SOLVING PROBLEMS

11/18/2014

HERE YOU GO, OLIVIA.

Olivia Grant Yonkman

11/18/2014 09:47:09 am

Hi, guys! It's me! Olivia Y! So, today I want y'all to respond to my blog just like you would respond to Mr. Husband's. Then, as usual, please respond to someone else's post...other than my own. Okay? Okay. (I couldn't resist the TFIOS reference.)

I will start off my telling you that, during the Gilded Age, corruption was a huge part of society. City governments would become extremely corrupt because politicians began to take bribes that desperate job-seekers offered. This corruption was what caused citizens to want to reform their government. These reformers formed a group call the Progressives and anyone who was in that group was a Progressive, obviously. This group was very successful in making changes to improve American life between 1898 and 1917. This period was then called the Progressive Era. During this time, 1901 specifically, Theodore Roosevelt became President. TR was a strong supporter of Progressive ideas. The Progressives were necessary because they helped America to get back on its feet with acts like the Pure Food and Drug Act which makes it mandatory for the ingredients of food and drugs to be labeled on the package.

Some problems in society still exist today such as the lack of employment, lack of access to healthcare, lack of access to education, racism, sexism, homophobia, gun violence, and mental illness. This is just to name a few, so as you can see, though America may seem great, there are some serious problems that need to be fixed and a lot of them have to do with getting over yourself and accepting the diversity of this country. We are all different and we need to, instead of discriminating against each other, we need to work together and accept each other's differences. I know this kind of sounds like I'm auditioning for a beauty pageant, but I'm just speaking from the heart.

So, what is a problem in society that you're passionate about? How do you think you can solve it? Comment and tell me what you think. Remember that this can be a problem in America in general or just in your neighborhood. Any who, have fun! I can't wait to see what y'all got to say. Peace!

-Olivia Yonkman

Musah S. link

11/18/2014 10:30:30 am

Homophobia. That's my topic. I can not explain how unbelievably annoying and close-minded homophobia and any hate directed at a is. This topic is near and dear to me as I've seen homophobia, been a victim of homophobia, and even been accused of homophobia because of the preconceptions people have about black people and not being gay. (That was a loaded sentence.) I'm writing this completely from the heart and I'm sorry if it's a little rambly.

Homophobia is based off of the still widely held belief that being gay isn't normal. Well, the LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual *The list is way longer tbh*) community is minority, but sexuality is normal and I feel that just because people don't understand the sexuality of others. I come from a very traditional *Pentecostal* African-American family so they're not super enthusiastic about my sexuality/stance on sexuality, but I've come to terms with that. There's a cycle of gay-hate and cynicism in this country and it goes unnoticed (Google Westboro Baptist Church for a prime example, or just Google homophobia and you're bound to find something recent.)

Homophobia permeates our society and our stereotypes are reaffirmed constantly in the media by comedic and overly flamboyant portrayals of gay men (and hyper-masculine portrayals of lesbian women). We, and I mean America, tend to have a very conservative, un-progressive view of the gay community and it needs to be broken.

We need to be educated about the history of minorities of all types to be more well-rounded for the 21st century. When we come to terms that we're all human, we're all born with basic human rights, and we're all entitled to happiness, maybe we can achieve a more accepting view of one another, regardless of sexuality, race, gender, political party, social status, number of likes, and size of car.

I'll probably come up with more arguments and update this as needed, I could go on forever about injustices like racism, anti-feminism, and gun violence, but for the sake of my fingers not falling off from typing, I'll spare the novel...

Olivia Grant Yonkman

11/18/2014 10:43:24 am

Musah, I totally agree with you on that. Pride, the kind of celebration of the LGBTQ community in Rhode Island is, and has been, my favorite holiday since I moved to Rhode Island. I've been int he Pride parade for three years straight with my church. My parents, as pastors, also supported making same sex marriage legal in RI about two years ago and I was there when the governor signed the document. Sexuality equality is also something I hold close to my heart and I'm glad you brought it up. As most of y'all know, my grandfather was gay and he ended up married to a woman and having four children for half of his adult life. He felt as though he could not admit that he was gay because in his faith gays were looked down upon. Anyways, I appreciate your ramblings. I think they're fabulous.

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 11:04:52 am

I'm back from class. Very powerful post. How do you propose to change peoples perceptions? What are some definitive, methodical action steps that you would take to achieve sexuality equality?

Musah S.

11/18/2014 11:11:46 am

To Olivia thanks for being an ally and the story about your grandfather was very touching, I honestly was close to tears because I think of the persecution, "conversion therapy", and abandonment some people and even people or age have to endure. This honestly has been one of my favorite prompts, Bravo.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 11:16:04 am

To Mr. Husband I think it all starts with re-educating the next generation. Some people are stuck in their ways and we, as a country, should just say "If you don't like gay marriage don't get gay married." We should legalize gay marriage and try to inform people about sexuality and gender identity, but at the end of the day we can't really change people's opinions.

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 11:22:16 am

But how? How do we even begin to approach the re-educating of up and coming generations? Hypothetically speaking, you are a PROGRESSIVE and I am a rather influential philanthropist. believe in your passion and I am willing to exhaust whatever money and resources it takes for you to fulfill your vision - but I need to see a plan. I see the need, but how would you approach solving the problem. You may not know... I do not know… But you have to try something.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 11:33:24 am

Agreed, Musah. There is a lot of hate against homosexual people. People use words like "gay" (not meaning happy) for things like clothing. They are using it so it means stupid not realizing they are making fun of homosexual people. It's basically calling homosexual people stupid. They even made words to offend homosexuals even more, which is really messed up. They use the "F" word on people they hate or on people they are stupid. The word is extremely offensive and people joke around with it like the "n" word.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 11:49:50 am

So true Allen, and Mr. Husband I would try to start an social media featuring gay celebrities and allies initiative. It would be relatively easy and with the reach that social networking has (it practically dictates our choices, albeit very subtly) I feel that it could change a lot about the way we view "gayness." We could even include great contributions LGBT (and other people who don't identify as straight) have made to society like Pop Art (Warhol), The Mona Lisa (DaVinci), Ellen, Voguing, That's So Raven, Michelangelo, Eleanor Roosevelt, Anderson Cooper.........

Sergio Liranzo

11/18/2014 11:53:10 am

Musah you're so brave for speaking out for yourself and you showed how you actually had empathy for situations like this. I agree with you because people use words like "gay" to describe things that they do not like, but do they really know what gay means? It means happy! But they do not mean it in that way obviously, which is really stupid to me, but i feel you bro.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 11:58:37 am

Honestly all these comments and affirmations really show me what's special about CP and I'm so proud to be part of such a progressive group that isn't going to grow up homophobic and at least be thoughtful about the differences we all have. I'm probably being over-emotional but I don't have the most supportive parents and knowing that my peers care about issues like this brings me so much hope. At the end of the day though we have our differences I'm so proud to go to CP and have the support at school that I do : )

Faye

11/18/2014 12:03:55 pm

This post is beautiful. In my opinion, it all comes down to Labels. We get all worked up over whether we're gay, straight, bi, pan, everything, when not everyone even conforms to those specific identities. People are people, no matter who we love (or who we don't love), and I think that in a society where there aren't "straight people" and "gay people" but just PEOPLE then maybe we can see each other for who we are, rather than what we're stereotyped by.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:06:55 pm

Fanks Faye, We all just people at the end of the day : )

Nicole Cepeda-Merhi

11/18/2014 12:19:44 pm

I'm so proud of you for embracing who you are. Your post is very powerful and impacting. I'm amazed at how brave you are and how you face the problems thrown your way. Remember that although you may not have the support needed sometimes, we all love and accept you for who you are. :) But on a side note, everyone should read this post..it's really important!!

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:21:56 pm

Thanks @Nicole : )

VeneciaM

11/18/2014 12:55:29 pm

You put a lot of mind and poured your heart out into this post,you spoke truthfully and stated many facts and examples to get me and many others to completely agree with you!I can't relate to you but I can certainly see were you are coming from.I know many people who are agianst,bisexuals,gay,and lesbians,and i'm sure that if they were to read this post they would quickly change there minds and forget all of the comments made by others agianst any homosexuals.I'm sure this has touched others like it has touched me.

Olivia Pereira

11/18/2014 01:45:19 pm

Musah, I love you because you really are so brave to speak about this topic in such a raw and honest manner. Good job. I was going to write about this, but I read yours and you took the words right out of my mouth. Homophobia bothers me so much and makes me honestly want to lock myself in a closet. We live in the United States, we should have the right to love who we love. No matter if it is the same sex, different, or even both, who cares? When this homophobia situation is over I will have such a relief. Once again, we are all so proud of you and love you. You have all the support needed. We admire the confidence you have in yourself to write this without BUMPER STICKER...ING it. Your deep emotion about this subject is actually quite heart warming. *CHROMEBOOK HUG!*

Musah to Olivia

11/18/2014 01:50:39 pm

Gracias, I love how this post brought us, as a class, so much closer together. I honestly love you guys so much even though I may not always talk to everyone and I know how that sounds but I have a great deal of respect for all of you guys and it was underscored by reading this. Your love, care, and honesty make me so proud.

*insert "heart snap" vine here*

Lili Sanzo

11/18/2014 02:46:28 pm

Well, Musah, I think the class has said most of what I wanted to say, but I'll just restate it. I love how passionate and forthcoming you are on this topic but not only that, I think that the most beautiful thing you said went something like 'at the end of the day, we're all just human'. I love this because it is so true, no matter what, you should never be judged by things that are your own beliefs or by material things.

Musah link

11/18/2014 10:37:31 am

Great prompt, it was really fun to write about! :)))

Olivia G. Yonkman

11/18/2014 10:44:31 am

Thanks. :)

Clare Tyler

11/18/2014 10:55:45 am

I always thought there was a lot of prejudice or stereotypes against women everywhere. I'm kind of used to hearing it used in the media, but I shouldn't be. I listen to Kanye West sometimes and he always talks about girls being hot or something. There's a lot of the "b" word. Also, the main reason I don't like Rihanna, Nicki Minaj or Beyonce is because they are playing right into those stereotypes because that is what is expected of them. A lot of female pop artists do something to their hair and wear tight, short clothing. They're trying to impress people by looking pretty. No, you impress people by your voice not looks, Beyonce. I also heard that women in the workplace aren't getting paid as much as men. I think I was watching Sixty Minutes one night and a woman CEO, was talking about how she's more successful than some other guy CEOs but wasn't recognized or paid as much. The other thing that annoys me is when someone tries to imitate a girl or says, "That's for girls." Like Barbies or something. A lot of girls hate Barbies and makeup. I've only met one girl in my entire life who's crazy about makeup and Barbies. I'm not kidding, only one. When people imitate girls, sometimes they use a high voice or high pitched scream to make fun of the girl even though she doesn't sound like that at all. This has been going on for a while. I don't know how fix it. Except tell people who stereotype girls to shut up.

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 10:59:15 am

I'm sending you a digital high five, Clare.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 11:08:18 am

This is actually so true and I get your argument but I have sort of mixed feelings about women in music, I have a little bias but I think the dressing up really is about confidence, and some women in music are empowering it's case by case *imho*, that's just my 2 cents. #Feminist

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 11:11:51 am

And not knowing how to fix a problem is fine… but in the words of the great FDR during the depression, (and this is paraphrased) we have to try something.. and if that doesn't work we have to try something else. We cannot simply let the problem just be. So with that said, what WOULD you do? Telling people to "shut up" may be a bit extreme, but educating (or rather re-educating) people may be beneficial. The question that I pose to you is HOW do you do that?

Isaac Tracy

11/18/2014 11:14:37 am

I TOTALLY AGREE! EVERYONE PUT YOUR HANDS TOGETHER FOR CLARE TYLER! I THINK SHE SHOULD EARN AN AWARD! BRAVO! HIP HIP HORRAY! THIS IS SO TRUE.

Melita Barbosa

11/18/2014 11:16:19 am

I agree, but not fully. Although some girls may take it to the extreme, I feel like they dress this way because they feel confident, just as Musah said. Women and men will never be treated equally if people, especially women themselves, believe these stereotypes or make all of them seem true though. In elementary school, during a gym class, my gym teacher made the class do push-ups. One of the girls in my class couldn't do them and asked if she could do "girl push-ups" instead. When a female makes such a comment about her own gender, without even realizing it, she makes other people think it's okay just because she's basically speaking that way about herself. My gym teacher proceeded to tell her not to call them “girl push-ups” and that girls are just as able as men. After this, I truly respected her. Good job, Clare :)

Jeffrey Gao

11/18/2014 11:20:23 am

Wow, that was deep. I could feel you're anger and emphasis the whole way. I feel like this is a big problem as well. Sometimes, my friends talk about girls as helpless, but I then remind them of how they wouldn't be on this planet without their mothers. That kept them quite!

Madelyn Perez

11/18/2014 12:00:21 pm

Wow Clare awesome post women do not deserve the attention they need.

Faye

11/18/2014 12:06:07 pm

Totally agree with you about stereotypes, but I agree with Musah and Melita. Woman can portray themselves however they want, but peoples reactions to that should be equal with how they react to men.

Melita Barbosa

11/18/2014 11:53:00 am

Good job setting up this prompt, Olivia. I'm excited to see what you present to us when your next turn comes around :)

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 12:05:16 pm

Thanks, guys! I really appreciate it! I'm glad that you guys have these opinions because I think that getting your opinion out there is one of the most important things to do. I love reading your guys' stuff. It warms my heart. Anyway, thank you. And thank you, Mr. Husband.

Faye

11/18/2014 11:56:17 am

Something I also feel really strongly about is a feminist topic that doesn't always get as much recognition or support as things like equal pay or stereotypes. I actually wasn't really even aware of this argument until I read some really deep posts little while ago, but it's really changed the way I think about a lot of things, so yeah...

"Slut-shaming". Basically the idea that women who choose to show themselves in a sexual manner should be shamed or put down for their choices. When society sees a man in his underwear, he's a sex idol. If a woman is sexualized, she's seen as a bad example, or as a "slut". She's completely put down for showing herself how she wants to.

The classic quote about this is "paint a picture of a naked woman and it's art, add a mirror and it's vanity". We tell young woman to feel confident about their bodies and what they look like, but god forbid you wear shorts above the knee and actually show people what you look like. The media and society oversexualizes women so much without a problem, but the moment she chooses to be proud of what she looks like, people freak out. It all boils down to who is in control of your own body and how you portray it. Yourself, or men and the media.

What this really is is unequal censorship. Men take of their shirts and all sorts of stuff all the time, but when a woman does it she's a slut. Sorry if I just kept repeating the same ideas over and over here... If that made no sense just ask me and I'll clarify, I want to make sure this comes across like I want it to...

Nicole Cepeda-Merhi

11/18/2014 12:04:14 pm

I agree with you Faye! It is very true. Many woman who like to show off their bodies or are confident about them are called sluts. This isn't right. I especially agree with you where you said if a male is seen in little to no clothing, he is portrayed as a "Sex God," whereas a female would be "slut shamed." Great post!

Faye

11/18/2014 12:10:19 pm

Thanks Nicole! I feel like this topic really isn't talked about enough, so I was really glad to see so many people standing up for it on some other posts! :D Cheers!

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:11:25 pm

The pure realness/truth tea/slayage you and Nicole just spilt over me and I think I just went to heaven. Women should be granted with the freedom they deserve. Women should be confident in their bodies. I mean this in the maturest way possible, and I'm gonna go all in, Free the nipple*.

*my progressiveness is showing

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 12:12:01 pm

It absolutely does, Amelia Faye. Loud and clear. Now what do we do about it? How do we ever begin to undo years and years of patriarchal chauvinism?

Faye

11/18/2014 12:40:13 pm

YES MUSAH! I'ma have to think about this, Mr. Husband... maybe I'll get back to you by the end of the night. :D

David Eyo

11/18/2014 12:49:32 pm

Powerful post Faye. That quote was also pretty powerful. People don't want girls to act publically sexual and express themselves in that way, but when they do, they are a "slut" and have no self respect. In other words (hopefully less confusing), you don't want girls to be sexual, but you get disgusted when they don't act sexual. With guys, they can act publicly sexual and express themselves however they want and no one would question it. It is unfair that men have that kind of freedom to do what they want, but women still get judged unfairly even if it was what society wanted. (Sorry if this post was typed confusingly)

Faye

11/18/2014 01:08:52 pm

Thanks, David! No no, I actually think it might have clarified some things for some people...

Lourdes Monteiro

11/18/2014 01:27:45 pm

Thank you Faye for speaking out about this. People just throw out words like this like its nothing. WHO CARES IF YOU WEAR BOOTY SHORTS? Its you decision on what you where and how you want to be seen

Julie C.

11/18/2014 11:58:05 am

I think ONE of many issues in society is sexism. We all hear and see sexism a lot everyday since it's in music, music videos, social media, online, etc. I don't like it when people make sexist jokes like when someone says they are going to act like girl and then talks in a total high pitch voice and stand in a "girly" pose.To be honest, the poses that they do are so weird and besides not every girl has a high voice or stands in one particular way. Also people say that boys should do the hard work like helping the family or shouldn't be singing or something around those lines. Many families don't even have a boy in the family, some families don't even have a father around. However, they are still surviving in the society. Sexist things that I hear around mainly target female. Girls have to be kind, organized, pretty, etc. and that's not true. We should be able to be how we want to be even if it doesn't match society's thinking of females. Women shouldn't be payed less, or shouldn't have to stay home to cook and clean the house. Though I have not heard as many sexist things about males, think the ones I've heard is enough. Society thinks men should be hard working, joining armies, running the family, shouldn't cry, etc. Males aren't always so strong and they don't have to be. "let your actions change society, but don't let society change you(or your actions)"( it's a quote that I read so I fixed it up a bit to fit this prompt) Just because society might expect the males to be strong doesn't mean they always have to be, they don't have to go fight for us, they don't have to be the leader of a family. They can cry when they want to cry and not feel like they will be called a wimp or not be called a man. I think that females and males are equal, females can do the same thing that society thinks that only males can do. Males can do the same things that society thinks only females can do. I am happy that we can always point to many things to reference this fact. I think a way to stop sexism is to know that we are all the same, we can all be leaders if we try, we can all be strong. We all have the ability to do the things that society think is only meant for one gender to do. We can tell someone to stop saying those things because we equal.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:00:36 pm

Google "Gamergate" it's about sexism in video games (yes, I actually keep up with gaming) and it may open a lot of eyes. SOCIETY NEEDS TO OPEN IT'S EYES.

#Feminist

Faye

11/18/2014 12:12:55 pm

Yes Julie! Male stereotypes are just as damaging as female stereotypes. I am LOVING these posts, you guys are all awesome! :D

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 12:18:14 pm

You guys all know my sister goes to Andover and yada yada. But what you may not know is that she has been looking at the US Naval Academy for college in her coming years. I am freaking scared out of my wits because I don't want my baby (yes, I know she's older than me but she's still my baby) out there risking her life. But you know, no matter what I say, my sister is gonna push herself to the very limit. She is going to do everything she can to be the best. Did you know that there are no women Navy Seals? I'm telling you, if my sister goes to the Naval Academy she's gonna work her butt of to try and be the first one. I look up to my sister with my whole heart. She like my hero. Her determination is the thing that I admire most about her, so I think that my sister cannot be the only one. There have to be more Fiona Yonkman's out there who also work their butts off. So I am basically calling all those other Fiona's to step it up and show those men that yes, maybe you are biologically stronger than women but that doesn't mean we can't try to beat them. Get out there girls! Oh and fabulous response, Julie. This was basically based off of your post.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:41:06 pm

Olivia this post is pure gold. Excuse me if I'm over involved but I love seeing these responses and they evoke a lot of emotion and make me think. If a girl would've stood up for herself or if I would've just made that commentary about being gay at most other schools I/the hypothetical girl would probably never be able to show my/her face at school ever again. I'm really passionate about everything that's being written and this is a great writing exercise. Bravo ∞

Aminah Islam

11/18/2014 03:38:50 pm

I agree with you Julie. I have witnessed many times mothers scolding their boys for crying and saying that men don't cry. I've also heard strangers tell each other how embarrassing it is for a MAN to cry in front of WOMEN. Really, men aren't emotionless stereotypical people!

VeneciaM

11/18/2014 12:44:26 pm

So, what is a problem in society that you're passionate about? How do you think you can solve it? Comment and tell me what you think. Remember that this can be a problem in America in general or just in your neighborhood.
A problem that has been occurring not only in the US but,all around the world is Sexism.Man and women are not treated equally,back then this was also the case,a example was in the 1900's,women weren't allowed to vote until 1920,when the 14 amendment was released,and it continues to occur in the shadows.Obviously men are capable of more physically,but men sometimes look at women as incapable of doing something and as if they are put on the earth to serve to their every need(not everyone thinks like this),this is also the case with women.Women view men as muscle heads(stupid),when this is not at all true.There are actual places in the world were they enforce this belief(that men and women are different)more than just saying it,they become traditions and cultures.An easy way to stop this issue is to stop comparing our selves.Opinion wise men and women are equal,except for the fact that women give birth,but that is beside the issue.The issue is that humans are always trying to compare themselves to others,especially opposite genders,of course women and men are different but,if it goes to the point were you now come up with a fact that discribes the certain gender,then you are obviously,now trying to find things to enlighten you about yourself.This leads to self confidence,and that leads to the drug abuse in the US,even more problems and how they lead to other issues.
(Sorry its so short)!

Faye

11/18/2014 01:11:20 pm

This is so true, it all comes down to the idea that we should celebrate differences, not rank them! Cheers!

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:59:48 pm

Thank you so much Venecia, that means a lot to me and I'm so glad you feel that way. We need more people like you in the world.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 01:15:49 pm

This was for your response to mine, idk why it's here for but thanks again : )

Musah S.

11/18/2014 09:11:38 pm

Thanks Lili, and regarding your post about black models, I love fashion and I see that the slim percentage of black models is slowly rising, I can only think of 3 right now but here are some; Lupita N'yongo (She was on Elmo talking about having dark skin), Naomi Campbell (She's a classic), and Chanel Iman. These are just a few but I definitely see multi-cultural models slowly rising, I just hope it isn't seen as tokenization.

Isaac Tracy

11/18/2014 11:11:40 am

Well, I hate annoying neighbors, but I don't think you mean that. I hate people littering. I mean, people litter all the time. Everyday, I see people throwing garbage on the floor here and there, even though there is a trash can right next to them. It boggles my mind. People from all over the world has tried to tell people to stop littering. It is a bad habbit and I think that there is room for improvement. Actually, a lot of room for improvement. This won't probably happen in my life time, but they should invent a little thing that you strap to your back and when you need to throw away some trash, you can just put it in there and throw it away when you get home. I know people who have trouble doing this, it's a life hard challenge, but it will help our society and our planet. THAT IS ALL!

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 11:16:07 am

That can't be all. You are a PROGRESSIVE… You have a problem with pollution (littering) in particular… What action steps would you take to better inform the public and curb pollution?

Isaac Tracy

11/18/2014 11:29:44 am

Well, I could put up posters and signs that yell out, "Zon't zo it!" Just kidding. But I could still still do the same thing, but just change the z's to d's. I could also do PSA's and other things like that. Btw, where is the xtra credit?

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 11:38:01 am

I think that littering is because of laziness. It's like, almost everyone in America has an iPhone or iPad. Over the years, we have gotten use to the fast internet and are less patient and have gotten lazy. When people have something like a cup, they think, "Ugh, it's too much work to throw it in the trash. How bout i just throw it on the ground right now. This way, i don't have to keep holding it." And bloop. There's another can on the street.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:02:22 pm

I love the connection to tech here and this is so true we're so use to speed and connection that we're lazy and ugh this annoys me so much, but the environment is just as, if not more important than your tweet.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 11:26:13 am

welp here i am. Here goes nothing.
It's always been about men. "Oh men are better." "Oh men are stronger." "Oh men are smarter." Are we men really? What about the women. I don't see anything about them. It's been like this for centuries. Women were looked down upon and weren't citizens in the beginning. They were just beings that stayed in the house. They had little power in society, even if they were from a rich family. The men had all the jobs and roles in plays. As time went by, women have gotten a few rights and have become more "equal with the men", even though that's how it should have been in the beginning. They are allowed to have jobs such as teaching students at school. They were allowed to vote and were recognized as citizens. However, they were still looked down on and were thought to be lower than men. More years pass and now we're here, in the 21st century. You'd expect that women would be equal with men now, but nothing has changed. Sure women have all the rights men have and are considered citizens. Yet, women are still looked down upon. People (especially men) make jokes about women like "Get back in the kitchen" because it was how it all started. Women were thought to be equal to servants in the beginning. They'd do everything in the house. They'd take care of the babies, clean the house, and cook. Yet they didn't get respect. That was long ago, and yet people still joke about it. Even though it may seem that women are equal to men, it's all a lie. In some workplaces, women still receive lower pay than men just because they are women. They have to work harder to get the same pay as a slacking man in some places. Women are still being abused. They are kidnapped, raped, and/or beaten. It's sad to see that we've only come this far in all those years we had. We say that we're the new generation and we are the ones that will stop this sexism, but hardly anything changes.
I'm just saying, if all of us humans put a little more effort into helping women become equal with men, it might actually happen. When someone makes a joke about women that's really sexist, tell em off. To scared to do so? Grab a friend. There's strength in numbers. Little things like this can actually help women become equal with men.

Sorry if it was a confusing response.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 11:39:29 am

Bravo : ) #Feminist

Weneed more people like CP students in this world.

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 11:47:46 am

Preach, Musah! Preach!

Madelyn Perez

11/18/2014 12:01:53 pm

Same

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 11:46:17 am

I really like your response, Allen. I always say that I was raised feminist because my mom has some serious opinions on sexism. I have a small opinion on why women get lower pay. Well, the truth is that women are the ones who have to go through the whole physical process of having a child and that causes them to have to take time off. That can sometimes be the reason that women are paid less but that is no excuse for paying women less if they haven't even taken a maternity leave that year. Otherwise, I totally agree with you. I'm really proud of you guys for stepping up for women. I'm, like, in tears. Anyway, fabulous response, Allen.

Faye

11/18/2014 12:07:51 pm

Often it's not even maternity leave... childless women are still paid less.

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 12:14:02 pm

Spoken like Mitt Romney :)

Faye

11/18/2014 01:34:04 pm

Huh?

Faye

11/18/2014 12:16:44 pm

Totally agree with this! Especially with the fact that sexism isn't necessarily an active hate or conscious belief. It's in the little jokes we make, the songs we hear, the things constantly shoved in our faces that we begin to believe as "normal". "normal" is often the hardest thing to fight, because it doesn't seem like a constant threat. It's everywhere, and if you want to change it you need to stand up and say something. Cheers! :D

Lourdes Monteiro

11/18/2014 01:31:03 pm

I respect you 10x more for understaning COMPLETELY the struggles of being a girl in general. The labels, the danger, and all that comes with it. Beautiful post, Allen.

Allen Ly link

11/21/2014 06:59:03 am

10 X 0 is still 0 though ;-;

Monece Cooper

11/18/2014 11:41:15 am

Adding on to Clare's statement about how people see women and girls, I total agree with that 100%. I noticed that way before our time girls and women wore long skirts and non tight shirts. Now basically everywhere you look today you see girls wearing crop tops, skinny jeans, tight shirts, and short skirts and dresses. I kind think that some girls get in their mind that if you wear the shortest and tightest clothes you will be liked the most or something but what they don't get is that men and boys would only like them for what they wear not for who they really are inside.

Sergio Liranzo

11/18/2014 11:59:37 am

I agree with Allen, but not fully...I think it goes both ways for men and women, i see where you're going with this, but some people can take too much advantage by saying, He can't do it because it is a GIRL thing or She can't do it because it's a GUY thing, but anybody can do whatever they want, It's a FREE country, don't let people who judge you get to your brain and hurt you. :p

Madelyn Perez

11/18/2014 12:17:58 pm

OMG MOMO I AGREEEEEEEEE

Melita Barbosa

11/18/2014 11:51:20 am

My topic is violence in schools. Now, this topic is very broad, so I'll focus on some more well-known and recent things like school threats and bullying. First of all, lets start off with threats. As we probably all know, police in RI received a letter that threatened the safety of elementary school kids in Cranston, Warwick, and Johnston. The police also said this letter mentioned the beheading of these elementary school students. I find this absolutely disgusting. Poor, innocent, kids were forced to be cautious, forced to miss recess, even forced to miss school because of some random person who has something against elementary school kids. Hearing about this on the news broke my heart. I have a younger sibling who is currently in elementary school and I’m sure some of the other 8th graders do too. This younger sister was terrified for her safety when her school was put on lock down. All of the doors were locked and it took a long winded procedure to do something as simple as using the restroom. I’m not sure if this situation is relevant or even being talked about anymore, I rarely watch the news. I just long for the safety of kids in not just Johnston, Warwick, and Cranston, but all schools across the world who have ever received a threat of this nature.

Next I’ll talk about bullying. Bullying is a very well-known topic and although it may not be very big in the news right now, I’d imagine that it happens every day. Maybe not to the same person, but in some extreme cases, this can be deemed as true. Bullying can happen in many ways and whether it’s verbally, physically, etc., it’s not a positive situation. Both me and my sister have been victims of verbal bullying. She became so scared of her bully that when they asked her to do something that wasn't allowed in her school, she did it, out of fear, then was forced to suffer the consequences. I won’t elaborate much because I don’t think my sister would like me to blurt out all of her personal business online. I've been teased and put down about things I can’t change about myself (bodily features, personality etc.) for as long as I can remember. I don’t feel comfortable elaborating on any of this either. Mind you, my sister is in elementary school, which is also around the time that this all began.

Bullying is sick. No matter how much you dislike a person, putting them down or even physically hurting them is not okay. The sad thing is that bullying doesn't even just happen in schools. It happens online and to people like celebrities who you may worship and wonder what anyone has against them. The really sad thing is that some people think it’s funny. Some people think it’s funny to put others down and make them suffer. I may tease people at times but not to purposely hurt them or watch them suffer. I tease for lack of conversation and for affection, as Mr. Greene once told us he did as well. This is my 3rd (school) year knowing most of you guys and although I may not constantly talk to all of you, I've grown sort of attached to the 8th grade at CP and therefore find lightly teasing you guys normal. This is my last year at this school and this is starting to become emotional so I’ll just move on to the next paragraph.

I have no idea how to solve any of these problems. If I did, I wouldn't still have to suffer through the occasional harsh comment or watching these terrible school-related occurrences on the news. No, the world will never be perfect, but we can get pretty close if we help improve it gradually and if we’re all on the same side.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 11:54:26 am

Great response, I believe that there's a very fine line between bullying and teasing and sometimes it is crossed without notice. This piece opened my eyes about a lot of things I say/do and their effects on people.

Melita Barbosa

11/18/2014 11:56:32 am

Thank you :) this took me a while to write.

Jeffrey Gao

11/18/2014 11:59:44 am

My mom has always said that if someone picks on you, just ignore them. Doing this will make them bored because they want a certain reaction from you. They want to entertain their friends, but if there is no action, that person will look lame. That was a great response Melita!

Julie C.

11/18/2014 12:12:44 pm

I agree with both you and Musah. I think that bullying is another big issue. People shouldn't hurt others because they are hurt. I also think that its sick that people bully someone based on something you can't change like appearance. Musah, I also agree with you that this piece has opened my eyes about a lot of things, not just the way I act and the effects on people.

Faye

11/18/2014 12:29:13 pm

Love this! People are constantly thinking about what other people think about their image or their personality. It's almost a survival instinct to look good and act right in today's society. Even an offhand comment can leave people thinking "is this really how people feel about me?". Bullying can even be in the form of "opinions" from friends. It's a slippery little devil, and it can be lurking in your speech even if you don't realize it. I guess the message is think before you speak. We're all looking for approval and positivity, so if you don't like something either ignore it or just sit down and talk it out.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 12:00:23 pm

"No, the world will never be perfect, but we can get pretty close if we help improve it gradually and if we’re all on the same side." - Melita 2014

So true Melita. You could do things like care for the person who is being bullied and try to cheer them up. You could try to be like their motivation to keep moving on. Or you can help to learn to step up for themselves. Also, another way to stop bullying is helping the bully. As weird as it sounds, helping the bullies stops them from bullying. No i don't mean like beat them up, i mean ask them if something is wrong. Sometimes, people bully other people because they are stressed with things at home or are being bullied/abused by their parents at home. The other cases is just that they do it to look "cool" and show others who is boss. If this is the case, tell a teacher.

Sergio Liranzo

11/18/2014 12:24:57 pm

I agree 100% with you Melita! I have been a victim of bullying and I was a bully as well in Elementary School and i know but sides of those. When I was bullied, He told me that I wasn't perfect and just because I don't have Jordan's he is up top! He had his friends who cheered him on. When I was bullying, it was just because I thought it would be cool, I said to myself that since it's my last year at this elementary, I am the biggest kid here in the whole school, so I can be boss. I suffered consequences that I hated A LOT, i eventually stopped after I hurt many people and it became serious.

Monece Cooper

11/18/2014 12:36:13 pm

I have never experienced bullying and hope to never do but I agree with you 100% that bullying is sick and no one should be putting anyone down for any reason because it's just not right, and you never know what someone is going through so you shouldn't be bullying at all.

Jonathan Ojuri

11/18/2014 12:52:56 pm

You all have some great comments. I agree that the letter is very disturbing. Now, they all have to be very cautious and aware of their surroundings in and around the school. I thought it was news of a threat to hear.and very scary. Also, bully should stop because it hurts the person badly.

Jeffrey Gao

11/18/2014 11:56:56 am

I've always thought of why there is so much fun violence in the world, true, it usually comes from depression of a mental problem, but it starts with the fire arms themselves. Have of the time, I feel like shooter games are the cause of this violence, but I then think about how people think they can protect themselves with a gun. I do play shooter games occasionally, and I do enjoy killing someone, and that might be a feeling people get killing real people. I think have a gun for defensive reasons is impractical. I you do, then your intruder must be a monster. Killing someone is not always the best way to solve a problem either. Parents have to think about how they go about having a gun in a household. They next thing you know, you kids could turn on you. If someone really needs a gun in the household, they should at least put it somewhere that is not able to be found by younger people or even just other family members. I think the only solution is to eliminate guns altogether. If you think about it, getting a gun out of a cabinet, releasing the safety, and shooting would be a lot slower than say picking up a textbook and whacking them on the head!

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 12:02:28 pm

I'm just saying, scissors, large books, and frying pans are my weapons of choice and are only used if seriously necessary. It's always good to know you can defend yourself but if it resorts to actual killing, its not really self defense anymore. Be safe, but be careful on how you defend yourself.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 12:05:27 pm

Agreed, Jeff. Maybe murdering people or killing them is like a drug. Sure it starts out as fun and games, literally. I play shooters, too. I know every time i kill someone, there is that sudden "OMG YES I DID IT MOMENT" and the brain rewards you, just like a drug. As time passes, killing in a game no longer amuses you and your brain needs more. This causes people to go out and kill people in real life to feel that "rewarding" sensation again.

Maximiliano Rodriguez

11/18/2014 12:15:49 pm

I totally agree with you Jeff and Allen. I used to play a lot of shooter games especially Black Ops 2. Whenever I killed someone you can here them raging and it makes you laugh but they can respawn most of the time. In your defense you have a gun. But in real life if your "defending yourself" with a gun and shoot them, there's no pressing "respawn' or "re-enter" theres just death or murder.

Jeffrey Gao

11/18/2014 12:21:50 pm

Yes, I know where you guys are coming from: it's starts with the game, then paintball, to BB guns, hunting, target practice, and then finally criminal actions. As you said Max, there is no undo or respawn button in real-life. What is done, can't be undone. I feel like shows like criminal minds also promotes that it is ok to kill people. I'm looking at Lourdes and your criminal shows. These means of entertainment mess with our brain. What we see is what we believe most of the time, so producers out there have to think about what violence is doing to out society.

Jonathan Ojuri

11/18/2014 12:47:34 pm

I agree with all, I do also play shooting games and I do enjoy the sound of the person that I killed's raging. It makes me laugh a lot and motivates me to play even more. But, for some people, after playing it, it could lead into actual violence and shootings, which isn't good at all. The owner of the gun in your family for protection should keep the gun in a very safe and probably locked up area where it is not reachable to any younger children.

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 12:32:02 pm

Edit this, Jeff. The part about "enjoying killing people" sounds very literal. Make it clear that you are talking about the game (I hope), or i'll have to report it.

Jeffrey Gao

11/18/2014 12:53:30 pm

Yeah sorry Mr. Husband,
I did mean enjoying it in games, and I definetly didn't mean that I liked killing real people.

Faye

11/18/2014 12:32:52 pm

If you teach kids that you need a gun to protect yourself, they're going to start wondering "from what?". This is where kids are taught to be scared. To hate and shoot down what they don't believe in because it scares them. Kids shouldn't be taught to point a gun at everything they don't understand. We should be raising explorers, not murderers.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 12:59:37 pm

I also play shooting games and enjoy playing them. When I was younger, I loved those type of games so much, I wanted to be in the army so I could act like im in Call of Duty, but just in real life. Now that I am older, I have realized that gun safety is a big thing and shouldn't be joked around with. I have a friend who has a hunting rifle in his room that his dad bought him. I also have another friend who's father collects guns just for the fun of it. I agree with you that the only effective solution is to get rid of guns and limit guns only to police and army officials.

Jeffrey Gao

11/18/2014 01:13:57 pm

I've always thought of why there is so much fun violence in the world, true, it usually comes from depression of a mental problem, but it starts with the fire arms themselves. Have of the time, I feel like shooter games are the cause of this violence, but I then think about how people think they can protect themselves with a gun. I do play shooter games occasionally, and I do enjoy killing someone in the game, and that might be a feeling people get lead killing real people. I think have a gun for defensive reasons is impractical. I you do, then your intruder must be a monster. Killing someone is not always the best way to solve a problem either. Parents have to think about how they go about having a gun in a household. They next thing you know, you kids could turn on you. If someone really needs a gun in the household, they should at least put it somewhere that is not able to be found by younger people or even just other family members. I think the only solution is to eliminate guns altogether. If you think about it, getting a gun out of a cabinet, releasing the safety, and shooting would be a lot slower than say picking up a textbook and whacking them on the head!

Nicole Cepeda-Merhi

11/18/2014 11:58:38 am

My topic is homophobia. America is known as "the land of the free," a place where all is accepted. But is this really true? We constantly are surrounded by people of different religions and backgrounds and we have learned to accept it. Although racism has majorly improved from the 20th century to modern times, it has not completely vanished.

I believe that we all should be accepted no matter if we're gay, lesbian, straight, transgender, etc. It angers and hurts me when people discriminate the LGBT community. I recently had a conversation with someone that involved their opinion on the topic that is homosexuality. This person was someone I looked up to but their answer shocked and upset me incredibly. They had told me that they partially accepted homosexuality. They believe that a man should be with a woman, according to the bible. They also said that we are put on Earth to reproduce and continue the human race. "Why love someone of the same gender, when we were put to fulfill our job of reproduction?" I then spoke my opinion. I had explained how I believe we should all be accepted for who we are. At the end of the day, we are who we are and people are who they are. I think that we should be able to love who we want. I then went into the topic of same sex marriage. I think a piece of paper shouldn't determine your love for someone. Everyone has different opinions on that but we all should be able to engage in marriage with whom ever we want. As long as you both have agreed on that decision obviously.

I, myself, have been called things for supporting homosexuals. I've known people who have committed suicide because of homophobic people. It's really hurtful and can play a major role in the decision some LGBT people make. If America is so free, then why can't we all just learn to accept people! The term "gay" now has become an adjective used to describe people associated with homosexuality. But not only that, people use it as an insult to others. I have heard kids on my bus repeatedly use the term, people walking down the street, and especially on social media. Gay used to mean happy, carefree, and bright. Now people throw it around like its meaningless. "That's so gay," is commonly used to describe things or people as rubbish or stupid. Since when did the word gay, have such a negative tone to it? I can only imagine how offensive that could be to some people.

I believe that the solution has been set in front of us for a while. Although many people from previous generations will have a hard time accepting homosexuality, the modern generation we live in today has the power to change the view's towards the LGBT community. It takes one person to start a big change. If all get over ourselves and learn how to accept others, the outcome of the problem will be positive. Happiness is one of the most important things in life. If loving someone of the same gender is the key to our happiness, then why not accept it?

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:04:57 pm

Preach.

Lourdes Monteiro

11/18/2014 01:36:31 pm

Preach. #Feminist

SHARE THE HASHTAG!!!!

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 12:11:41 pm

Be sure to check this out, but its a cool video i watched the other day. It argues how people should support gay marriage and how we should be happy that homosexual men are attracted to other homosexual men. Its called : Gay Men Will Marry Your Girlfriend.
Look it up on youtube.com if you have access to it on something other than your Chromebook. It's by college humor and they make really awesome arguments.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:13:50 pm

ALLEN I SAW THAT!!!

Nicole Cepeda-Merhi

11/18/2014 12:57:06 pm

Sounds very interesting. I will check the video out at soon as I can! Thank you for sharing this video. :)

Monece Cooper

11/18/2014 12:26:19 pm

I think I'm probably the only one in my family who doesn't have a problem with gay people and support their decisions in life. My mom doesn't really care for it but she does believe that men and women should only be together as the bible says. My brothers are always saying that a man and another man kissing is gross. I believe if they think that kissing another is gross then kissing a girl is just as gross, and then they would never a have a girlfriend or whatever. one thing that really annoys me is that they call my youngest brother gay for no apparent reason. A question that I ask myself every time they say this is, how would they possibly know what being gay is like? and why do they think that my youngest brother's actions are so gay? My family is really twisted. Some people should just accept the LGBT community like other people have come to learn to do.

Nicole Cepeda-Merhi

11/18/2014 12:56:17 pm

Hm..I don't know how I feel about people labeling your brother gay. You shouldn't assume something if you're not 100% sure you're correct. (This is, in no way, directed to you. Lol.) When it comes to labeling people things, that can be a touchy subject and a bit hard to approach. If I were in your position, I would probably question the same things.

Faye

11/18/2014 12:37:14 pm

YES NICOLE! Nobody has any obligation or should be forced into having kids. Life is about happiness. You only have one life, it's meaningless if you only use it for your body and not your soul. I couldn't agree more, these posts are making me so happy!

Nicole Cepeda-Merhi

11/18/2014 12:53:24 pm

YES FAYE! That is so true.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:58:23 pm

Sexuality is a part of human nature, we should just embrace it and Faye I swear you need to write a self-help book. Someone may not be attracted to the opposite sex but they can probably acknowledged and admire the beauty of the opposite sex. Homophobia is just wrong in so many ways. Did you know until about the late 1900's homosexuality was classified as a mental illness? They performed truly horrific procedures to try to "cure" it... This discussion is great I'm fascinated.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 01:14:26 pm

Wait, but why is gay kissing taboo but lesbian kissing is hot, prime example of objectification. And before people say "What's the difference between a woman hypersexualizing herself and a man hypersexualizing her?" The woman is embracing her sexuality because she can, and she should be able to as long as it's not blatantly distracting, but the man objectifying her just make's it somebody elses choice.

A girl was sexually assaulted at a college and the school refused to acknowledge it, like many schools do, so she carried a mattress around campus until the offender was arrested and expelled.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/22/arts/design/in-a-mattress-a-fulcrum-of-art-and-political-protest.html?_r=0

There is also a video of a women walking around *whilst secretly filming* in New York City in which she gets sexually objectified by hundreds of men. It was on CNN.

find it here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1XGPvbWn0A

Faye

11/18/2014 01:15:14 pm

Yes, we should totally turn this conversation into an 8th grade project! It could be totally mixed subject... we could do stuff like this in history, essays and stuff like those chart paper responses in LA, Art... well express your opinions through art, duh! WE could incorporate this into our Beloved Community Night stuff...

Maximiliano Rodriguez

11/18/2014 12:09:44 pm

I have recently noticed that Domestic Violence is starting to get really bad. It's getting really bad between men and women. Although men have more cases of being violent, women can be violent to. But anyways Domestic Violence needs to stop and people who are being hurt by it need to SPEAK UP! And it might be hard, but once they speak up and tell people that they're being hurt life will be easier. Also I think that people that can tell people are being hurt need to try to help them to do the right thing.

I feel as if to stop this we need to make a speak up add but about Domestic Violence because I know that there is already some about bullying. I also feel as if the NFL is helping with this a lot by putting up the new Domestic Violence PSA. Also, they should make a law that if the person who is violent goes to jail and that person maintains the family the victim should get help by paying the mortgage, getting a job and help paying for food or clothes of that family.

Jalen Mendoza

11/18/2014 02:31:02 pm

I agree. I've noticed how there's been more cases of Domestic Violence. It's sad how it's happening and how people are making jokes of it too.

Sergio Liranzo

11/18/2014 12:14:24 pm

A problem that I see in our society is the use of slang or language that can be offensive to other people from different races. For example, a lot of people use the "n" word that doesn't make sense at all sometimes. There are people that I know that say the "n" word to get someones attention, like, Yo, n****, blah blah blah. There are also racist terms for Asians, like "Asian people are yellow!" I do not get that term at all because what do you get out of saying these terms that can hurt peoples' feelings even though you can be joking around. I personally take it into offense sometimes even if it is a joke of another race. I heard my 11 year old step-brother use the "n" word and I asked him, "What does that word mean to you? What do you get out of it? Does it make you look tougher? I don't know where you get that from, but don't talk to me like that." There are other stereotypes like Just because he is Black he has to be from a gang or he's gonna attempt to steal yourself or he is going to pull out a gun. I mean yea! STRANGER DANGER right, but there are people that think, "He's white, so he is gonna help me for my bags. If a black person was walking towards you, just to help with YOUR bags, would you do it? I would not know what to do, to be honest! I feel like this problem that cannot be fixed because there is ALWAYS going to be that one person that is going to use this language! It can be annoying at times because I feel offended sometimes.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 12:20:14 pm

Great post, I've had people cross the street when the see me walking up to them or even look at me weird when I don't conform to their perfectly, preconstructed, spoonfed, view of African-Americans. Being in any minority is tough and the subtle racism contributes a lot to stereotypes.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 12:25:00 pm

I totally agree with you, Sergio. People use racist terms for no reason. And it does hurt other people's feeling and can even lead to bullying. Also, i hate it when people are the race they're making fun of and they argue they can say it because they're the race they're making fun of.
EXAMPLE: "Oh, Asians are so yellow, they're almost golden."
Then people say "Oh that's so racist."
Then they argue with the person:
"Oh it don't matter. I'm Asian so it's fine for me to make fun of Asian's."
No it's not. Just cause you're Asian, doesn't mean you have the right to make fun of them. You don't speak on behalf of all Asians.

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 12:28:43 pm

Preach, Allen.

Faye

11/18/2014 12:48:48 pm

So true! This only eggs people on. "Oh, if even said victim is saying it, It must be totally fine!". Treat YOURSELF how you want to be treated. The change starts with you.

John Gross

11/18/2014 01:07:33 pm

Nice post Sergio.
A lot of the time people use racist terms along with everyday speech. Mid sentence they might make a racist comment. This sometimes comes wanting to fit in, appear tough or intimidating, or from just pure ignorance.

Jeffrey Gao

11/18/2014 12:28:18 pm

The other issue with racism is judging others before you have a chance to know them. Their appearance might even just erase that option. I've had older kids walk by me as I walk home from the bus, and they ask me, "Hey asian boy, you in college yet?!" or "Hey you have 200% in all your classes?!" These statements make me think about how our different cultures give us a different characteristic to us even if it doesn't apply to us. These stereotypes and slang together create a world where we don't want to meet others, then once you make the decision to meet them, it's usually a good time.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 12:37:42 pm

Nice example about the black vs white scenario with the bags. I am glad that you honestly stated what's your take on the scenario. Believe it or not, I am not sure what I would do. I have seen people of color do some shady stuff, but everyone is different. Even if they have the same skin color.

Jonathan Ojuri

11/18/2014 12:39:31 pm

Yes, stereotyping is a huge part in racism. It makes no sense to stereotype a person and think the person will be okay about it. You could hurt a person's feelings.

Faye

11/18/2014 12:46:31 pm

Love this, Sergio. Again, Labels have power.

Madelyn Perez

11/18/2014 01:39:18 pm

I agree. this is a big problem in society because people stereotype blacks and other minorities even though these minorities have changed the American way of life. Think about it, we wouldn't have the great president that we have today if blacks were not around. O_0

Madelyn Perez

11/18/2014 12:16:31 pm

The topic that I chose to wright about was the separation of society because of wealth. Even though people are not as separated as they were now it is still crazy how it's unfair how people are treated because of their economic status. I started to realize this problem even more when I started to apply to high schools. My family is middle class and some parts of my family are poor. When I go and see schools like Dana Hall where they have an Equestrian center it shows me how people who have money live in another world. All my life I have been going to schools that my mom can afford. Even though we are not poor we still can't afford a $50,000 school. Another thing that I saw is how people can be in such of another world, that they don't even know how normal people live. The last thing that I find hard to believe is that your future depends on how much money you have. Something that I found out not to long ago was that my great grandmother only went to school up to second grade and that shows me why she lives the way she does. Just because the American lifestyle my dream of getting into Parsons school of design depends on if I get a scholarship or not. I believe that we can fix this problem by fixing the way everybody lives, and give them opportunities even if their not rich.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 12:38:33 pm

YES! Totally agree with you on the separation on society topic. So (this is sort of off topic) i watch this anime called "One Piece". *spoilers alert*. Around episode 450, there is a lot of drama and they show the huge gap between the rich and poor. The rich live right next to the poor and the only thing separating them is a huge wall. The rich have everything and the poor live in the landfills where all the rich people dump their trash. The poor scavenge through the piles and sell the valuable things such as jewelry (the rich throw them away cause they aren't in style). One day, some people from the government (they are like descendants of the people that made the government and they abuse the fact that they are descendants and can commit crimes without getting arrested) to inspect the place. The rich decide to burn everything in the landfills, even the humans. Why? So everything looks perfect. They are the same species, yet they decide to do it without hesitation. It shows that huge gap where the rich have a ton of power. They are able to kill all those people with the snap of a finger. Anyways, we shouldn't be so hateful of the rich though. Cut them some slack. Some rich/famous people suffer the same problems as us. Sometimes, their problems are even worse. For an example. A high ranking boy is forced to be smart so he can marry a high ranking girl. If they can't do it, they are treated like trash by their own parents. They are abandoned or beaten. Just sayin.

Madelyn Perez

11/18/2014 12:44:05 pm

Sounds interesting I might want to watch it...thanks for the comment, the rich and poor really do have a big gap even though some people might not notice it.

Faye

11/18/2014 01:16:53 pm

Shoot, I can't read this...

Faye

11/18/2014 12:53:40 pm

Agreed. Socio-economics also play a HUGE roll in stereotypes. If you don't have the money to pursue your dream that will help you support yourself, you can see how stupid the cycle is. Just because of those few rags-to-riches stories, some people think it's easy for poor people to rise out of their conditions and magically make money, but it's not easy. Just because you have money, doesn't mean you've worked any harder in life, are any smarter, or are a better person in any way.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 01:43:41 pm

I totally agree with you Madelyn. I remember during my high school conference with Ms. Rodriguez, she was saying how some of the applications for some schools could be so ridiculous. She said that it wasn't fair to ask questions that are clearly targeting well educated people who tend to be more wealthier than others. Some parents only went up to 4th then ended school.

Jason Hernandez

11/18/2014 03:28:31 pm

Yes! People definetly seperate the others and its completly unfair, i just do not understand how stupid people judge other because of their wealth. Good Post.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 12:29:10 pm

A problem that I am passionate about is racism. More specifically, prejudice against black people. I am probably so passionate about prejudice against black people since I am black and, on less extreme levels, can relate to their struggles. It always startled me when I hear on the news about policemen abusing their power and killing blacks. An example is the death of Michael Brown and that one about the kid from Florida. (Sorry I forgot the names) Michael Brown was unarmed and had his hands up when the police officer decided to shoot and kill him. I also saw a video about a black guy got out of his car, unarmed, to get gas like your parents would. There was a police on patrol there and I guess he thought the man looked dangerous so he started shooting at the man. The black guy was running and jumping around saying, "what are you doing", "im just getting gas" and "i am unarmed". Eventually the guy got shot in the side of his stomach. Police expect and sometimes try to convince citizens to not be afraid of them and that they are just doing what's right, but killing a black man because he was sagging and looked dangerous doesn't exactly make a person think to highly of police officers. When I am around police, I sometimes wonder, am I going to be shot for being black?

I have also heard stories about how there are some things that white people can get away with with the police that black people can't which is unfair. It was a white male who killed the black guy in that Florida dilemma. If it was the other way around, the black guy would most likely go to jail quicker, longer, and have less court hearings and debates about the situation than the white male did. The white male had a lot of chances to explain the circumstance to court. Saying how the black guy he killed looked threatening and did threaten him.

I am not to sure of how we could fix this negativeness towards blacks. Maybe in schools, they could emphasize more that everyone is equal and everyone is different. That black people are no more meaner or more of a threat to society than white people and other races. I think schools already have these kind of discussions with their students, especially with younger kids, but I honestly I am not sure what else there is to do about this problem. Creating a law stating not to kill a black because hes black wouldn't really do much. It would still happen and the killer can just come up with an excuse like "he tried starting a fight with me". So that is my take on this prejudice against blacks problem that society faces here in America.

Monece Cooper

11/18/2014 12:53:32 pm

David are talking about the Trayvon Martin case? I also agree how police can get away with things. Like this one time when my brother was coming to pick me up after school this cop stopped him for no reason and started asking him if he's ever been to jail, or taken illegal drugs before. And the thing was that he didn't look suspicious or anything and they just stop them? I find this really stupid how the cops try to go up a random person of color and try to ask them all these different questions. This actually happened towards the end of six grade so he was like 16 at the time, he didn't even know what was going on.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 01:12:25 pm

Yeah! The Treyvon Martin case.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 01:18:44 pm

We pay our taxes so we can be harassed and have our police force smoking *illegal substances on the job.*..

*See WPRI*

Faye

11/18/2014 01:04:45 pm

"If it was the other way around, the black guy would most likely go to jail quicker, longer, and have less court hearings and debates about the situation than the white male did" This is so accurate it hurts. I was once watching two guys get arrested from my window, one was black and one was white. The policeman, also white, pushed the black man into the car and searched him before handcuffing him and putting him into the backseat. Then he held the door open for the white guy and lightly pushed him inside. Actually he might've even let the white guy sit in the front seat right next to him, I don't even remember... But the point is is that neither were showing any violence against the cop. Whatever they did, it seemed they both committed the same crime and still the black guy was stereotyped and seen as a larger threat. This is also a difficult problem to solve, for many stereotypes define their "normal". It's hard, but not impossible. It's all about proving your point, and there's so much proof against stereotypes out there it's infuriating they still exist.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 01:37:20 pm

I probably shouldn't be laughing right now, but I just find it funny how the policeman treated the white guy in your story. This was the scenario in my head, "I know you just commited crime, but ill take it easy on you since u dont seem like much of a threat and your white. So can you please get in the car? Pretty please? Even better, you get to rid shotgun! Yay!" In all seriousness though, that isn't okay because they both commited the same crime, but the white guy gets better treatment because of the color of his skin.

Naomi Hernandez

11/18/2014 02:19:11 pm

Yes Faye, the treatment would be different. Obviously the world doesnt go by, "The darker the berry, the sweeter the taste." Everybody likes the sour strawbessies and blueberies. That sourness is going towards the sweeter berry. All skins can have the equal amount of sourness and the equal amount of sweetness. It doesnt depend on the color of your skin, it is supposed to depend on who you are as a person.

Naomi Hernandez

11/18/2014 02:20:43 pm

Yes Faye, the treatment would be different. Obviously the world doesn't go by, "The darker the berry, the sweeter the taste." Everybody likes the sour strawberries and blueberries. That sourness is going towards the sweeter berry. All skins can have the equal amount of sourness and the equal amount of sweetness. It doesn't depend on the color of your skin, it is supposed to depend on who you are as a person.

(I fixed my mistakes)

Jonathan Ojuri

11/18/2014 12:32:11 pm

My topic that I will be talking about is Cyber-Bullying. Cyber-bully is a huge problem that happens on the internet. Some people could write really bad stuff about you one day, and the next day, you find out that everyone is laughing at you at school and you are clueless about what's going on. Everywhere you go, you are being embarrassed and scared, until someone finally tells you that a bully has posted lies about you on Facebook, Twitter, or some other social media site. Cyber-bullying can really ruin your life and in some cases, it could lead to not returning to school anymore, running away, or even worse...death because the bullying has got way too serious. Cyber-bullying needs to really stop and people need to stand up for themselves and do something about it. Cyberbullies really gain nothing in hurting someone's feelings and posting lies on the internet. It's all for the laughter and fame at school and so you will become popular because people think you are funny. But, do the Cyberbullies know what's in the person's mind and how they are seriously feeling? This issue needs to really stop because it really hurt some really bad. Do the bullies even know what the word cyber-bullying means? Let's stand up for ourselves and put an end to Cyber-Bullying! Thank you for reading and good night!

Jonathan Ojuri

11/18/2014 12:34:28 pm

meant to say cyber-bullying in sentence 2, but I am pretty sure you know what I mean

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 12:52:21 pm

Again, off topic. My cousin used to get cyber bullied (he lives in Minnesota). He got called "the stupid Asian" or "Poor Stick Man" (cause he was super skinny but he was like 6 feet 5 inches in 8th grade. Taller than Jason i think). So one day, his "friend" turned on him and called him "Stick Man". He stood up and said,"SHUT THE HELL UP! OKAY?! YOU WANNA KNOW WHY HE POSTED THAT CRAP ON SOME STUPID SOCIAL MEDIA? CAUSE HE'S AFRAID TO TELL IT TO MY FACE!" and everything got real quiet. The cyber bully confronted him the next day and they got into a fight. Of course my cousin being my cousin won the fight. All talk but no game

Monece Cooper

11/18/2014 01:08:57 pm

kind of off topic but if you guys haven't seen Cyber-bully with Emily Osment( sorry if that's not how you spell her but.... whatever) any way it is basically about her creating this account so student can talk to each other. Any way she makes one and starts to get bullied and it's really sad to but everything she went through is what millions of kids go through is they are being cyber-bullied.

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 12:36:22 pm

Okay, because I have been provoked by reading all your amazing posts, I am going to write the ugly truth.

The ugly truth is that we are all the same. Not like clones, we all have different personalities and different looks (even if you're an idential twin). But we are the same in the aspect that it should never ever matter whether you're a boy or a girl, what your sexuality is, or what your ethnicity is. We should be respected and accepted into society no matter who we are. It's our differences that make us the same, whole community. I don't know if that's ugly but it's most definitely the truth, or at least what I think is the truth on the subject. Agree with me or not, that is my opinion.

Faye

11/18/2014 01:06:42 pm

BEAUTIFUL. That doesn't mean differences shouldn't be celebrated, it means they shouldn't be ranked. This and all these posts is everything I stand for, I LOVE IT

John Gross

11/18/2014 01:00:24 pm

One of the biggest problems, in my view, is electric companies. I was talking to my grandmother about two weeks ago while we drove to my brother's school, when it occurred to me that I had never heard my mom talk about getting a new electric company. So I asked my grandmother. She said that there used to be one company for the whole RI and now there were several companies that distributed electricity to certain places, but never two companies in one place. Then I asked my grandmother another question, would the electric companies then be considered monopolies. She answered with something along the lines of "Yes, but they find ways to get out of punishment," or "not really, because the whole state has several companies."
I find this a problem, because what if your electric company, which also controlled your gas, decided to turn off your electricity, in the middle of winter, then said you could have it back if you paid $1,000 for every hour of electricity and $2,000 more for every hour of gas. In this situation you would have no choice but to agree to that company's demands, where else could you get what you needed to stay warm.
Basically your electric company could, and sometimes does, charge you a lot of money for things that should come with buying a house. It's like if your house did not come with windows or a roof.
The easiest way to fix this would be to include electricity with the purchase of a house or to build more electric companies.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 01:05:57 pm

John. This is not a coincidence. Today they turned my Aunt's gas off and it was 30 degrees in the house. I normally have her drop me home and she had to call the gas company and threaten to sue, they said it might take until midnight for them to send someone. She has a 2 year old and there was no hot water so she had to call the Emergency Gas Leak number for them to send someone and within 15 minutes someone was at the house.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 01:15:16 pm

wait did they do it on purpose? Cause if they did, that's really messed up. Like, would they like it if their gas was turned off instantly and they had no heat, or hot water for hours?

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 01:15:13 pm

Speak, John, Speak!!! When you're an adult responsible for a household, you will hate them even more. I agree that there is no possible explanation for these companies not to be considered monopolies smh smh smh

Musah S.

11/18/2014 01:33:35 pm

I think it was a bill processing error, but she paid and it should have been on.

Jalen Mendoza

11/18/2014 01:14:15 pm

I think one problem is what young people listen to on the radio or in any song. Now a days, rappers only talk about how much money they got, the clothes they got, how much women they got, and they talk about drugs and guns. This only influences teens to do what all their favorite rappers are do. Innocent kids are getting killed because of what rappers are influencing them to do. Another problem is police brutality. I think police officers abuse their power when their on duty, but when they aren't on duty they know they can't do nothing. It's a problem how they get away with killing and beating people when they aren't doing anything. Most of the people they hurt are teens because of what they do now a days like I said.

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 01:20:14 pm

So how do we solve this? No, better yet, how do YOU solve this? And be careful not to suggest censorship, we all have protection under the ______________ amendment.

Destiny Reyes

11/18/2014 01:27:36 pm

The topic I chose to talk about is obesity. About 53.5% of Americans are overweight and 18.4% are children. It has been noted to be a major health issue, especially in the United States. Obesity is also responsible for $8.65 billion in lost workplace. We tend to eat more than needed, and I know this because I do it. According to many articles, we eat more than needed when we are stressed, depressed or in my case, bored. We also don't take part in many physical activities. Now a days we mostly eat junk food or food that is microwavable. We don't really bother to read the label and those who do don't really care. In these kinds of foods there are large amounts of fat, salt, and sugar. We also don't pay attention to what we are told about eating too much. We ignore all these things and just think 'it's my own body. I can eat what I want, and I don't need any one telling me what's good and what's not.' A few things that we could do to solve this problem is try to inform people of this. Spreading the word is a probably a helpful way of getting others to realize that it is bad. Also we could try to eat more healthier foods like vegetables. Especially if their grown from your own garden. Also, try to prevent what triggers you to eat a lot. And if that doesn't help, try exercising more. There are many other ways to prevent from becoming obese like for example does any one else do that thing where you just open the fridge looking for something to eat, and when you don't find anything you want you walk away and then come back thinking maybe some actual yummy food magically appeared? Well after closing the fridge maybe you could walk around your house for a bit, then return and keep repeating this until you understand the fact that food can't magically appear in the fridge. Sadly ):

Musah S.

11/18/2014 01:35:20 pm

I love how this piece is more comedic, and I love food too :)))

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 01:38:28 pm

yea. When i think about obesity, i think about me getting obese and fat. Sure I'm skinny now, but thats thanks to my fast metabolism. Im used to eating a lot because my body is able to process everything faster. SO while im used to eating a ton now, ill get fat later cause im won't get use to the fact that i cant eat like i did when i was a kid

Musah S.

11/18/2014 01:41:34 pm

Same Allen, same.

Olivia Pereira

11/18/2014 01:35:08 pm

One problem about the society that really bothers me is sexism! It is so stereotypical that women stay home, clean, and take care of the children. Meanwhile, the husband is out taking in all the profits. Why can't it be the other way around? Also, people make the dumbest sexist jokes, saying that girls do things like shopping all the time, but not every girl is like that. I know I'm not, I don't have money to be shopping every weekend! Men have so much more power in the society than women, which bothers me because women could lead the household just as well as a male. This may sound odd, but do you notice how most of the time in poems or any type of literature, when there isn't a known name, they usually replace it with male pronouns? Why can't that person be a female? I remember reading a poem about a powerful person and the writer used male pronouns. This powerful person could also be a female, so why automatically come to the conclusion that the character is a male? I hope one day it will be equal power between male and females, there isn't THAT many differences between an average male and female. ( <SEE!?) I put the word male before female. This just shows that the society I'm living in always puts males first and on top. Therefore, it is so natural to even put the word male before female. People just have to put it through their heads that women aren't always the weak and less successful ones. One day women will take over the world because I don't believe in the male are stronger and more successful nonsense!
*Sorry if the males feel offended, but we all know it is true!*
"WHO RUNS THE WORLD? GIIIIIIIRRRRRRRRRLLLLSSSS!"(:

Musah S.

11/19/2014 05:19:21 am

I like the Bey reference... Good message too : )

Naomi Hernandez

11/19/2014 05:24:32 am

I agree. Feminism does not mean Female>Male, Feminism means Female=Male. (I saw it in a picture.)

Faye

11/21/2014 12:25:00 pm

Yes!

Kaylee

11/18/2014 02:01:39 pm

Something I have noticed is that people are not remembering the reasons for holidays, other special occasions or important things in life. Our lives know run around new technology and cool stuff. All we look at is the new and improved items. Some of the children in my family, if you celebrate Christmas, think that's it all about getting presents, eating a lot about food, playing games, and wearing special Christmas clothes. For birthdays kids just want presents. I know I do. The more people the more presents. Kids with a room full of toys will never be satisfied unless they have all the new cool toys. Even when we have them there will always bigger and better ones. One day, we won't play with toys anymore and they will all be given away or not used. Then we move on to always wanting the next Playstation or IPhone or IPod or shoes. It's a never ending cycle of wanting. Wanting is not bad but putting that over everything else is a problem. There are more things to life than something that will soon never be used.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 02:08:13 pm

You know, this a really sad post and it sort of kills me a little. I remember as a kid, everyone was so happy and thankful if they got something like a CD player or Gameboy. It was all about the new Pokemon game. Even if the kids didn't get it and got something like Bakugauns, they'd be like "OMG MOM AND DAD! THANKS SOO MUCH I LOVE YOU GUYS!" now, kids don't even play with toys. Like they buy them and stockpile them, but they don't do anything with them. If they get something like a PS3 instead of a PS4, they'll get mad at their parents. Idk it's just really sad to see how spoiled people are now.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 02:22:10 pm

You make such a great point, Allen. When I was 5, all i had was pokemon cards. Pokemon cards were everything to me. Now a days, 5 year olds have ipads, smartphones, and othere cool stuff i didn't even dream of having as a kid.

David Eyo

11/18/2014 02:14:20 pm

I never really thought about it like that. I agree with you fully on this topic. I have had the ds, DS lite, the dsi, and the 3ds. Each time a new ds came out, i stopped using the one i had and begged for the new one. Americans are known for wanting. There was a kid in Haiti who didn't have any shoes and when they were passing out shoes, they ran out and he couldn't get any. But he seemed perfectly fine with it saying he'll get shoes next time. In America, we have everything but always want more. We have the iphone 6, but we have to have the iphone 6+. We have the lebron 3's, but we have to have the lebron 4s. The things that we complain about not having here in america just seems so ridiculous when you compare it to people in a different country who have nothing, but dont complain about it.

Elijah Georges

11/18/2014 02:52:21 pm

This is actually something we try to look away from. We all know what we emphasize on is wrong, but we don't look at it so much. Great point. Great post.

Naomi Hernandez

11/18/2014 02:08:36 pm

There are a million things wrong with society that I would like to change, but there is only one that I am really passionate about. It is the way the words, gay and les/lesbian are used. I absolutely hate how some people say, "That is so gay" or, "Ugh, he must be gay" or, "I think he is gay because he does..." It seriously disgust me, because some people just have a different personality and because of stereotypes, this person is subjectified. Also when someone says they currently don't like anybody and the immediate though of some people is, "Must be gay" or, "She is lesbian, she has to be." Along with that, I hate how some people can't accept anyone in the LGBT community. I know someone who changes the station once Same Love by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis comes on. This person, let's call him Mark, can't stand being in the same room as a LGBT. It is unfair that we have to accept people who can’t accept us.

Honestly I don’t know if there is anyway I could help that. I would say for all states of America to accept gay marriage and/or gay PDA without all the chaos with protesters. But I guess not everything can be fair, because protesters would protest about how fair the world is and no one wants that.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 02:12:08 pm

Nice post, makes me think of our bus...

Naomi Hernandez

11/18/2014 03:03:14 pm

Yes. The bus always comes in mind

Aminah Islam

11/18/2014 02:38:55 pm

The problem with America that I am going to talk about is religious persecution. I might offend some people, so sorry if I do. Also, if you feel uncomfortable reading stuff that I am going to post, then tell me and I'll try to avoid the topic.

So, as you all know, I'm Muslim. I wear a veil on my head, so that's a big indication of what religion I follow. Some people have come to accept who I am, and some haven't. I already got used to people who treat me differently than others from a small age. If you see Senora's "Seeds of Success," you can see that I was wearing a head scarf since I was 7 years old. My parents didn't force me to wear it... and I didn't mind wearing it either. They told me what would happen if I wore it, and if I was ready. I told them that I wasn't afraid to show who I am. However, what they were telling me then, didn't quite register in my head. They were trying to warn me that people would start to look differently at me. I didn't know that until I went to school the next day. Some of my friends were unperturbed by the change in my clothes, but some stayed away from me because I was "different". Students weren't the only one that treated me coldly. Believe it or not, but some of my teachers didn't like the fact that I was wearing my headscarf. If they had kids in the same school as I went to, they told them to stay clear of me. I was very offended at first. But I got used it as I got older. As I moved around and changed schools, people became more curious about me than being mean. I didn't mind people asking me questions. The questions ranged from being, "Aren't you hot in that?" to "Aren't all Muslim women oppressed because of the cloth they have to wear on their head?"

Anyways, the main point of me sharing my personal experience was that people from different religious face many problems. Even though the first amendment say that all American citizens have the freedom to religion, people in different states are being discriminated for their beliefs.

Mr. Husband

11/18/2014 02:43:48 pm

Truth!

Musah S.

11/18/2014 09:21:16 pm

Sorry for posting this at 5 in the morning but I feel so captured by these posts. You have to be really strong and ignore the ignorance Aminah, I'm really proud that you are strong and you have the confidence to not let others put you down too much : )

(My father was Muslim, Musah means Moses in Arabic : )

Aminah Islam

11/19/2014 04:44:47 am

When I first heard your name, I thought that you probably had a relative that was Muslim :)

Jason Hernandez

11/19/2014 03:31:10 pm

Sorry that this is 11:30 PM the next day, but i agree with you. i think it is a problem the have people look at you differently because of some changes. I can see and feel why you would be offended.

Elijah Georges

11/18/2014 02:41:54 pm

I'd like to express my standpoint on the topic of gun violence. There was a solid stream of stories about school shooting about a year ago. These stories kicked up dust from the not-so-really-spoken-about issue of gun violence. Sure a law was passed that put restrictions on gun holders and whatnot, but I still feel like something is left unattended. These school shootings and misuses of fire arms are still very, very real, but the media thinks we have been sorta desensitized and it's true. We've past this boom of school shootings stories and now all we say is- " oh that's bad. I wish things will get better. ". I want to ask, what will make things better? Stricter laws? No guns? Higher security? There's just too many accusations on substance. What about them. Those who are mentally distressed enough to murder. Aren't they really doing the damage? Guns don't kill people. People kill people. I say the best thing we can do is have check-ins on the mental state of gun owners maybe annually and certainly when firearms are purchased. Sure it's a pain in the butt, but it's something to consider. I feel strongly on the topic, and I encourage responses alongside or against me. Thank you.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 03:40:18 pm

Agreed, Elijah. The part where it says,"Guns don't kill people. People kill people" is really true (i think ive heard it from somewhere). Guns don't pick themselves up and shoot people for no reason. Instead, another person lifts it up and pulls the trigger.

Jason Hernandez

11/18/2014 03:25:57 pm

I know this is a very late response, but i think a big problem with our country, society, neighborhoods, ect. Is how everything has changed throughout our country, it was not like this lets say 15-20 years ago. Lets say music. Music was fine back then barely any swears in them, they actually gave a message, now?! now it's ridiculous in how these songs don;t even have any message and if their is one its an extremely innapropriate. I can make a pretty good guess that most songs did not have a line about rape? Money? KIlling? It's really sad seeing 5 year olds having to hear this kind of music. THERE WASN'T EVEN RAP BACK THEN!! And now, any rap song that you can find will almost always have a swear word that children shouldn't really be hearing, and this brings me to lack of parental control. CP is a good example of parents that care about their actual daughters, or sons, but outside of our school their a lot of parents that SUCK. How is it possible that i see 16, 15, even 14 year olds smoking or other crap like that. That is just one of many examples of parents that simply do not care about what their child is doing. You need to teach your child the ways of living life successfully, you OBVIOUSLY cannot expect your child to automatically know what to even do in their lives. I've literally seen 16yr olds with guns?! In fact I even got almost shot by a what 17 yr old with a pistol! It makes me realize that parents are not teaching their child what good things to do and what bad, yea like riding a motorbike back and forth a street or learning hot to shoot from a gun is gonna help your child, PUT THEM IN A GOOD ENVIRONMENT FOR GOD SAKE! That fired me up. The first comment i saw was Musahs above and yes this is a big problem in calling certain things gay for no reason. This actually goes back into the first part of this book long response that back then you didn't really hear this word being said, and now you can't go 20 minutes on broad street without hearing this word. This also relates to that parents don't care in what their children are saying these days. This is in fact a big problem and it disgusts me any time i hear this word being said for no reason, along with any other words that shouldn't really be said in the school (Rarely) and outside the school of ours (A LOT) Im giving you guys a mix of problems well i got one last one to shoot at you. How is it possible that i see a 6yr old with an iphone?! Again parents that don;t know what theyre doing but thats their problem. Its unacceptable to be seeing a child with an iphone, idk what that benefits from a 6 or 7 yr old, but i feel like this is a big problem. Thanks to anyone if you even read this, and a special thanks if you comment. These are just a few of MANY problems not just America but the world faces today.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 03:46:00 pm

you could actually sense the rage and anger in your response. It was really well planned out and everything. However, you can't really blame the parents about EVERYTHING can ya? they came from a different generation of people and expect their children to be like them cause they are their spawns, after all. Also the smoking part. Although i agree with you that parents should take better care, it's usually the kids that have parents that are working all day smoking. The parent trusts them to be mature and not smoke, but they smoke because their parents are gone for almost the entire day. Sorry for sort of hating on your post.

Musah S.

11/18/2014 09:23:54 pm

There wasn't rap back then? They probably had some other sort of hypersexual, money centric style of music. Doesn't every generation have their problems?..

Olivia Y

11/18/2014 11:51:52 pm

Yes, Musah. There was rap. It's called the Beastie Boys.

Jason Hernandez

11/19/2014 03:26:48 pm

Every generation has their problems, but back then i believe they were far less problematic than todays

Lourdes Monteiro

11/18/2014 03:34:35 pm

*I'm honestly so angry bc i had a really long and meaningful post and now I have to try and remember it bc it didn't upload bt w/e*

My topic is stereotypes and ignorance. There are so many jokes that have become part of our generations culture. Jokes that are just immoral. I don't want to sound like a hypocrite and say that I haven’t made most of the jokes below, because I have.
I hear alot about Ebola. I hear alot of jokes about Ebola and blacks too. The other day I heard someone say “ Dont touch me, you have Ebola.” So, we can make jokes about disease that kill thousands of people? No, because if you make a cancer or AIDS joke, you are the most heartless and soulless person on Earth. Another thing is that people are only associating Ebola with black people. um, guys? There was a white doctor and nurse’s aid who were diagnosed with Ebola and survived. But, because if began in Africa, it’s a black people disease.Why? Ignorance, that’s why.

Another stereotype is thots or sluts. Literally, both of those terms have been thrown out like they are everyday words for people that you can see all the time. NO! But, apparently, thots can be a girl singing Beyonce, a girl wearing a crop top and high waisted shorts. YEET. Girls can wear whatever they want. They should be able to be confident without being mixed up as a sex symbol. Guys are on billboards in their boxers, but that’s normal? Can we not.

Another stereotype is that women belong in the kitchen, EXCUSE ME?! #YEET. I like to cook, but I can throw down too. I like washing dishes, but I will put hot sauce in your apple cider*. I like sweeping sometimes, but I will not clean up after you like you are a monkey. A woman belongs wherever she wants to be. Women should not be oppressed by a stereotype that limits them to being the cook, maid, wife, and mother of a household. Women can do anything men can, sometimes even better. Men throughout time have been put on a pedestal and it some cases, women have yet to rise to the occasion.

The last part of my rant is what I think is one of the worst stereotypes. LGBT’s are people, not adjectives. Someone can be gay, but not something. You know what I mean? Some people say “ That’s so gay,” and when I call them out about it they say, “ No, it means happy.” Okay, I get that that is a definition for gay, but that is not what you meant. People should just learn to accept people. A man can love a man, and a woman can love a woman. A man can become a woman, and a woman can become a man.The LGBT community is small but rising. Another thing is that you can’t just assume that someone is gay because of how they look, sound, act, ect. I hate it when someone says that so-and-so is gay or lesbian because they sound like it, look like it, or act like it. BRUH. It’s the 21st Century! Let your Freak Flag Fly! America is the land of freedom. They literally should add in on the statue of Liberty”... and anyone else who falls under the category of people.” We are human! How we feel and identify ourselves is our business, and no one else’s. I hope that if I joined the LGBT community, people would accept me just the same. That people wouldn’t see me as a different person because of my preferences because I wouldn’t dream of thinking like that about another person. #byefelicia.

I dont’ have any solutions to these problems accept that people should really start speaking up and using the First Amendment. People should start defending others instead of discriminating.

*inside joke.

Allen Ly link

11/18/2014 04:05:16 pm

Although i do not understand your "internet language" such as thot, i agree with you completely, especially on the first one. Everything's just a joke. Ebola is a joke, so is AIDS. Why though? Because they haven't experienced it. They don't know how much pain it causes, and they make fun of it. It also applies to cancer. When people are commenting on things such as youtube, they often argue.
"Oh this guy is really cool and awesome and makes me laugh! I like him"
Then other people jump in and say:
"Oh he swears a crapton. Why do you even like this asshole he swears a lot. I hope he gets cancer and dies."
Oh yes. Cancer is now a thing we can say casually, like its nothing. But they don't understand the pain of losing someone. THEY JUST DON'T GET IT. Then, when it happens to them, its suddenly not funny anymore.
It's true that guys are usually more exposed than women, yet men aren't called out for it. Yet, when girls have slightly more clothes, they are called out and called things such as a slut. Pretty unfair cause the term usually is used against women and not men. You don't hear guys walking up to other guys and saying,"WOW! You're so exposed, you slut!" Instead its said to girls when they have more clothes on than men.
You stated everything in the LGBT rant. So ya
ANDDD... WOMEN IN THE KITCHEN. Super unfair. This was all centuries ago when women cleaned the house, nursed the baby, and cooked. Now its centuries later and we still make jokes about it. That is just sad and a fail on society's part. And the truth is, guys are jealous they don't know how to cook. Anyways great post.

Lili Sanzo

11/18/2014 03:41:15 pm

Alright so I just spent a long time looking at all of the posts and comments and as a general comment; may we do this for our town meeting?
Originally I was going to do my topic on racism and then I saw all of the sexism posts and I had an epiphany! I said to myself "what do I think to be the root of all these problems?". I thought about it for a while and I eventually came to the conclusion that the cause of most of these is the media. In the media women are portrayed as 'sluts' and men are not. In the media they have issues about the 'Scandalous' celebrity who came out as gay, which thus makes us think that gays are to be viewed upon as a novelty. This also makes people view them as if they were caged animals. People, teenagers especially, are subject to a lot of self-loathing because of the media. I know this is said a lot, but the people on tv or in magazines, are not real, they are airbrushed and Photoshopped. I know in one instance a television show made a characters voice deeper. These are all fake appearances and I think girls especially are more targeted to buy these hair products or that skin product. They target these girls by portraying a perfect girl on their product in a magazine. There is sort of a pattern to this: companies target products, the pictures on the product are fake, people feel self conscious, and the company has room for a new product. Also, one more topic to add to my rambling rant is models. Models are mostly white. From what I've seen a model is supposed to be a white female. I think the media world needs to be shaken up a bit. Sorry for the rambling confusion. Hang on, I've just had a thought, the modeling industry and the portrayal of people is like a monopoly for your brain. They slowly consume it bit by bit until they've one you over entirely.

Mason Reyes

11/19/2014 05:29:45 am

I don’t really understand the question Olivia, but I’ll attempt! I think problems in America that I’m passionate about are obesity, and women rights. Obesity is one of the biggest problems in America. McDonalds kills kids, but kids need to eat something for not a lot of money. Kids need food to survive and live but if prices for other foods are high, then their only option is food that is cheap such as: McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s, etc. Kids shouldn’t be suffering from something they can’t take control of. The huge obesity conflict can be changed, but we need everybody to cooperate.

The other problem about women not having the same respect as men do, just really pisses me off. Women take on most of the controlling in families, and they can do the same with everything else. To be honest, I think a female can handle being a president and actually take control of the country better than men. Hillary Clinton could be the best president the U.S has ever had, and she can actually make the U.S a more organized.

Kyle Nguyen link

10/6/2022 10:48:01 pm

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