When you think of Canada, a racism problem isn’t what comes to mind for many.
Especially when it compares to other parts of the world, particularly our neighbours to the south which seem to be going through their own resurgence of problems.
But, we are not immune to the problems. We are currently in the throws of realizing that.
The current situation involving Justin Trudeau are a true testament to what we don’t even know we don’t know.
Is Justin Trudeau a racist? Honestly, far from it. Did he do something totally stupid, thoughtless and hurtful? Absolutely.
We have to be able to admit to ourselves and others and in a place of cultural importance that we have a blind spot. We don’t know what we don’t know. But, ignorance cannot be an excuse anymore.
Just like in a car, not checking our blind spots can lead to disaster. It can be life changing, all because we make a simple mistake not to be mindful of our surroundings.
Here’s where it gets tricky. We have to be willing to admit that we have this blind spot and not react negatively when we are called out on behavior. It is okay for us to use it as a learning experience, not a point of shame. We have to react from a place of humility, and admit to the blindspots a lot of us have. If we are willing to come together and learn, we can fully celebrate the melting pot that is Canada.
We all have different cultures, and all have things to be proud of, and things not to be proud of. It’s in the humility and the acceptance that we can find a true balance, together.
After all, there’s only one race, the human race. But, the world is full of beautiful, extreme, colourful, expressive cultures that deserve to be respected, no matter what.
Challenge yourself. Accept more, learn something new, be open to admitting faults, downfalls, and blindspots. That’s what can make this world a more understanding and cohesive place.
- Abby Cameron
