Ever since the primary school I have been learning that there does not exist any kind of discrimination in the democratic countries. The citizens treat each other equally without any biases of color, caste, creed or religion. As kids, we were taught to understand the concepts of equality and be tolerant of other humans. So far, I had seen only a few discrimnatory actions in India. But I was certain and hopeful that there would not be any such thing in US. I had heard about the dignity of labor and all the good things about respect and appreciation US citizens had for each other. But guess, I was in a utopian world of thoughts.
The other day I borrowed a dvd from the university library and saw the movie "Crash"; only to receive a shock. This was a movie about social and racial tensions which existed even today amongst the natives of the land(the so called whites) and the non-natives(the so called blacks). I had read and heard that there used to exist some problems between the two groups, but was surprised to realize that it was not a thing of the past. It was still prevalent. And I did not have to wait long enough to witness the same peronally. I was in NYC for an interview with E & Y.(P.S: I am yet to write a post on my experiences in NY). On my way from Times Square to LGA airport, I was standing in a line, waiting for a cab. The cab drivers in NYC are mostly indians or the non-whites. I noticed atleast 2 to 3 americans who blatantly refused to get into the cab which was manned by a black person. Some of them looked at the cab drivers with utter disgust. Some made faces and walked away muttering somethings to themselves. I was at complete loss of words. Simply failed to understand that the americans who are known for their politeness and gentleness towards all sorts of foreigners in the country, are so prejudiced against the non-whites. Whatever might be the reasons, but thats how it is ! All I can say is, it still exists !!
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