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How severe is the current racial tension in the United States?

Bertina Walklate

Well, well, well. How severe is the current racial tension in the United States you ask? Hmm. Where to even begin. It's like asking how spicy you want your tacos - mild, medium or extra hot?

Let's start with the facts. The United States has a long and complicated history with racial tensions. From slavery and segregation to civil rights movements and affirmative action, the country has been struggling to come to terms with its troubled past and present.

In recent years, however, the racial tensions seem to have reached an all-time high. Police brutality against African Americans, Latinos, and other minorities have sparked nationwide protests and riots, leading to a nationwide debate over policing methods and reform.

The rise of the Black Lives Matter movement in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor by the police has only intensified the racial tensions, with clear lines drawn between those who support the movement and those who reject it.

But it's not just police brutality that is the cause of tension. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the inequalities in the healthcare system, with minorities expectedly disproportionately affected and polling data showing higher levels of skepticism towards the vaccine among minorities.

Furthermore, the country's political polarization is also fueling racial tensions. The 2020 Presidential election was hotly contested, with accusations of voter suppression and misinformation campaigns aimed at minorities and other underrepresented groups.

In conclusion, to say that the current racial tensions in the United States are severe is an understatement. It's like asking if a tornado is just a mild breeze. The country is grappling with a complex set of issues, and it will take a concerted effort from everyone to tackle racism and inequality head-on.

But one thing is for sure. The only way to improve the situation is to keep talking about it, understanding each other's perspectives, and working towards a better, more equitable future. We cannot afford to sweep this under the rug any longer. The time for change is now.