Discrimination happens. What's the best, most positive way to confront it when i

1. 71

   Elefanzaposted 13 years ago

   Discrimination happens. What's the best, most positive way to confront it when it does?
   
   Is there a technique or way to keep it from continuing to happen and still maintain some level of respect?

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2. 84

   Spongy0llamaposted 13 years ago

   The answer to this question depends on the situation. I have come to the conclusion that people believe as they do based on their own personal experience. Even though a sense of prejudice is wrong and unfair, it is hard to call someone out on it because our views thereof are shaped by our own personal life experiences. We all come with our own unique bias, and it can be very complicated for two people with very strongly opposing perspectives to argue it out. Because of this, I have grown to adopt a policy of live and let live (or, believe and let believe) about such matters. However, this is not to say we should be passive and allow what we believe to be wrong reign unchecked.
   
   Now, if you are facing discrimination first hand, the most important thing is to make sure you can quantify it. You need a basis on which to prove to a third party that you are not being treated fairly. It will not likely be much use arguing with the discriminator in question, who clearly has his or her opinion set.
   
   This is a very nuanced issue, and I have given some of my insights on the matter from a couple angles, but it is very difficult to give a complete and definite answer.

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3. 68

   chepkoluumugulelposted 12 years ago

   Discrimination is indeed alive and well today whether we believe it or not. Having lived in two continents, I have experienced all kinds of discriminations. If it is not about your skin color (colour) it is about nationality, tribe, geographic location, language, accent, educational status, economic status, family, etc. Unfortunately we see this even in entities where people have the same high credentials and qualifications. What I do, I don't let it bother me at all unless it is affecting me psychologically or physically. If not, I let it pass and ask the Lord to handle it.  If the discrimination is really affecting or any other person, I will assess the situation and determine the possible reaction if I bring it up. I will have several plans in place for the next step if it backfired and may face possible repercussion for bringing up the issue. I will use the most polite and acceptable approach while backings up my claims with prove from e.g. recordings, notes, witnesses etc. I will also compile the specifics, all the minor and major details of the act of discrimination, answering 5Ws (what, where, when, why, who) and H (how).  I will follow the appropriate hierarchy until the matter is handled. Discrimination is not acceptable and somebody should stop it because the practice will continue if no one brings it to a stop; but must done so in a very diligent manner.

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