Environmental Justice

The lectures presented to our class about environmental justice on Wednesday were very inspiring. There were so many things that I didn't know about our environment. Racism is not just a social problem, but can also be environmental. We have all been a victim of environmental degradation. However, not all of us have to deal with it. For example, 26 million Latinos live in bad communities. These communities are completely polluted with toxic waste facilities. For example 1/4 African-Americans live in a toxic waste facility. We wonder why this happens. It is because as humans we are greedy. We try to attain power so much that we have no problem suppressing our neighbors. That is why Haiti is still in deep poverty. The world has promised them 8.75 billion dollars yet they have only received 686million. But worse, they have received zero dollars from the United States. We can fix this. EJ Principles are guidelines the community developed for environmental issues of people of color. Other things can be done and we must start now.

Self-Assessment

I usually right about current events. It usually has to deal with something I find of relevance. The theme tends to be about African-Americans or something that the African-American community finds important. I have noticed that the blog has made me more attentive to news now. I like to keep up with current events so I have something to write about. I have actually installed a New York Times application on my phone so I can keep an update on the news while I am on the go. I realized that I love to throw my opinion out there alot. I thought I was just stating the facts but I am very much bias to certain information. I would revisit the Colin Powell post, because I really like what he said about the President. I value that my blog keeps me informed about current events. I am no longer ignorant to what is going on in the world.
I still do not like writing essays. Nothing has changed since I joined this class. I am a math major, so English is not something I am very fond of. My strengths are being persuasive. I tend to give my opinion very well. My weakness is trying to give someone else's opinion. I personally never cared if someone backed my viewpoint. That is why I dont like research essays. I must admit a lot of my times is not used for English. The majority of my time is used for other classes because they are more important to me. I do not think I have learned that much. I already know what to do, I just do not like doing it. The class does not draw me in to keep me attentive. I am more comfortable with using technology. I never had a blog until the class and I enjoy it. I try to keep a broad perspective, but I tend to write for "my people." I have not lived any other ethnicity, so I feel like I can speak for them.

Convocation Speech

With the 143rd official opening of the academic school year, Howard University was blessed to be graced with the presence of nationally known brain surgeon, Dr. Benjamin Carson. It was stated by Howard University that "Cramton Auditorium exceeded its capacity as more than 1500 students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends gathered to hear his message of hope and inspiration." Dr. Carson's main point in his speech was to never allow road blocks on your street of success. Dr. Carson first started off talking about how he struggled in school. It was by his mother's prayer and the grace of God that he is where he is today. One part of the speech that stuck with me was when Dr. Carson talked about his medical school advisor, and how he tried to get thought it was best for Dr. Carson to drop out and use his intellect in some other field of study. Dr. Carson did not let this man get in the way of his dream, and he strived to become what he is today. Through his faith in God, Dr. Carson realized that he could accomplish anything. It is very inspirational to see a Godly man succeed. However, he doesnt define success as the money, the big house, the many cars, and everyone wanting you. Dr. Carson defined success as "taking the talent that God gave you to elevate other people." Dr. Carson exemplifies this as he continues to be a key scholar in the African American community.