Scribbles

I tend to avoid talking about politics on my blog due to its contentious nature.  But in observance of Martin Luther King Jr day, I'd like to share some brief thoughts on race and gender in the US.  Given my immigrant background and fondness for diversity and all things international, this has always been a topic near to my heart, and has certainly contributed to my huge appetite for following politics.  But lately, this topic has gathered a lot of attention from people, beyond the usual cliques of political junkies, power interest groups, and self-serving corporations.  The upcoming presidential election, and the race for winning the party nominations has stirred up a level of excitement and involvement in politics that I have never witnessed.  And I'm loving it.  To have discourse over this, no matter where one stands, will benefit the country and the world.  Whether justified or not, the American people have been perceived as ignorant and culturally retarded.  The headlines and stories are contributing to people becoming more aware of the struggles of minority groups and to put value in the strength of diversity.

Without injecting any grandiose ideas of my own (they're all taken or spoken for), I'd just like to say that I'm happy to see the country making progress towards racial and gender equality.  But don't mistake gratitude for complacency.  We're lagging far behind many other societies, and that's just unacceptable for a nation that has so much influence over the entire world.  And for the young people out there, get out and vote.  You may miss the upcoming primaries, but it's never too early to sign up in time for the November presidential election.  Make a statement for your generation, otherwise risk letting older folks determine your future in all areas of life, from the environment to education.  Do your part in making your society and world better reflect your values.