#7 Blog Post - Kamille
It's February. Notably one of my favorite months of the year. Part of the reason being that this month includes my birthday. The other being that it's Black History Month. I was inspired to write this blog post about BHM because there is only 1 week left of February. Not only this, but I believe it also ties in well with the book we are reading, "Between the World and Me." I find this reading to be interesting because there are parts of it I feel as though I can actually relate to. Living everyday life as a minority definitely allows you to breathe, sleep, and eat in "perspective." As in - I have my eyes constantly open to the world around me and also how the world views myself, a minority.
One section of the book that caught my attention was a small detail relating to when Coates mentioned books supplied by his father, Paul, a research librarian at Howard University. My brother goes to Howard University and to this day, takes every opportunity he can get to say "I go to HU!" He loves the school and his decision to go there while I chose a PWI caused controversy within my family. I always knew my brother would end up at an HBCU because he always connected strongly with those who were black while I tended to struggle. Although I grew up my whole life in predominantly white institutions, my friend group continuously was diverse. It may had to do with my geographical location (California) where there is every single race/ethnicity represented. Or the fact that I genuinely enjoyed knowing people from different cultures because they could share their stories with me and I could share mine. I strongly value these conversations.
Both of these factors popped into my head while reading the book and allowed me to reflect on my own experiences. Currently, I love how socially aware Northeastern is as a school. Of course it could be better, but technically any college/university could make room for improvement. Also, this institution makes an effort to include everyone from different racial backgrounds which is appreciated. The campus has resource centers such as the "John D. O'Bryant African-American Institute", "Latinx Student Cultural Center", and the "Asian American Center." All are great ways to add to inclusivity regarding the different minority groups that exist on campus.
Nonetheless, I love this month because it allows me to be proud of who I am. There has definitely been times where I've wondered, "what if I was blank race instead of the one that I actually am?" I hate that the old me used to ask this question, because now, I embrace who I am. My background is what makes me ME and I wouldn't change it or trade it for the world. Of course it can be hard growing up around those who still believe racism should exist (even when it's 2020). But, all I can do is appreciate the person I am and celebrate others too. We were all made beautiful and unique, so embrace it!
One section of the book that caught my attention was a small detail relating to when Coates mentioned books supplied by his father, Paul, a research librarian at Howard University. My brother goes to Howard University and to this day, takes every opportunity he can get to say "I go to HU!" He loves the school and his decision to go there while I chose a PWI caused controversy within my family. I always knew my brother would end up at an HBCU because he always connected strongly with those who were black while I tended to struggle. Although I grew up my whole life in predominantly white institutions, my friend group continuously was diverse. It may had to do with my geographical location (California) where there is every single race/ethnicity represented. Or the fact that I genuinely enjoyed knowing people from different cultures because they could share their stories with me and I could share mine. I strongly value these conversations.
Both of these factors popped into my head while reading the book and allowed me to reflect on my own experiences. Currently, I love how socially aware Northeastern is as a school. Of course it could be better, but technically any college/university could make room for improvement. Also, this institution makes an effort to include everyone from different racial backgrounds which is appreciated. The campus has resource centers such as the "John D. O'Bryant African-American Institute", "Latinx Student Cultural Center", and the "Asian American Center." All are great ways to add to inclusivity regarding the different minority groups that exist on campus.
Nonetheless, I love this month because it allows me to be proud of who I am. There has definitely been times where I've wondered, "what if I was blank race instead of the one that I actually am?" I hate that the old me used to ask this question, because now, I embrace who I am. My background is what makes me ME and I wouldn't change it or trade it for the world. Of course it can be hard growing up around those who still believe racism should exist (even when it's 2020). But, all I can do is appreciate the person I am and celebrate others too. We were all made beautiful and unique, so embrace it!
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