Islanders must engage in uncomfortable conversations | My Turn
Published 12:00 pm Thursday, May 5, 2016
As I grow older, I begin to recognize my fortune and discover that the place where I’ve grown up does not necessarily encompass the character of the rest of the world. Despite the isolation the safe haven of Mercer Island has provided, I am starting to see that greater problems exist off the Island.
After years of parents, teachers and school administrators tediously relaying to me that certain people are unjustly discriminated against, I believe I speak for my fellow students when I acknowledge that we as humans have a problem with discrimination. I can safely say that most people on the Island understand this fact.
However, no one should feel proud of simply an “understanding.” Though we’ve mostly succeeded in recognizing that there is a problem, we cannot become numb to the pursuit of equality. Just because we are quarantined by a lake teeming with yachts, we are not excused from a discussion about privilege. We, as Islanders, must now participate in the conversation. It is our responsibility to listen to the issues of our generation and actively use our words to work out a feasible solution.
Lucky for you, opportunities to fulfill this responsibility have been provided. My friend and fellow sophomore at Mercer Island High School, Arwa Mokdad, hosted a panel and discussion on Islam titled, “Islam: What do You Want to Know?” The April 23 event presented Islanders with the opportunity to learn about a persecuted religion and discuss what we can do to help.
The panel, made up of Muslims, ranged from a University of Washington student to a local Imam. The panelists explained the main principals of the religion while addressing what it’s like to be a Muslim during this age of severe Islamophobia. The intelligent panelists asserted that peaceful Muslims are not the exception, they are the norm.
The event was a part of a series titled “Conversations for Strong Communities.” The idea behind the series is to correct misconceptions by engaging the community in difficult conversations in a safe environment. The next event you can catch is a workshop and discussion “Why We Need to Talk About Racism” at 2 p.m. May 7 at the Mercer Island Presbyterian Church. Then, join a panel of Mercer Island residents to discuss stereotypes at “Who Are We?” at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 21 at the Mercer Island Congregational Church. The Stanley Ann Dunham Scholarship Awards will follow the panel at 2 p.m. on May 21.
Take advantage of this opportunity and participate in the dialogue. Uncomfortable conversations are imperative to improving the community and ourselves.
Julia Graham is a Mercer Island High School senior.
