The Ethics of Living Jim Crow

                Every child learns about racism and the Civil Rights movement during their academic years. I think it is important to hear about first- hand accounts of racism from those who lived it. Richard’s essay told his personal experience with the Jim Crow Laws, which were a set a prejudice and unjust laws put in action to limit the rights of African Americans.

                What I found interesting about Richard’s essay was how he told about his “education” of the Jim Crow Laws. His first encounter was when he was a young boy throwing cinders at the white boys. His mother informed him that he was right to get hit with a milk bottle and gave him a severe beating. Later in the essay he talks about various jobs he held, such as working at the optical factory or the store. What attracted my attention was the way he presented his “education”. He seemed naïve about the Jim Crow Laws, especially when he confided in his black companions. Richard seemed like the only one who was surprised about what was happening and even questioned if these laws were right. An example is when the store owner’s son beat up the black woman and when Richard asked one of his friends about it, they replied, “Hell, it’s a wonder they didn't lay her when they got through.” (pg. 6).

                Another startling aspect of this essay that stuck to me was how the black people were so nonchalant about the treatment of their peers. They seemed lifeless and drained, almost brainwashed to believe that they were indeed lower than the whites and they somehow deserved this treatment. I guess after growing up with the laws, they didn't question, but simply accepted them as the way of life and how things were always going to be.

                Again I want to stress how Richard seemed to be the sole one questioning the Jim Crow Laws. Maybe that’s how it all starts though, simply by a person asking a question. Is this right? How do you think the Civil Rights movement started? People were fed up with the mistreatment. I would like to think the Civil Rights movement began with those similar to Richard. Even though he began to accept them when he moved to the hotel, I would like to bring you back to his childhood when he was naïve. You can see the possibility of change in him, and that’s what inspires others and me.