My family enjoys a privileged lifestyle. We are white, educated, and belong to the middle class. Despite facing a few minor challenges in my childhood and my partner’s struggle with dyslexia, we have not encountered significant hardships. Our children are raised in a community lacking in racial and socioeconomic diversity. They are fortunate to enjoy good health and countless opportunities, mirroring the lives we lead. They have yet to experience any substantial struggles.
While I am grateful for our circumstances, I am also concerned about our family’s capacity to empathize with the diverse experiences of others. It is all too easy to remain sheltered, oblivious to the struggles faced by many. This bubble provides comfort and safety, but it can also foster a false sense of superiority. It’s tempting to dismiss the challenges we hear about in the news or read online as exaggerated or distant.
In my twenties, a conversation with an Asian American friend profoundly impacted my perspective. He reflected on the irony of his living situation, sharing that the apartment he occupied had once been used to detain Japanese Americans during World War II. My initial thoughts were scattered, focused on trivial matters, but when he explained the historical significance of that space, I felt a wave of shame wash over me.
How could I have overlooked such a significant aspect of history? I realized then that I had unconsciously chosen to ignore the painful realities of our past. Growing up in a homogenous environment, devoid of any Japanese American friends or connections to that history, I had not fully engaged with these crucial narratives. It was a moment of awakening, pushing me to understand that history is subjective and that it is our responsibility to listen to all voices.
Since then, I have made a conscious effort to ask deeper questions and to remain attentive to the world around me. I recognize that my sheltered life may leave me unaware of many people’s struggles, yet I strive to take note of new information as it arises. Importantly, I am also imparting these lessons to my children. At the ages of 9 and 7, we have already delved into challenging discussions, including topics like internment camps. I tailor these conversations to their maturity levels, ensuring they are appropriate for their understanding.
Our nation, while remarkable, is not without its flaws. It’s vital for children to grasp this reality, fostering a respect for their country while acknowledging its historical mistakes. I want them to grow into informed citizens who are aware of their surroundings and unafraid to inquire about the injustices that persist.
We plan to visit the Amache internment camp, located just a few hours from home. This trip may not be the lightest family outing, but it is undoubtedly significant. My history-loving 9-year-old will likely be fascinated, while my compassionate 7-year-old may find it overwhelming. Regardless of their reactions, this visit will help them engage with reality more fully.
In conclusion, teaching our children about the complexities of injustice is crucial. It equips them with the understanding needed to navigate our world and advocate for a better future. For those interested in expanding their knowledge on related subjects, check out this excellent resource on artificial insemination and learn more about fertility solutions at Make a Mom. You can also explore the 21-piece at-home insemination kit as a comprehensive guide.
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