Honestly, I do have bias’ preprogramed in my head about people, based on life experiences I have encountered. I am aware of this shortcoming on my part and actively work to not let it come into the way I treat others. I see a person dressed a certain way and I automatically assign a judgment to them, which I have in the past believed to be true. Now, I can quickly dismiss this thought and let the individual teach me about him or herself by interaction.
How will you approach unlearning stereotypes and myths you have been taught? As mentioned in the above paragraph I have become aware of my own shortcomings and worked to overcome judging others. I grew up believing everything I was taught and then as I got older I realized I was being taught ideas that conflicted and I did not know what I believed so I adopted the beliefs of those around me. This is a bad habit that has continued throughout my life, until recently when I have been forming my own ideas and beliefs based on what I have experienced and know to be true. I believe that the best way to overcome fear and discrimination is to become educated about the differences in cultures, families, religions, etc. I am aware that people and relationships change and adapt throughout time and that I will continue to as well, and that is how to break down barriers, by