Integration in America

Segregation. That was a long time ago. Long before my parents'  time, and before my grandparents' time.  And yet each generation has carried the burden of its leftovers. Because there is more to segregation than just it being illegal. Racism is carried through generations, rooted in families, and is still prevalent. It's sterotypes that are encouraged and shared over and over. It's my Hispanic dad saying never date black guys. And my polish grandpa who won't say it, but he's happy im not dating that "Mexican boy" anymore. It's my Mexican grandma against Puertoricans. Nobody wants to be at the bottom. There's always someone else to dislike. Throughout their lives they've been stereotyped and yet here they are, making assumptions about other people. It's going to be a long time until the people of America, whites AND minorities learn to accept integration. We separate in schools, in neighborhoods, in organizations. Because it's easier. It's easier to accept what's been embedded in our minds. And the moment we choose to go the more difficult route is the moment that integration will be a complete reality.