Quote:
Originally posted by omegamcgee
Why do black people have to have a seperate holiday? I mean, I'm not trying to be racist, but I thought that the key to ending racism was realizing we're all just people. Making up a holiday that you can celebrate just because your skin is a certain color seems kind of defeatist and like it would perpetuate racism even more.
I'm sure I'll get called a racist for that statement, but I'm not. Sorry if it offends anyone.
|
I don't think it is a racist statement, it is valid question from your angle of vision.
First of all, ANYONE can participate in the activities surrounding Kwanzaa (Just like hannakuh(sp)).
Secondly, The same question is asked regarding any Cultural Specific Holiday, it is a celebration using a Cultural infuence that is not generally in the mainstream. As little Culture is mainstreamed now (Please don't equate current Hip Hop with Black Culture), There was nothing for Blacks to relate to in 1966.
Now again, I don't "celebrate" Kwanzaa as I feel living the principles daily is more effective. One of the problems of a Country with the roots we have (where mainstream and Culture does not always equate with Equality and Diversity), It is a natural progression to create events and situations where your culture is emphasized.
Threaded Mode