America has long been known for its diverse society, with countless cultures and subcultures thriving in cities across the map. By the same token, an underlying current of racism affects many non-white citizens, especially the country’s Muslim population. Although terroristic threats are a real safety risk in today’s world — including West Virginia — the racial profiling that occurs behind the scenes can inflict serious damage, as well.
As many have experienced first-hand, racial tension is no secret in today’s society. The Washington Post reported around the time of Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign that the now-president’s plans regarding the combat against terrorism involved racial profiling as a necessary step. While this instance was hardly the first time the president has mentioned this strategy, he has also criticized immigration policies of the past. Trump continues to suggest aggressive methods of addressing the country’s terroristic issues in current reports.
Acts of terrorism around the world most certainly deserve serious time and thought; however, is America looking at the problem from the wrong angle? The Atlantic takes a look at the effects racial profiling and false accusations can have on an individual, pointing out that minorities in the nation could become especially vulnerable. Calling profiling a “knee-jerk prejudice,” The Atlantic goes on to remind its audience that the Boston Marathon bombing resulted in the false accusations of three innocent individuals. All dark-skinned, these men struggled to maintain their reputations under the powerful media spotlight. According to The Atlantic, it is not merely responsible journalists that the country severely needs; it is also a responsible American public. By better understanding the stereotyping that takes place every day, West Virginians and the rest of the nation can make life easier for those who have suffered from racial profiling.
