<p>Hearing the midwest described as ‘racist’ makes me sad. I also think untrue. The rural and small town folk I care for in my regional hospital, along side the black nursing assistant on my floor, have had little exposure to other races. These people, while not possessed of the multicultural background of many on this board, have good hearts, and treat all fairly. Occasionally they are taken aback, and on very rare occasion the nursing assistant calls someone on her role when mistaken for a housekeeper. But I have seen no incidents of racism , just awkwardness at times. One of our top surgeons is also black, and again, I’ve never heard a word from these rural folk suggesting anyone has ever had a problem with it. </p>
<p>I think that most people in this country have a desire to do the best thing possible when it comes to race relations, create an equal society. They may lack exposure, and be awkward around people of other races, and cultures. A human tendencies to distrust what one does not know, doesn’t necessarily translate to racism. There are also what I see as very hard separate issues of culture, immigration, and socio economics. Unfortunately these issues get tied up with race in this country. The above postings about high attaining African American students exemplify just one of these issues. We as a society want these kids to do well. </p>
<p>In my overseas travels, I’ve come across all sorts of racism. Asia, at least when I lived there had quite the pecking order. I hope some of that is dissolving and I see a change in the young ESL students I host. What I have come to appreciate about this country is the positive intent, not present in all parts of the world. But how to get there is quite the topic of discussion!</p>
<p>Now yesterday, I had the great fortune to shake the hand of someone who I hope has a chance to heal some of this rift-Barak Obama. Am still tingling. I live in an economically disparate neighborhood, and some of us were rubbernecking as he arrived for a fundraising event at a nearby house. He headed right across the street to shake hands with the neighbors and admire the baby next door. A thrilling moment. But more seriously, as the words on this thead are echoing in my brain as I go through my day, I hope he is given a chance, as it would be so good for this country and the world to have what he represents as president. Policy wise, there is much to debate between all the candidates. But the coming together of races and culture that is his background gives hope.</p>