By: Mariska Lubis / Socio-Politic-Economic Observer Sydney Uni Alumni
penanews.net _ Bogor, Jawa Barat. Accusing others is really very easy, but admitting yourself as a racist is certainly not that easy. It is too easy an accusation to be made and pointed out without looking at the background, to be close, and left behind all the impacts and consequences up front. Racism is also used as an excuse to cover up mistakes that have been made, shouted out loud only to get support from those who don’t know what the truth is. Who is actually the racist? Those who are accused or those who keep shouting use the word “racism” for the benefit of certain group of people and politics ?!
Not long ago, a student from a distant area was seriously ill and need help. His condition was dire and must be helped immediately. Help came, on the basis of humanity and obligations as human beings, this student who was sick was taken to the hospital. Unfortunately, when they arrived at the hospital, a group of young people came from the student’s hometown who immediately got in the way. They arrogantly forbade the child to be assisted, even to be held and helped. The reason was, they could help themselves as fellow tribes and regions. In short, the sick student was finally brought back to his hometown, and passed away. Who dare to take the responsibility of what has happened?!
The question that should be able to be answered by heart and clear mind, “Who was racist in that incident ?! Those who tried to help or those who forced them to expel those who wanted to help ?!”.
It is different from the incident where many students from the area were sent to study far away. Of course, it cost a lot and even those who get scholarship, there must be a sense of responsibility to those who provide it. Good intentions to help direct these students to focus on studying, prepare the future, and don’t waste opportunities, could become a mistake. Even to help them from the intimidation of certain parties who incite and threaten if they do not take part in dangerous political activities that lead to a grave mistake.
By the name of democracy and freedom, it is described and used as an excuse as an arbitrary. Well-made rules are broken. It is also surprising that breaking the rules is considered to be right but the consequences for what has been made do not want to be accepted. Heart-to-heart talk was rejected, unwilling to talk to, rude and destructive actions are justified and defended. In fact, the accusations of racism then reappeared. Wondering what is actually do they want.
If they really don’t like the manners, customs, culture of other tribes and regions, for any reasons, why they do force their own will?! There is no respect for those who have no respect. What is the great thing about shouting out just because they feel they have been treated badly but they have done something wrong before? Champ ?! Not!!! If they are really kind and brave, they are not only scream and act harshly. There are many more elegant ways to win and achieve goals, only if they really understand the politics and strategy. It is not only limited to the ability of thuggish-style activists which have also been opposed by themselves so far.
Consider of this story just as a fictional story, but it should inspired everyone to have deep contemplation of self-introspection. There is no need to shout and accuse just to cover up one’s mistakes. Those who are smart of course know that every problem can be solved well if there is really the intention to solve it, not to make the situation worse. If you really care about the future and a better life, you should be able to think.
Racism is not for political toys, except for primordials who don’t care. Money and violence will not make anyone as a winner. Intelligence and humility can make all win. Know yourself, do not ever accuse someone elses as a racist when you are a truly racist anyway!
Bandung, 12 March 2021
Mariska Lubis
