Racism is ubiquitous. We see it everywhere around us and most people experience it first-hand. A subject so serious and influential that it makes us question humanity itself. People’s potential, hopes and dreams wasted just because of set stereotypes.
Almost all races experience racism and it usually doesn’t matter in which corner of the world. As racism can come in many forms, sometimes being disguised as jokes, expectations and praise rather than offensive terminology.
While we can’t speak for the people who go through it daily, the least we can do is ask them what it actually is and how it affects them. This article encapsulates the story of a young Chinese girl called Luxi.
Luxi has lived in Slovakia (Eastern Europe) for 9 years. Despite being born here, she moved away to China before coming back for pre-school. She had a hard time learning the language and being accepted into the harsh environment.
What was the hardest part of growing up in a foreign environment?
“I had to learn the language [Slovak]. Additionally, I had to learn English and German for school while attending a Chinese school during the weekends. It was also extremely hard to find a group or find some friends I could trust that could help me out.”
What did you miss the most about China or still do?
“I miss the culture. That includes food, family and friends. Many holidays and traditions didn’t exist in Slovakia and so we had to make-shift our own to try and stay connected to our roots. No matter how interesting and enriching Slovak traditions were, they never filled that special place in my heart that felt like home.”
What were the good things about moving to Slovakia?
“The best part about moving to Slovakia were the opportunities it brought. I know the level of education and academic results were higher in China, but the extreme and toxic school environments would’ve ruined me completely. Here, the pressure isn’t as bad and now that I’ve integrated well-enough I actually enjoy learning.”
Have you ever felt unwelcome in Slovakia due to your ethnicity?
“Of course. They always thought highly of themselves and looked down upon foreigners – I experienced that often. They assumed I was a dead-weight that wouldn’t really contribute to their country and just saw some person trying to infiltrate and change their culture. However, now that I’ve found friends I can confidently say I feel that way much less.”
What advice would you give to someone experiencing racial discrimination?
“Don’t blame yourself for it. It’s their fault for being uneducated and not seeing diversity as a strength. Your uniqueness and power to overcome such norms will always win if you believe in yourself and don’t let other people bring you down. Never change your culture and traditions for someone else’s comfort.”
What is one thing you would say to people who act negatively towards certain races/ethnicities?
“This is your problem, not mine. I don’t choose my nationality or my ethnicity, therefore you have no right to judge me for it either. There is no reason or benefit for you bringing negativity down upon other people just because of different genetics. Imagine how you’d feel if someone hated on you almost every day because of something that’s nature’s doing. We don’t need for people to be further divided than they already are.”
