A Problem of Discrimination in America Essay Example

fostering a democratic society. The Civil Rights Movement gained momentum in the USA following the 1954 Supreme Court decision in Brown v.

The ruling in the Board of Education case, which rejected segregated forms of the education system in America, gave rise to democratic and activist groups like the Congress of Racial Equality, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. These organizations aimed to eradicate racial segregation under the Jim Crow system and its consequences, including societal class disparities. African Americans responded by participating in protests, boycotts, and voter registration campaigns with the goal of achieving a society that is both free and democratic. Through nonviolent direct action primarily carried out through street demonstrations, marginalized groups such as Black Americans effectively fought against racism in America.

Dr. Martin Luther King and other African leaders spearheaded a movement rooted in Christian teachings to fight against racial discrimination and class disparities (Janken, 2016). They utilized several tactics to tackle the challenges posed by segregation, including organizing sit-ins at racially segregated restaurants and protests in public spaces reserved for whites only. In addition, they conducted protest marches, prayer rallies, and worked towards increasing black voter registration. Regrettably, these peaceful methods encountered opposition from authorities, leading to acts of violence and oppression perpetrated by groups like the KKK. However, Dr. King's determination remained unwavering.

According to Janken (2016), Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1969, but it was crucial for the African American community to take a more proactive approach in addressing the issue. Legislation was seen as the ultimate tool to end discrimination, and as society progressed, democracy and social equity became necessary foundations. This led various political

leaders to work towards ending discrimination. The politics of segregation at the time resulted in two political parties: 'The Democrats' and 'The Republicans'. The former supported white conservative principles while the latter advocated for change and an end to racial prejudice and all forms of discrimination in America.

In the 1960s, legislative laws dismantled Jim Crow's segregated laws enforced (Marger, 2011).

Racism and class divisions persist in American society, demonstrated by the racial divide in the country's political system. Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, has generated controversy by endorsing racially and class-based sentiments during his campaigns. This position has received considerable backing from white communities. Additionally, despite commemorating the 62nd anniversary of the influential Brown v. Board of Education case in 2016, racial discrimination remains pervasive within the American education system.

A recent survey conducted in K-12 public schools in America reveals a growing trend of racial segregation within these educational institutions (Scott, 2016). The survey shows that the number of students from ethnic minorities attending racially and socioeconomically isolated schools has significantly increased to over 20 million, compared to 14 million in 2001 (Scott, 2016). Additionally, the report emphasizes that these schools primarily catering to minority populations face inadequate funding and disproportionate disciplinary measures (Scott, 2016). Nevertheless, efforts aimed at ending racial segregation have brought numerous benefits to Black and other minority groups across America. Consequently, social equity, civil liberties, as well as various rights and freedoms are now equally practiced by all Americans irrespective of their race or socioeconomic status.

Moreover, the election of the first African American president from the Republican party signifies America's progress beyond racial biases and social disparities, embracing equality in

the integration of all races for the collective welfare (Miah, 2016). This presidential election is a fulfillment of Dr. King's vision (Miah, 2016). Furthermore, legislative measures have been enacted and fully enforced to ensure the safeguarding of rights for all marginalized groups in America (Miah, 2016). These laws have played a role in protecting minority communities such as LGBT individuals comprising both Black and White members. Nonetheless, despite these advancements, there remains unfinished work in eradicating racism from American history. The consequences of racism persist on a daily basis because history is enduring and healing requires time.

Gender and/or Sexuality in America

In American society, gender discrimination has historically been pervasive.

The aim of attaining equality for both genders contributed to substantial transformations in gender roles and biases against women following World War II. Previously, men would discriminate against women based on their capabilities, resulting in their confinement to domestic tasks and objectification while men undertook employment. This prevalent male dominance led to discrimination, subjugation, mistreatment, and unequal remuneration for women at work. During the 1950s, American women persevered in advocating for enhanced salaries and equal job prospects for all (Anitha & Pearson, 2014).

Historically, specific roles in the public sector were traditionally given to women, such as secretaries, cleaners, and typists. However, the implementation of the Equal Pay Act of 1970 aimed to combat workplace discrimination against women. This legislation sought to ensure that women received equal pay and fair treatment compared to men, thus promoting their ability to work (Anitha, 2014). The feminist movement played a pivotal role in empowering women who faced gender-based discrimination. While significant strides have been made in providing equal job opportunities and

increasing female representation in leadership positions, the issue of violence against women remains a concern within American households.

In America, there have been recent instances of domestic violence resulting in the death of women. In 2005, a report stated that over 1,000 women were killed by their partners due to domestic violence (Valenti, 2010). Additionally, the Justice Department reported around 182,000 cases of assault against women in 2008 (Valenti, 2010), which represented a significant increase of 70% since 1993 (Valenti, 2010). Although later proven flawed, the study's methodology suggested there were about 1 million cases. These statistics demonstrate that despite legislative laws and acts aimed at ensuring fair treatment and gender equality, women in American society continue to endure physical abuse, rape, and other forms of violent atrocities.

Although women such as Oprah Winfrey and Hillary Clinton are labeled as feminists, they have actively battled against gender inequality. Currently, Clinton is running for President under the Democratic Party. Women have faced discrimination in education and employment but have persevered in fighting for their rights (Valenti, 2010). The pursuit of independence has even led to divorces among women. However, a significant portion of women still endure extreme poverty, further reinforcing discrimination within American society. Additionally, there is an inadequate representation of women in politics compared to men.

Although feminist movements exist, women in America still lack sufficient representation in society. The evidence is seen in the fact that only 17% of Congressional seats are occupied by women. Sexism remains pervasive and cannot be fully addressed solely by these movements. Chauvinism continues to prevail across America, even in areas where feminists actively strive to combat it. Instances include musicians engaged

in disputes escalating into domestic violence or politicians and business leaders perpetrating assaults against their wives.

The ongoing problem of motherhood is discouraging as women are still filing for divorce every day because of violence against them. In brief, although laws have been put in place to protect women from being treated unfairly, there is still a significant amount of male dominance in American society. Therefore, it is crucial to implement additional actions in order to combat gender discrimination and sexism, without solely depending on feminist movements.

Conclusion

Discrimination still exists in America despite historical instances. Present-day American society still holds remnants of this bitterness, which can be observed in various areas such as the workplace, political arena, families, and treatment of marginalized groups like women. However, legislation has been implemented to address discrimination's effects and ensure freedom and social equity. Eradicating negative aspects of history will take time as history greatly influences society. Nonetheless, there is hope for a future where America eliminates its history of classism, racism, gender discrimination, and sexism to establish a society that values equality and social equity.

References

• Anitha, S., ; Pearson, R. (2014). Striking women-striking out. feminist review, 108, 61-70.
• Janken,
  K. (2016). The Civil Rights Movement:1919-1960s,Freedom's Story,
  TeacherServe®, National Humanities Center.Nationalhumanitiescenter.org.Retrieved7June2016,
  fromhttp://nationalhumanitiescenter.org/tserve/freedom/1917beyond/essays/crm.htm
• Marger,M.N.(2011).
  Raceandethnicrelations:Americanandglobalperspectives.

Cengage Learning.

Race and Class. Retrieved 7 June 2016, from https://www.solidarity-us.org/node/2026