I also understand what you are saying I_L. However, I don't feel superior. Do you think that Americorp and other organizations who help others out are feeling superior and flaunting an 'I'm better than you attitude'? I can't speak for others, but as MM and I have said, we live/work in these areas. I'm only speaking about what I am observing everyday and what I have found through my 2 years of research. And acutally, this thread isn't completely focusing on race as it evolves, but also socio-economic status, which is affecting a lot more than just the black race. And what is emerging now is that maybe it's the American society as a whole.
I am more of a person who sees a problem and wants to try to help others succeed. This is the land of opportunity, at least that's what we're told. I would like to see everyone have equal opportunities through hard work and effort. I'm doing my part to help as a teacher.
You can feel pissed and think that people are making assumptions/generalizations and sit back not worrying about anyone else but yourself or your own race/class. However, couldn't that be seen just as negative on its own merit? I'm in no way attacking you or enforcing any superior air. I'm just wondering why you think the way that you do other than 'too many assumptions'. What exactly have people assumed wrong? If I've made wrong assumptions, I'd like to be corrected or at least be able to explain. Do you think that people should only work with people of their own race and background? I, personally, would appreciate another viewpoint, especially if it doesn't agree because, I don't know about others, but that's how I learn and grow as a person.
Oh dc_dux: Thanks for the information yesterday, we are enrolled in that program. Also, I looked into using rap a few of years ago. However, with the language and situations in most of the songs the kids liked, I didn't want to jeopardize my job. For the past couple years, I taught first grade, so they were into cheesy rap songs that I made up and learned a lot through those for science and math. This year, the sixth graders don't find my songs so cool.
