Editorial: Let’s continue to eliminate discrimination

With the recent historical marker dedication in Charles City, it serves as a grim reminder that we still have a long way to go in life when it comes to discrimination.

As humans, we are tasked to work together as one in order to make this world a better place. Despite our disagreements, there are times where obstacles can be overcome with teamwork. Unfortunately, there are some experiences of hatred for unjust reasons that exist today. Ranging from race to sexual orientation to financial status to having a disability, the separation gap continues to exist. Even the thought about someone being mistreated upsets me because some of the mitigating factors that differentiate people can’t be controlled. The range of hierarchy that some people bestow upon themselves when it comes to judging others because they don’t have the characteristics or qualities as themselves is no reason to cast off another person. Discrimination is taught, not inherited.

One thing I can say about Charles City and New Kent County is that during my tenure as a reporter, I have only encountered personal discrimination one time in the counties, and that took place during a court case. But that one time really hurt because that reminded me that even in this area, there are people who still stand by their beliefs and thoughts of superiority over others.

However, I am blessed to know that in Charles City and New Kent that many of the citizens speak and talk with others in manners that are respectful. But we can’t just keep these qualities to ourselves. We need to work and guide the young generations to love and care for each other. Today, many people in the younger generations are bullied or cast out because of who they are. That separation has ramifications that unfortunately includes self-harm and/or death. As our future leaders, they must learn to love and listen before they lead.

In conclusion, knowledge and love will need to triumph over anything that is stacked in front of us when it comes to discrimination. There is no justifiable reason to dislike someone because of their beliefs, looks, or societal status. Let’s understand one another and build relationships, not bury them.