Proposal

Chyna Davis

AP Language & Composition

Ms. Parham

10/27/2013

It’s All about Fixing Society: A Proposal

“If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place,” are truthful words spoken by Margaret Mead. It’s 2013, and upcoming generations in America still have to be educated on cultural difference; anyone should be able apply themselves and embrace their cultures. Perhaps it’s a step that many individuals in previous generations have missed out on. Homogeneous communities, possibly containing those who’ve not been taught about cultural differences, show it’s a necessary step that future outcomes of ignorance are diminished. I propose reaching out to the parental figures children will be easier to educate a new generation with an understanding of cultural differences.

I propose creating an easy read children’s book that kids will understand visually and mentally. Compared to talk shows and radio broadcasts that would normally tend to an older audience, starting out with the youth is more effective. By seeing a majority of smiley faced children illustrations, as well as traditional wear, cultural foods, social class, and countries, I’m trying to expose the kids to as much differential ties there are in America.  I’ll use parallel structure to narrate the story with exposure to a plethora of lessons teaching that it’s okay to be different and not to target anyone that has a different background from them. If they grow up with these morals then they learn how not to do act in regards to their future.  In this society, many are all quick to judge, stereotype, and it affects younger audiences. For instance, a month ago Miss America winner Nina Davuluri was labeled as an Arab terrorist. This situation wouldn’t necessarily be easy to teach nor normally be used in a children’s book, considering it’s wrong and hurtful. She’s Indian not Arab, but we can teach those kids to do their research, to understand it’s not nice to single people out and call them names based on their backgrounds making it a necessity for the new generation.

To think that I’d be able to change the majority of Connecticut seems idealistic. Though, if I’m able to at least get a handful of parents who approve of the book, and children at Stepping Stones who try to comprehend the overall message that’ll be one less cultural ignorant situation in the world. Stepping Stones has a diverse community. Many nannies, parents, and guardians visit across Connecticut. My goal is to improve the country we live in even though I’m starting out small. It seems like prejudice individuals from earlier generations tend to dress up ignorance the most, especially in homogeneous communities. Comments like Mexicans eat tacos and hop the border, Chinese people speak like CHING CHANG CHONG, and all Caucasians are racist still circulate throughout time. It’s possible many are apathetic towards learning cultural difference or ignorance may play a huge role. They don’t realize what they’re saying or doing will only promote this ignorance more than what it already is.

With America’s cultural differences, my book stands to be a situation saver. I hope to impact children with a sense of empowerment. I want them to feel like they can embrace themselves, as well as learn about other ethnicities depending on if they live in a homogeneous or heterogeneous community. With certain eye popping colors they’ll be sure to take notice to the most important messages and illustrations. Those that have been involved in culture shock as a child, like me, know how different it can be to adjust. I don’t want these children to go through the same situation; hopefully they understand the short, visually impacting, book that gives recognition to many ethnicities other than Caucasian, African American, Hispanic, and Asian.