Discrimination Can Lead to Suicide

Oftentimes, people tend to put prejudice and discrimination in the same category. Because to the lack of knowledge and experience. The definition of discrimination is the behavior or actions, usually negative towards an individual or group of people, especially on the basis of sex/race/social class, etc. Most often a prejudiced person may not act on their feelings at the time or there attitude, therefore someone can be prejudiced towards a certain group but not discriminate against them but by all to some people that doesn’t make sense. What makes them different from the other is the fact that prejudice has to do with the inflexible and irrational attitudes and opinions held by members of one group about another, whereas discrimination refers to behaviors directed against another group. In order for prejudice to be appropriate, there must be a reason behind it. People who are prejudice feel a much stronger need to make quick and firm judgments and decisions in order to reduce ambiguity. One way to explain it, is the need that people feel to try and categorize the world around them even if they don’t realize it.

Discrimination is never never of under no circumstances, it is actually illegal. It is against the Equality Acts and the law, which means you can take action in the civil courts. If someone had a good reason to discriminate they would need to have proof if it was taken to court. The only time discrimination is acceptable is if its positive/good discrimination. Ex. If a hairdresser only gave discounts to senior citizens. Another example is a school that offers classes specifically for women, due to the fact that women are less likely to exercise in a class that has men because they’d feel or have felt uncomfortable. Everywhere we go, we’re being discriminated simply for the color of our skin instead of our character a famous saying from Martin Luther King. Although, you can be prejudiced without acting upon it but still hold harsh feelings towards them. If you don’t like Asians simply because their Asians that’s prejudiced. Discrimination can be brought about for many reasons; ignorance(lack of knowledge), fear of difference, or wanting to be in charge. In most cases, it has to do with fear of difference. Only knowing what you’ve been raised around, your beliefs, and how you view the world.

It is highly unfortunate that prejudices against racial and ethnic minorities exist, and contribute to flourish despite the informed modern mind. Discrimination can be very dangerous, it can lead to depression, low self-esteem, and in some cases can lead to suicide. However, there are some ways that we as African-Americans can stand up against it. We can take action, keep record of it, take the accusation seriously, avoid retaliation, review your rights and seek help/advice from someone. Although, it may not be important to others, its important to us. Prejudice and discrimination has been going on for decades, and still is, but we must do something to change it.

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