Recently I read an article about whether or not a museum devoted
to “Racism” was a good idea. Essentially this museum located in Michigan and
called the “Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia”, houses posters, toys,
buttons, and other items from pre-slavery up until modern times in order to
educate the public. It was founded by David Pilgrim, an African America who
feels that the only way to combat intolerance is to show it in its most raw and
vile form.
On the argument in
question – I understand that some people might find these objects, and the
overall theme, offensive. However, I don’t necessarily see this as a bad thing.
Like Pilgrim, I believe that we need to look at past histories with an eye of
scrutiny. Not so that we can be shocked, or even intrigued by what happened in
our nation’s history, but so that we can learn from it. History, if we do not
learn from our past, is doomed to repeat itself. I feel that this is done in
the same way that Holocaust museums are set up. The slogan for survivors is
“Never again,” and it is my belief that we need to look at racism the same way.
For a whole stretch in our nation’s history one group was made to feel less
than human, and it is for that reason that these kinds of museums should be set
up. So that we can look at them and come to an agreement that we will “never
again” let this happen.
I don't see a problem with this. If I had the chance, I would want to check it out, just like I would want to see other museums set up about our history. I think it is a good way to educate people on our past because you are correct, history can repeat itself if we are not careful.
ReplyDeleteLinnzi Wimberley
Slavery is a huge monumental part of our history. Representing it in this kind of way is interesting because it can explain it all in a more clear way for young people to learn from. Seeing slavery makes me sad and can really hurt me deep inside.
ReplyDeleteTony Miliziano