to realize that acts like these are wrong, and it seems like it is up to our generation to start this change.

In a world where we would hope everyone respects our elders, that has simply not been a reality for my family. It is clear to me that people are unable to see through stereotypes and prejudices in order to treat others with simple respect. Acts of racism and discrimination occur anytime and anywhere, but we need to call out these hateful acts in order to obtain true justice. This is for my Grandma; for whom I love very much.

Recommended Citation

Avila, Sam (2019) "Two Cents," New and Dangerous Ideas: Vol. 2, Article 7.
Available at: https://docs.rwu.edu/nadi/vol2/iss1/7