Moral dilemmas plague us all.
Most rational decision makers use a similar decision-making process. First, we fight with ourselves over what’s the right thing to do is. Then we weigh the pros and cons and assess the risks associated with all given choices. Typically, per our human nature, if opting for one alternative means increasing our personal discomfort and uncertainties, we are less inclined to choose it.
Assuming this process is true, it is logical to suggest one reason people hesitate to take definitive action denouncing injustice is because they fear their stance might socially ostracize them.
For example, let’s say you’re buying lunch and you witness someone being subjected to religious discrimination. A group of people are mumbling slurs under their breath, and someone is clearly being victimized. You don’t know the person. You don’t know their story. In fact, you know absolutely nothing about them. However, you do know the moral compass in your head is telling you something isn’t right.
Do you speak up? This decision is a dilemma for many Americans.
Many people think by avoiding involvement altogether, they are not part of the
systemic issue at hand — you are neither denouncing nor commending injustice. Therefore, your silence is insignificant.
You’d be incorrect in thinking so. Silence actively facilitates injustice.
In the words of South African social rights activist, Desmond Tutu, “If you are
neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.”
Thus, it is our duty to speak up for our fellow Americans, neighbors and friends, who lack a voice or whose voice is silenced by society.
I’m just one person. How can I make an impact? What difference will my one voice make?
If we allow ourselves to be consumed with paralyzing doubts, the easiest way to react is to turn a blind eye. The fact of the matter is simple: We are stronger together than we are individually.
Harriet Tubman didn’t emancipate hundreds of slaves alone. She relied on her network of contacts and safe houses through the Underground Railroad to guide slaves to refuge. Without this network of support, it’s unlikely her legacy would be as defining. I’m sure Tubman was afraid, and I’m sure she experienced doubt. What defines her greatness is that, in spite of her dilemmas, she harnessed her voice for humanity’s greater good.
By acknowledging our power in unity, every American has the potential to incite social change and end the silence. All we need is a little more courage, a little more empathy and a big step outside of our comfort zone.
Alaina DiLaura is a 20-year-old international studies and mass communication sophomore from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.