Changing America
Every civilised society has system of law by which certain elected members of society organise themselves to promote the adherence to law by punishing those who violate the rules set into place to govern that society. Underlying this statement is the fact that the same people of law, thereby also protect the victims and the innocent. The recent media coverage on the Indian diplomat’s daughter, Krittika Biswas portrays a system of law that seems to have failed this young girl. In fact, Krittika Biswas states that she will sue New York City for the unjust she was subject to.
So, has America turned on us? Will they target anyone with brown skin and label them as criminals? How is an immigrant viewed in America? We must remember that India has been civilised since 3000 BC, so it’s hard for us to imagine the plight of a country as young as USA. America as we know it today only started to be inhabited by Europeans in the 1500s. The truly Native Americans are in fact a minority in the present American population. Most Americans are not more than third generation Americans.
So, the fact is everyone is an immigrant in some form or the other. And it is precisely this reason why America has been perceived as the land of opportunity. But terrorism has changed the world and maybe America too. Are the white Americans now wearier of a skin tone that has brought terrorism into their land?
Every experience is different, but here is mine. I am in Indian living in America. In the 10 years I have lived here I have also been victim to crimes. What I can say with utmost confidence is that whenever necessary, the police system was there for me, protected me and brought me home safe. Whether a car crash or a mugging, I never felt unsafe in the presence of a police officer. They immediately responded to my 911 phone call and did everything in their capacity to bring me to safety. As a guest in someone’s home we must abide by their rules if we expect their respect. Many immigrants in America have misused the trust. But many have also become integral and seamless parts of the American society. It is no longer rare to see an Indian face as an actor or even a politician.
So, I don’t believe the white American’s perception has changed towards us post 9/11, but there are those who will place misguided blame on an innocent like what seems to have happened to Miss Biswas in New York. But just as not all brown skinned people are terrorists, neither are all Americans prejudiced.
The writer is a PhD student in the US
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