Minority In A Box

        I have not been writing as much since school is in session, but this post is the result of some things that have been said in different classes I am currently taking. In diversity, one of the key points is how minorities are unable to be properly represented because of their lack of numbers. As a result, changes can be made that affect them without them being able to do anything about it. One the other hand, I have heard in my law class that some minority groups’ perspective do not reflect the majority and should not have an effect on citizens’ lives, i.e. the Tea Party.

        The case Schuette v. Coalition to Defend Affirmative Action was brought to the courts after fifty-eight percent of Michigan voters approved a ballot proposal in 2006, which banned racial, ethnic or sex-based preferential treatment in public education admissions, government contracting and public employment. However the plaintiff in this case is attempting to overturn the initiative under the argument that Michigan violated the Equal Protection Clause by banning affirmative action in its constitution. They are also using the argument that because the proposal was in regards to minorities, it would be impossible for the minorities to vote against the change because they do not have the numbers to do so.

   People’s hearts bleed for stories like this, it touches on people’s compassion and search for justice. While I believe it is right for people to have a voice, I believe this is only acceptable in our culture if it is the right minority group being vocal. It is okay when the minority is in regards to race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation, but if it is a minority in their opinion or faith, society pulls out the duct tape. I believe a minority opinion deserves as much respect and the chance to be heard as any other minority of race or lifestyle choice. Why does our culture glorify other minorities but rolls their eyes at the Tea Party? Minority status is not exclusive to religion or race, but to opinion as well. Our culture not only encourages the voice of a racial minority, but it elevates it, while someone with a minority opinion is shamed.
      I am in no way disrespecting minorities, I am only pointing out the slanted view of who is a minority and who in that category deserves to be heard. I think it is time to call out this double-standard. Minority status encompasses so much more than what our culture allows.

 

Photo credit: J.M. Photography