Perhaps it’s the news I read but has anyone else noticed a huge divide? It seems as though an aura of separation has taken over and very quickly impacted the solidarity of integration in a way like never before.
What I’m saying is, everyone has gone back to their comfort zone. Sides, alliances and affiliations have become much more prevalent in even the smallest communities.
I’m reminded of To Kill A Mockingbird and the manner in which Atticus was received as a traitor for helping the ‘other side’ as opposed to maintaining the divide. He stepped out of his comfort zone, community and cultural bias for the greater good. The moral obligation to himself and his children spurred him on and although the reference is fictional, the message remains clear and impactful.
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. Martin Luther King Jr
I feel that there is fear brought on by recently heightened uncertainty and insecurity in the world . This seems to have caused groups to feel threatened and therefore unite (which is good) and proceed with caution and defence. What this has inadvertently caused however is separation and isolation from other groups who may be considered ‘the enemy’ . Sides are established and enemy lines are drawn. People are uniting with ‘their own’ and although I support unity in every form, I worry that years of working to unifying, accept and integrate people of different cultures, communities and backgrounds is at risk. The inviting riveting blend of individuals that paints the picture of the modern day society at risk.
What is at risk here is decades of hard fought feats for integration, acceptance and equality.
Side note : I crave a remedy. It’s bizarre to see things happen right before you and feel somewhat helpless but writing helps. It’s a platform of expression and sharing things from an individual perspective.
Granted, there is plenty going on around the world and trying to fix all situations and trying to understand why circumstances are the way they are is pointless (sometimes). It’s human nature to identify the problem and try to fix it. I don’t feel it’s a problem to be fixed as such but it is something that must be acknowledged with immediate urgency.
If this growing division continues to steadily increase, memories of the past could very soon be a daunting reality.
If you have any comments about what I’ve said or if you agree /disagree let me know.
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