Refuse to be Invisible

In order to solve a problem, you need to attack it head on and not ignore it. Hobson proves that “color blindness” isn’t okay and that in order to attack the problem of racial inequality everyone must be “color brave” not “color blind” being “blind” to the problem does not resolve the racial inequality that is still relevant today it just ignores it, as if it is invisible. Being “color blind” is an easy way out. “Color blindness” isn’t seeing and understanding a person. The color of one’s skin does not define a person but it does have an effect on that person’s identity and that person’s struggles of how they grew up and are treated. Hobson’s story of being assumed as lunch help really resonated with me. She reflects on the experience, but not expecting sympathy. Hobson tells the story to prove a point. The receptionist made the assumption that Hobson and Ford were “help” by the color of their skin. This story isn’t a testament to “color blindness”, but to prove race inequality by assumption. Hobson tells that her mother from early on in life has taught her that others may treat her differently, but that she can still be anything and everything imaginable. Hobson wants everyone to be “color brave” and to be understanding and accepting of all.

Waheed’s tweet, “Never trust anyone who says they do not see color. This means to them, you are invisible” hit home strong on this subject. It left an impactful presence in less than 140 characters. I do think that if someone is “color blind” than the person is basically invisible. You are no longer seeing a person for their entirety. As a person, there are multiple ways to identify yourself and your physical appearance is a part of that. You can’t ignore a person’s skin color and assume to know a person. Knowing a person’s story is more than skin deep, but ignoring the color of their skin is out of ignorance.  

I think that at times I felt invisible and I have cowered within. I have at times been very shy and held my opinions within. I have never really thought of a time where my race was the cause of my invisibility. I think my experiences are quite the opposite. A lot of people are quick to judge based on my race and stereotypes that they think about Asians. I think YIA is a great opportunity that promotes acceptance and conformability. YIA allowing youth to share their stories, practice leadership and create change in their communities helps them become aware of themselves and others. YIA helps youth create a positive change and that is necessary for youth. Giving youth leadership roles at this age help them make positive decisions and give them a chance to dictate their lives in a world where most decisions are usually made for them. When I think of YIA, I think of the quote “Be the change you wish to see in the world”, I think that youth are going up to be huge contributors to the world and giving them the opportunity so early on to learn leadership and get comfortable in their voice and opinions will help them be impacting members of society. YIA is helping their youth to refuse to be invisible.