On the
Catwalk
The memory I
have of experiencing bias is during my early college years. All of the students
were to be placed within an internship for the college program I had enrolled
in at the time which was fashion design. I noticed that my white colleagues got
better job placements than I did. These placements were to give each student
work experience and could lead into employment after graduation.
This job
bias diminished equity by way of limiting my chance for gainful employment
within the industry. The feelings that came into my mind were feelings of inadequacy;
I began to question my skills and learning. I did not doubt myself as I had the
courage and fortitude to move along and persevere.
The job
placements were assigned by the department internship coordinator. I had been
previously told that the industry was not favorable to blacks at that time. The
change would have had to take place with the department heads toward the
students that did not fit the “look” of the industry. I understand now from
other sources that the department of this university is all about diversity and
is vigorously seeking out individuals to show diversity within the department.
I think with this shift in thinking by the design department of this university,
there is now a greater opportunity for equity and fair play among the students
that are currently in attendance.
Shelia, You are very beautiful in your picture. It is sad that we have to feel something is wrong in us when we are discriminated against. I am glad you had the courage to go on.
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