An assignment in Planning class. We had to write an essay on discrimination, and meet certain criteria. thought I'd post it up here. I wrote it really quickly, twenty minutes or so, and didn't proofread it, so it's not my best.Any response is appreciated, including constructive criticism
An ongoing, and constant problem in society is our lack of respect for those different than us. To bring attention to one specific problem, the ostracism faced by those practicing religions that are considered “strange”
Anything different from the widely worshiped religions, such as Christianity, Buddhism, or Islam may receive unwanted negative attention. Practitioners of Wiccan, or Paganism are often humiliated, ignored, or in extreme cases, disowned. This has led to most people of such religions keeping their beliefs a secret, even from close friends and family. When the secret is finally revealed(often referred to as “coming out of the broom closet”) the reactions can be shocking.
We must ask ourselves, why is it that being different is seen as such a horrendous thing? I believe it is due to the misunderstanding, and ignorance of some people. Many, if asked what a wiccan or pagan does, would reply something about devil-worshipping and dancing naked at night. Others might think back to the infamous Salem Witch Trials. It is this lack of knowledge that causes such reactions, and if the accusers would give those who take their beliefs seriously, perhaps they would be more understanding and less persecuting. It is not money that is the root of all evil, but ignorance. Understanding others, and things different from your own beliefs is the key to peace.
The reason for my insight on this subject is simple, and might be shocking. I, myself am Pagan. Yes, I do not worship the devil, or dance naked at night. I simply believe in a pantheon of gods, and magick. While, I have told only a few people, the ones I have told have asked a few questions and moved on. However, I fear the day when the topic comes up with my parents, and how I will explain it to them. I sincerely hope that in the future, religious prejudice will become obsolete, but that is a long way off.
If this essay has changed your opinion, or given you knowledge on paganism, then it has had an impact, then I have achieved something worthwhile. We are all human, and we must share this world, and anger, ignorance and intolerence only affect things negatively.
