Personal Experiences with Racism: A Lifelong Journey of Awareness and Resilience
First-Hand Accounts
Racism is a complex and pervasive issue that has no geographical or cultural boundaries. In my life, I have witnessed instances of racism that stand out as significant and impactful. My experiences have been both in the United States and Europe, reflecting the global nature of this issue.
Racism at Norfolk Naval Shipyard
My first brush with significant racism occurred during my time at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) in Portsmouth, Virginia, in 2016. Eager to start my career as an engineer, I attended the New Engineering Orientation (NEO), which served as a two-month training program tailored to Navy culture, nuclear reactors, and the shipyard operations.
Despite my rigorous efforts to perform well during the training, I was not selected for the prestigious Nuclear Testing Engineering branch. During the interview process, a white male, around 50 years old, told me that good grades were essential. However, my failure to secure a spot in the branch was attributed to factors beyond my control. The director stated that I was 'not a good fit for the waterfront.' This phrase was as ambiguous as it was offensive.
My story doesn't end there. Upon joining the branch that required paperwork, I faced another incident. My colleagues heard that a new engineer 'couldn't speak English,' a blatant misunderstanding fueled by my Latin American accent. This brush with discrimination, rooted in stereotypes and cultural misunderstandings, underscores the pervasive nature of racism in professional settings.
Racism in Brno, Czech Republic
Another instance of racism that left a lasting impact on me happened in Brno, Czech Republic, in the fall of 2018. On my birthday, I walked on the street with my Slovakian girlfriend, and an angry man confronted us. While the incident could have ended tragically, my girlfriend's swift actions saved us from harm. This episode reminded me of the widespread hostility and prejudice that can exist even within a country's cultural framework.
When I discussed this incident with my girlfriend, she expressed her anger and frustration. She explained that the man's behavior was rooted in backward ideas and that such prejudice is a part of the heritage of the region. Her perspective highlighted the intersection of personal and national identities in the face of racism.
Understanding and Dealing with Racism
My experiences have taught me that racism is an ever-present issue that demands ongoing awareness and action. It is my belief that we must challenge these biases actively, educate ourselves, and support others who face discrimination.
While the world is becoming more interconnected, as evidenced by my experiences in both the US and Europe, racism still persists. This has made me realize that I must remain vigilant and continue to advocate for equity and justice.
Looking ahead, my goal is to use my experiences to inform and shape plans for my future. I am particularly interested in moving to Europe after completing my PhD, as I have a deep affection for the region. My love for Europe remains strong, and I am hopeful that it will continue to evolve into a more inclusive and understanding society.