Reflective Essay: The Mushroom Capital Of The World

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Admittingly, I thought I already knew most of what this class would entail. Upon reading the first chapter of the text book, I realized that I could not have been more wrong. I have lived in many places, from the south to Texas to Philadelphia, and have had many jobs and friends that have exposed me to the lives of different ethnic and minority groups. I have also been exposed to aspects of racism through the same experiences. Together, these experiences have influenced my values and beliefs which have made me into the man I am today. I grew up and went to school in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania which is the self-proclaimed mushroom capital of the world. The mushroom farms attract, and employ, many Mexican immigrants looking for …show more content…

People around the world want to be happy and do similar things. Everyone eats, sleeps, laughs, cries and raise families. Perhaps they are done in different ways and for different reasons but, that neither makes them right nor wrong. I believe that anyone can be a good or bad person regardless of race, religion, gender or culture. I believe one’s success should result from hard work and talent not institutional racism. This brings up a point of conflict in my beliefs. I understand the desire for, and purpose of, affirmative action but, am not sure if I support or agree with it. I think I would be upset if I was equally qualified for a job but, did not get it because of my race. l believe people should be judged based on their merit and behavior but, I also appreciate the impact from generations of racism and oppression. I believe people should be able to do what they want so long as it does not harm or infringe on the rights of others. I value the ability to experience other cultures and believe all people should be treated equally. It’s my opinion that racism and bigotry are learned behaviors and appreciate that I was not taught them as a child. When I have children of my own I will teach openness, understanding, and acceptance which are at the core of my value

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