As a physician navigating through a comfortable life, I recognize that my family exists within a protective bubble. We are white, educated, and enjoy middle-class privileges. Other than a few minor challenges—like my struggle with anxiety and my partner’s learning difficulties—our lives have been relatively uncomplicated. My children are growing up in a neighborhood that has minimal racial or economic diversity. They are fortunate to have good health and countless opportunities, much like I did. However, this reality raises concerns about their ability to empathize with those who face significant struggles.
Living in a bubble can create a false sense of security and even a detachment from the harsh realities that many individuals endure. It is all too easy to dismiss the injustices we hear about through news outlets or social media, convincing ourselves that they are exaggerated or distant problems. I remember a moment in my 20s that challenged my perspective. A close friend of Asian descent opened my eyes to the painful history of Japanese American internment during World War II. At that time, I was preoccupied with trivial matters, completely unaware of the significance of his story.
When he shared that his apartment had once housed internment camp detainees, I was taken aback. How could I have overlooked such a critical part of American history? Realizing that I had subconsciously chosen to ignore it was a wake-up call. I began to understand that history is often told through subjective lenses, and it is our responsibility to seek out the full picture.
Since that pivotal conversation, I have made a conscious effort to dig deeper into the narratives that shape our society. I encourage my children, now aged 9 and 7, to engage in discussions about difficult topics, including the internment camps. While I ensure that the details are age-appropriate, I believe it’s vital for them to grasp the complexities of our nation’s past.
America, while a great country, is not without its flaws. I want my children to grow up with a balanced view—loving their country while recognizing its mistakes. They must learn to be aware of the world around them and to ask meaningful questions. We plan to visit the Amache internment camp, located a few hours from our home. It may not be the most cheerful family outing, but it will undoubtedly be a significant experience. My history-loving son will be intrigued, while my empathetic daughter may find it overwhelming. Regardless of their reactions, this visit will help them confront the realities of injustice.
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In summary, it’s crucial to educate our children about the realities of injustice to foster empathy and awareness in their lives. By exposing them to uncomfortable truths, we can help them become informed citizens who respect their heritage while critically engaging with history.