White Vs Brown: A Fight for Understanding

What is the relationship between ignorance and racism?

This is a story about a car ride involving myself, my white brother and my close, brown, Bangladeshi mate. 

We were all casually discussing the idea of career progression and the 'doing what you love versus doing what you must' debate. 

On the one hand, coming out of the glistening white corner, we had my brother representing the idea that you should follow your dreams. If you feel like your job isn't sating your insatiable desire for progression and self-improvement, then leave it and find a job that does. 

On the other hand, from the earthy brown corner, came the idea of communal responsibility and stability. Sometimes you have to be grateful for what you have as there is not an abundance of opportunities. Plus a person should place his family responsibility above that of his own personal desire.

Shock. Horror.

Little did I know that this amateur bout was about to turn into the Pacquiao vs Mayweather of the multicultural, globalized world.

Before the fight continues, let me say a few things. Firstly, this a great example of the 'white eye' that Stuart Hall talks about whereby everything is seen and positioned within the frame of one’s own ideology. The 'white eye' of my brother does not consider the idea that getting a job can be influenced by the colour of your skin or the accent of your english. Secondly, on a more abstract note, you can argue that he is representing a traditionally white/western ideology of greater importance on individualism. 

Heading into round 2, the battle intensifies around the idea of responsibility. A brown fist flashes outwards. It is revealed that this communal responsibility extends beyond his immediate family to include his extended family back in Bangladesh. He often sends them money to help.

Our contender in the pristine white briefs is momentarily shocked before he lashes back with a series of attacks.

"Why can't they help themselves?" 

"Doesn’t that limit your own choices and decisions?"

"Why is it your responsibility?"

"Because there is already extreme poverty, slums, crime and lack of opportunity which makes it difficult."

"Yes it does, but it is something I must do."

"Because this is how I was raised, because this is the way that it is. I don't think you understand the difference between life in NZ and life in Bangladesh." 

His response to these attacks further highlights the cultural divide or perhaps racial ignorance that is a common element of white society. Is this ignorance racist? Is it the fault of the person or the context of the environment? I am not sure this is something that can be answered broadly. 

Is ignorance always a malicious concept? 

If the ignorance is not intentional, is it unconscious racism?

Is this considered to be racism by the person or the context in which he is placed for not educating him?

The day ends and the fighters retire, leaving behind one bloodied car and one weary referee.