Last week, I discussed through this column our responsibility to our university.
I thank you for your consideration. I’ve received positive feedback from many who took it to heart.
It is for this reason that I would like to move on now to another step in the ladder of respect. I view this topic as the most important: respect for people.
While this is a broad ideal, I would like to focus specifically on respect for people of different races.
We are all aware of racial stereotypes and the ongoing struggle to free ourselves of them. What we may not realize is that often, the racism we express is unintentional.
One doesn’t need to be a member of the KKK to manifest his/her prejudices.
Our attitude often controls our reactions, and if we succumb to inaccurate beliefs, they will be shown in our response to the respective people.
It is no secret that in recent years, we have had an incredible influx of Mexican immigrants in this area.
It has grown so much, in fact, that it has been necessary in several places to make special accommodations for them.
For example, signs at restaurants are bilingual. Many agencies have had to hire translators and interpreters to better overcome the obvious language barrier.
I have heard tales of resentment far and wide, and would simply like to offer an alternative explanation to what you may have heard.
What many people may not understand is why they are here. Some of the immigrants have come to this area seeking work because the economic situation in some areas of Mexico does not provide such opportunities.
Because little work is available, men with families to support are forced to seek employment elsewhere.
They come to the United States to perform a variety of tasks, mainly farm work and hard labor.
The men work during the crop seasons and send money back home to support their families until they return temporarily, only to come back when the next season arrives.
I realize that there are exceptions to the rule, not all Mexicans in this area are here illegally or for selfish reasons.
As a matter of fact, I think it is very noble that a man would sacrifice so much to maintain his family, which is an asset not often found in our culture.
ETSU has recently begun a program through a grant from the Kellogg Foundation that has changed my views and touched the lives of nearly everyone involved.
The department of foreign languages now has a hotline now that is advertised as a resource for Hispanics who need interpretation services.
People may call 439-6897, and the department will send a Spanish student with them to the doctor, social service agency or wherever they need to go, and the student will help interpret for free.
This free service has been incredible.
The experience received has been more valuable than any classroom activity could be, but at the same time, it has made us acutely aware of the stereotypes of our friends and neighbors.
Please keep in mind that we are all humans, and we all deserve respect.
No one is more or less worthy of respect based on the color of their skin or the language that they speak.
We are the next generation of professionals who will someday be in contact with people. We have the power to change ideas that cause so much pain.
A simple “hello,” an acknowledgement of life, can be such a powerful thing.
If you would like more information about the Kellogg program, call 439-6897.

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