The Grip Racism Has On America

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Recommended: Racial inequality sociology

A good amount of people in the world would like to believe everyone gets along, that the problems of racism and discrimination we once had have been completely erased. This is not always the case. We live in a world so judgemental, that in some ways discrimination is worse than ever. It is worse now, because it is mainly done behind the backs of others. While many would like to argue they are not judgemental or discriminatory at all, this is usually not the case. It has become ingrained in humans’ minds to judge based on looks, and this is completely backwards and messed up.

Tom Robinson is a victim of racism because of his unjust trial(Lee).He is held accountable for something he did not do or have any part of, because of his race. Similar things, however not as extreme, still happen today. Why can people get away with such things? This is still asked often, although it keeps happening. Anyone can suggest we destroy racism and cut it off at the source. The truth is, that cannot be done. Racism is more common than you would think and it isn’t easy to change the minds of millions(Racism).

Obvious racism, such as segregation, is definitely in the past. It is illegal, of course. But maybe the discrete acts do more damage. This is possible because those who seem sincere may secretly be racist, and this behavior can deeply hurt someone. Lee does a terrific job of conveying just how bad racism was in her time. Racism is an injustice overlooked by many, and she brings people back to a time when it could not be overlooked because it was such a frequent and normal occurrence. Nowadays it is not considered uncommon, but definitely still happens(Racism).

Besides the trial of Tom Robinson, there are other instances of racism in the book...

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... a thing of the past, Americans ultimately have to make the decision for themselves rather they will act kind to those who are different, or except everyone regardless.

Works Cited

Arnade, Chris. "America is still a deeply racist country." theguardian.com. Guardian News and Media, 12 Jan. 2014. Web. 1 May 2014. .
"Background on Racial Discrimination." Do Something. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 May 2014. .
Bloom, Harold. Harper Lee's To kill a mockingbird. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1996. Print.
"Racism." - Global Issues. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 May 2014. .
Bloom, Harold. Harper Lee's To kill a mockingbird. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1996. Print.

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