Racism

    As I continue to read Zinn's book, I get more and more amazed at the reality of our country's history. It is clear to me that racism has existed since the beginning of the United States history however I did not quite understand the reasons and the severity. As a Catholic it makes me so sad to see that even the priests and bishops did not see any wrong in having slaves. How could they go on with this seeing how they were being treated? If they knew that God loves everyone the same way why did they continue to do it?
The hardest part for me to understand is how the slaves were brought to the Americas. How can people be so cruel and put them in those conditions? So many died and yet they continued to bring in more and more because they were still getting profit. Zinn mentions that Africa lost 50 million citizens due to death and slavery.
    The natives in Mexico, the natives in the U.S., and the African slaves were all treated in a very cruel way by people of "white skin". Why? For the simple fact that they were dark skinned, different and not from Europe like everyone else. The more I think about it it angers me to think that even after all those deaths and all that cruelty, segregation lasted until the 20th century and racism still goes on today. History is there to teach us a lesson, to remind us of the mistakes we have made in the past, and to guide us towards a better future. Didn't we learn from our ancestors? Why did segregation continue and why does racism still exist today? Even if racism towards African Americans is diminishing, hatred towards Hispanics is increasing. With illegal immigration Americans are becoming more and more resentful towards the hispanic community. We not only see if in our citizens but also in our leaders. The presidential candidates are stressing their plans on immigration and their views on that issue are the ones that will determine their future. I will leave you guys with two videos on racism and immigration. Tell me what y'all think :)