Racism in Advertising

             Being a young white girl from a fortunate family in the 21st century, I know my response to the topic of racism can seem narrow-minded and uninformed.  In fact, that’s exactly what it is.  The stories in history books and tales by word of mouth are the extent of my knowledge of racism and prejudice.  I have never lived in a time where slavery was the common way, and even if I had, it is said to be that people of my origin were the ones causing so much pain.  As much as people in this generation try to sympathize with the victims, we will never fully know what they have gone through and their daily struggles.  Some even joke about it as a thing of the past of little importance.  The truth is, it is important, but we will never be able to say “I get it.”

                I was surprised when the Aunt Jemima ad was brought up.  We’ve been buying this type of syrup for years, and I’ve never realized that we were indirectly supporting the stereotype of African Americans being servants.  It kind of makes me angry to think that I overlooked something so simple, right in front of me.

                Although I can’t fully understand what people went through, I think it’s better to say I wish I knew more than to say I know all there is to know and I’m sorry.  I have massive amounts of respect for equality, and I have been raised to accept everyone in hopes that everyone will accept me in return.  I live in a time where racism is overlooked and misunderstood, and I’m not afraid to say I don’t truly understand it.