My family is an open-minded one; I was raised to have respect for people of all backgrounds. Growing up in this country, I realize that those like myself tend to (unless otherwise instilled in them by environmental factors such as friends and family) be accustomed to a multitude of different types of people. As a second-generation immigrant and having spent a couple of years overseas, I understand to what degree acceptance and tolerance are issues in the minds and attitudes of people. Initially, as a little kid, I was exposed to the attitudes of those around me. These attitudes involved racial stereotyping and ignorant generalizations. As I grew up, my education and independent thinking led me to draw my own conclusions on how to peacefully
