Have you ever thought about what it would be like to get someone’s perspective on racism? Through a Q&A, racism is told from a male and female perspective.  The interviewees, who choose to remain anonymous, answer the questions that have been asked for a while within the BLM community.

Systemic racism has been embedded in the United States for a long time. From what you’ve seen in the media, what is an example of a time you’ve heard about systemic racism? 

Male: It’s everywhere.

Female: Growing up in school, you can see the clear differences in the social classes. Your viewpoints are different. Racial perspectives are not treated with the same opportunities. 

Some of the arguments regarding defunding the police are because the police department is given military-grade weapons. What are your thoughts about defunding the police department? 

Male: There is no need to defund the police. The weapons are not needed if you sell them to the people. Think about this: if people really wanted control, they could. The entire situation is nonsense. I don’t want to be around it, I don’t want to be a part of it. 

Female: I disagree. There are riots that are turned violent by the police. I understand that there are precautions that are needed to be taken if violence ensues, but the police’s job is to protect, not take away from the offensive.

By 1860, America had 4 million slaves worth a total of $3 billion of today’s currency. What are your thoughts on reparations? 

Male: It should have happened a long time ago. We should have been given what we were promised. Anything that is expensive, like this house, should be for free. We weren’t allowed to read, but other cultures were allowed to go to school. We should be going to school for free, or for half. If I wanted to start a business, it would be heavily discounted. When it comes down to culture, each race’s oppression should keep the attention on themselves, what fight is. I care about my people. Once you worry about everyone else’s fight, you lose sight of your own.

Female: I feel that when it comes to that, every other race that was oppressed has gotten their justice for what was done to their people. They got justice for what they had endured. But when it comes to African American people, we are expected to get over it. We are never going to get it. I don’t foresee it being in our lifetime. When you think about it, all races have been divided from one another. 

Some say that the HBCU’s openness to more diverse students is destroying what the colleges stand for. Thoughts? 

Male: People try to use segregation and use it as a bad thing. But it gives more of an opportunity for black kids to come and be together. It’s not a bad thing. It gives an opportunity because it’s a safe place where people alike can be with one another. If someone who is white wants to attend,, that’s fine, but it’s not designed for them.

Female: I understand the want to diversify and give other racially ambiguous people the opportunity, but it’s a historically black college. It was made to be a school that caters to black colleges. I feel the colleges need to be left alone, granted I am a very inclusive person, there should be something our people have to use as a part of our history/accomplishments. 

Based on personal opinion, which gender faces more struggles in terms of racism? 

Male: Both. 

Female: As much as black men are being beaten down and shot, the same happens to women as well. Women are out on the front lines too. My opinion is that black women are the most vulnerable and unprotected, regardless of their strength. Women are also abused and fetishized. We are majorly unprotected. The reason why there are so many “independent black women” is because we aren’t protected. 

If black children were taught more about their history in schools, do you think that our history would have changed?

Male: It would make a big difference. It would give self-awareness and empowerment, it would prove a lot. I’m past the point of talking about slavery. Things have to move forward. When you have that knowledge, you control the narrative. Knowledge is power.

Female: Agreed. It gives people a sense of empowerment. It lets them know that they are worth more than just slavery.

Should owning weapons for protection (bulletproof vests) be illegal? 

Male: It shouldn’t be illegal. Being seen with a weapon with my complexion is seen as racially motivated, but in another person’s hands, it’s different. It’s not fair. 

Female: It shouldn’t be illegal. It’s unfortunate that some people feel they need this. The truth is, we’re at war, a racial war. You should have the right to protect yourself. 

Name a time when you’ve been stereotyped. 

Male: I can’t say that I have. I’ve always been considered the “non-threatening black guy.” 

Female: Being angry at a public place is hard. There’s always that stereotype of the “angry black woman”. You can’t have a bad day without being seen as aggressive.