Track Record

Welcome back, joyous souls, inquisitive minds, and harmonious hearts, to another chapter in the Past, Present, & Future series. Today I am sharing something a little different. Last week, I dove into several sociology theories I explored in my Racial & Ethnic Relations class. This week’s focus comes from the same class, but from a more personal lens. While it does not pertain to the same assignment, it was a consistent part of the course.

Throughout the semester, we were asked to keep a journal. Its purpose? To help us become more aware of how often race comes up in everyday life. And since I did not have much direct experience to draw from, I approached the assignment by paying attention to the world around me. I began tracking the moments when others mentioned someone’s race, whether casually, subtly, or with emphasis. These were not necessarily hostile or harmful interactions, but they made me realize how often race is brought into conversations, sometimes without a second thought. The journal became a sort of logbook with a portion of it being part observation and the other being part reflection.

At the end of the semester, we were also required to write a paper based on our findings. While I will be sharing that paper once these reflections are concluded, today, I want to focus solely on the journal itself. Because sometimes, the details we overlook or think are significant end up revealing more than we expect.

As we get ready to uncover some of my most personal entries to date, one I have not even looked back on since first submitting the journal, I invite you to read with an open mind and heart. These moments may seem small, but they carry weight. They reflect not just what was said, but what was felt, questioned, and quietly stored away.

Here is a glimpse into those pages from snapshots of conversations, observations, and experiences that, over time, shaped my understanding of how race is spoken about in everyday life.

Before we begin, here are a few quick notes: I did not include date or times for the journal entries. And while the original journal entries mentioned names, I have chosen to remove them here out of respect for privacy. In addition to that, some of these entries do not contain immediate reflections. Instead, it is something I explored more deeply in the reflection paper, which I will be sharing in a couple week’s time. So, stay tuned! For now, what you will read is what I recorded right in the moment.

Let’s begin.

The first entry reads as follows:

“On the way to a meet, a teammate starts ranting about how nasty a Dairy Queen is, at least, while she worked there. She went on and on about how the business was owned by an Indian family. As she kept going, another teammate chimed in with, ‘pulling out the race card.’ It seemed directed at her, but she did not seem to notice or maybe she just did not care. Either way, more of the team joined in, making jokes and laughing, even throwing in a few racial remarks between themselves.”

At the time, I did not know what to say or how to respond. I wrote it down because it felt wrong, but I was not equipped with the language or courage to speak up. I was still learning what racism looked like in everyday conversations, especially subtle or normalized forms like this.

Now, looking back, I see how this was a clear example of casual racism and group compliance. The discomfort I felt was valid. And while I understand why I stayed silent then, I also recognize how important it is to challenge harmful behavior, even when it is uncomfortable. That kind of silence can unintentionally allow prejudice to go unchecked.

Going forward, my hope is that more people feel empowered to step in, whether it is calling that behavior out, redirecting the conversation, or simply choosing not to participate. I want to be someone who uses my awareness to stand up, not just in big moments, but in everyday ones too. And I hope we create more spaces where “harmful” jokes are no longer laughed at, but reflected on and corrected with compassion and accountability.

Journal Entry #2

“One day in Biology class, our teacher casually asked how everyone’s weekend was. A classmate of mine responded, “When I let a customer take an item back, he called me racist.” I further noted that this classmate was white, and from the few interactions I had with him on campus, he always seemed nice.”

At the time, I did not think much of the comment. I simply noted it and moved on, likely because I was not sure how to process it or what to make of it. I think I assumed he meant no harm because I had only ever seen a friendly side of him, and maybe that made me hesitant to question his words or perspective.

Looking back now, I can see how quick we can be to dismiss or downplay racial undertones, especially when they come from someone we perceive as “nice.” His comment may have been a defensive reaction, or maybe it came from a place of frustration, but it is also a reminder that people can have blind spots, even when they do not intend harm. It also highlights how easy it is for racism to be misunderstood or misused is casual conversation.

My hope is that we all grow more thoughtful in how we respond to conversations about race, whether we are the ones experiencing it, witnessing it, or even being confronted by it. I hope we learn not to shy away from unpacking what is said, and instead lean into it with curiosity, compassion, and the willingness to understand more deeply.

Entry #3

“Although it was meant to be funny, as said by a comedian during the VMA’s, who said this: ‘They asked me if I wanted to perform at the VMA’s, and I said there are going to be a lot of fat asses at the award show. So I will be present, but you have to put me up after someone who’s white. So thank you [musician’s name] for being so white.”

This comment made me uncomfortable. While I understand comedians often poke fun at a wide range of diverse groups, this one felt unnecessary and not funny to me. It seemed more like a cheap shot than a clever joke.

At the time, I recognized the comment did not sit right with me. It was why I wrote it down. But other than that, I did not feel as though I had influence or a platform to really make a difference nor did I know how to start that conversation.

Today, I think more critically about how I express myself whether it is in conversation, writing, or even humor. I try to consider different perspectives and possibilities before speaking. While I still get things wrong (because I do not claim to know everything), I believe the most important thing is to stay curious. Being open to other mindsets, ideas, and lived experiences helps me grow, and sometimes, it even changes my mind. At the end of the day, we are all responsible for our words and actions. And while intent matters, I have learned there is a big difference between provoking thought and provoking harm.

Looking ahead, my hope is that we continue moving forward toward more situational humor. Because not only do I find it to be the most relatable and hilarious, but it also has the power to bring us together. Rather than centering jokes on features or identity traits we cannot change about ourselves (even if we wanted too), situational humor invites shared experience and connection. It builds bridges instead of reinforcing divides. We can still laugh, still be clever, and still be honest without making someone else the punchline.

Journal Entry #4

This entry reflected on two tragic events that happened around the same time: one involving a Black male killed by a white officer, which gained national attention, and another involving a white male killed by a Black officer, which received significantly less coverage. The journal notes a quote from an article that claimed, “In the current climate of the U.S., a Black person can never be the oppressor, and a white person can never be the victim.” While I did not agree with the idea that one group can never be the oppressor, I did reflect on how, at the time, it felt difficult to express certain views as a white person without being misunderstood. In this particular class, for example, I worried that sharing my opinion might come off as bragging or insensitive. Ultimately, I believed then, and still do, that both events were tragedies, and each deserved attention, compassion, and a push for solutions so that such incidents do not continue to repeat.”

At the time I wrote this, I was trying to make sense of how two tragic events could be handled so differently in the media and in public conversation. I felt conflicted. I did not yet have the tools or language to explore those feelings with more nuance. I was navigating the discomfort of wanting to express my perspective without sounding dismissive of others’ pain.

Today, I approach these situations with more awareness. Specifically those that shape public reaction and media attention. I had learned that not all disparities in coverage are simply about race. More so, it is often patterns of power, systematic injustice, and the stories we are told (or not told). I now recognize that acknowledging the grief of one group does not diminish the loss experienced by another. Holding space for all lives impacted by violence, regardless of race, matters. But it is also important to understand why certain communities have to fight harder to be heard.

Going forward, my hope is that we continue to build spaces, both online and offline, where people can talk about sensitive issues without fear of being silenced or misunderstood. I hope we learn to hold multiple truths at once: that we can feel empathy across differences, listen with humility and curiosity, and be open to learning more about the experience of others. More than anything, I hope the focus shifts from comparison to compassion, and from defensiveness to shared accountability for a better, more informed society.

Journal Entry #5

This entry captures another conversation I overheard between a few teammates. One teammate was once again making jokes or comments aimed at an Indian family. This time, the conversation expanded as other teammates joined in. The tone quickly turned dismissive and mockingly patriotic. They joked that the Latin American Club should not exist because “this is America,” even going as far as saying “America” was misspelled. Another person added, “Come to America and do not learn the language. My parents did but my grandparents did not,” followed by someone else saying, “Forget about them.”

At the time, I remember feeling unsure and kind of confused about where all this hatred was coming from. I always thought highly of the Latin American Club as well as all the other diverse groups on campus. So hearing these jokes and dismissive comments caught me off guard. But since I was not Latina, I did not feel like the right person to advocate even thought I knew the comments were inappropriate. The situation felt surreal. More so, like something out of a movie rather than something happening right in front of me.

Reflecting back, I remember feeling unsure and a little lost. I did not feel like it was my place to speak up. I did not think I had the right words, the experience, or even a voice that anyone would care to hear. I believed that unless I had personally lived though something, I could not really advocate for others, and because of that, I often stayed quiet. Instead, I reflected quietly and came to my own conclusions.

The comments were not just wrong, they were excluding. It is not okay to dismiss someone’s heritage, language, or cultural background. While I do believe some level of assimilation is necessary, especially in a country as diverse as the United States, I do not believe that should come at the cost of someone’s identity. People should not feel pressures to erase who they are in order to belong. Instead, we should support and uplight those who are learning the language, navigating the laws, and adjusting to a new environment. That kind of encouragement fosters true inclusion. Because real belonging is not about fitting into a mold, it is about being accepted and valued just as you are.

In the future, my hope is that we create more spaces on campuses, in communities, and in conversations, where people do not feel like they have to choose between blending in and being themselves. I want to see a future where learning the language or customs of a new place is celebrated alongside honoring where someone comes from. In time, I hope that cultural identity will not be seen as a barrier but as an added strength. A place where curiosity replaces judgement, and support replaces shame. I may not have spoken up in the past, but I hope my continued learning and reflection encourages others to stand up, speak out, or simply support those who need it most.

Entry #6

While watching Australia’s Got Talent on Youtube, I came across a video of a seven year old boy performing impressively. In the comments section, someone wrote, “He is so good because he is Asian,” referencing the stereotype that Asians are naturally intelligent or especially skilled in areas like math and science. Another commenter pushed back, replying, “Just because someone is Asian does not automatically make them good at something. They are talented at what they do because they work really hard for it.” A third person chimed in adding, “Asian people are generally more hardworking, that is probably why. But like he said, no race is inherently superior, maybe genes, but not race.”

At the time, I did not think too deeply about how these comments reflected larger societal stereotypes. I was more focused on capturing the moment for the assignment. I remember thinking, “Well, at least someone stopped up and said it was because of hard work.” But I did not fully understand how even well-intended comments could still reinforce harmful assumptions. I did not know how to challenge those views, especially online, and I was not sure if it was even my place to say anything. So I just took note of it and moved on.

Looking back, I see that even positive stereotypes can be damaging. Saying someone is good at something “because they are Asian” reduces their success to race rather than recognizing their individuality, effort, or dedication. It also creates pressure no others who identify as Asian to meet unrealistic expectations. While it may seem like a compliment, it put people into boxes and ignores the nuances of personal talent and discipline. It is something I have experienced myself.

My hope going forward is that we move toward celebrating individuals for who they are. Not because of the groups they belong to, but because of their unique qualities, efforts, and achievements. I hope we continue to challenge stereotypes, even the “positive” ones, and make room for everyone to define themselves beyond labels. Whether in entertainment, school, or work, people should be free to be seen as more than just representatives of a group. Because in the end, true equity comes from recognizing the person behind the performance, not just the narrative others want to attach to them.

Instead of sharing any further, I have decided to close this post out here. Revisiting these journal entries has been an emotional, eye-opening journey. One I have not taken since the day I submitted this assignment. While this has been uncomfortable at times, it is necessary to reflect on the past. Especially in order to move on. These moments captured here within, may seem small in isolation, but together they tell a bigger story about race, perception, and the power of observation. This post is not just a reflection of what I witnessed, but of what I have carried with me, and how it continues to shape how I move through the world.

Next week, I will share more entries from this same class. From there, I will take these observations and try to make sense of them through broader reflection. Until then, thank you for reading, reflecting, and showing up with an open mind and heart.

If this post sparked something in you whether through reflection, discomfort, or curiosity, I invite you to join me next week as I share the paper I wrote from this journal. In it, I explore the patterns, unpack what I observed, and examine how these seemingly small moments fit into much larger conversation about race, identity, and awareness.

New post drops Monday, July 1st, 2025. Feel free to share your own reflections or reactions in the comments, I would love to hear from you. Let’s keep learning, unlearning, and growing together.

As a signature of my blog, I’d like to end this post with a suggestion to “Pass on kindness.” There’s no time like the present to Inspire Those Who Inspire You. Acts of kindness, no matter how big or small, can have a direct, positive impact on someone else. Go out there today and change someone’s life for the better!

***These are my personal opinions and may not be those of my employer.***