Why should I be ashamed? A rant by a Mexican.

[J a c k]

My two cents: it could be that your friend has something to learn about Mexicans... like they are human beings first and Mexicans second. Sometimes little weird moments like that are opportunities for growth. I like to remain optimistic when confronted with situations like that.

But then again, my optimism has gotten me in trouble sometimes. I guess its worth keeping in mind that you might have gotten a peek at her inner ignorance. If she really has a negative opinion of Mexicans, you don't need to put up with her shit.

But let me end on a positive note. If she is acting funny about your ethnicity, maybe she's just internalized some bad ideas along the way. What better way to fix that then to demonstrate that her preconceived notions are wrong? All of us have misunderstandings of one kind or another. It's nice when people are patient with us in those circumstances, provided we are willing to open our minds and challenge our prejudices.

If she has internalized bad ideas along the way, and knowing me she still generalizes us, I have no intention of demonstrating or proving myself to her. She knows me, my values, my ethics, my character. It’s as if after her reaction, I go out into the world and assume all white people are racist. No white person has to prove to me that they’re not racist. I won’t categorize them as guilty of racism, unless they personally behaved in a racist manner. I expect the same respect in return. If she had met Mexican people that left a bad impression and after knowing me she still hasn’t learned a thing, then that’s too bad. I won’t waste my time making a case for myself. I actually think she felt embarrassed and was hoping nobody heard me. If that’s the case, I won’t waste my time, either.