In environments where minority groups are underrepresented and oppressed, people often assimilate to the societal and cultural norms of the majority. In the United States, universities and colleges are major hubs for cultural assimilation, as Black students have an experience that is unique to that of their white counterparts.
For those who were surrounded by a consistent Black community in their homes, high schools, extracurricular activities, etc. before their collegiate career began, many Black students are met with a culture shock and feel obligated to conform to the social norms of their new environment.
Conversations about race are becoming more prevalent in the media as the Black Lives Matter movement resurges and encourages people of the African diaspora to embrace the diversity within the Black community. This movement has made non-Black Americans more aware of an ongoing discussion within the Black community regarding the use of the terms “Black” versus “African American.”
While Black people in America and other parts of the world share the common experiences of racial discrimination and systematic oppression, it is unanimously understood that the Black experience is not monolithic. For this reason, among others, people prefer to claim their Blackness with terms that reflect their personal identities, which are shaped by their life experiences, ancestry and ethnicity.
Environmental policies fail to prioritize the well-being of people of color who continue to fall victim to the effects of environmental racism.
Environmental racism is “racial discrimination in defining environmental policies, discriminatory enforcement of regulations and laws … and the exclusion of people of color from environmental leadership positions.” This definition was developed by civil rights leader Benjamin Chavin in 1982.
While pollution and other environmental issues affect people of all races, low-income communities where people of color make the majority are more heavily affected.
In an interview with The Statesman, associate professor of English and Sustainability Heidi Hutner said, “Racism permeates every aspect of society. Everything we breathe, and eat, and are exposed to currently, most of it is extremely detrimental and we have to consider that it is greatly harmful to our poorest, most voiceless communities.”
Brooklyn drill artist Quelly Woo is releasing his first EP, titled “Tactical Pressure,” on April 2. The highly anticipated EP follows the release of his singles “Hot Winter,” “Pain into Passion,” and “Bacc Out,” which The Fader has dubbed as “a funereal smackdown anthem.”
Native to Canarsie, Brooklyn, the talented Quelly Woo is also known as “Mr. TP.” The artist said that in his neighborhood, the term “TP” is recognized as a reminder to “think positive.” Quelly’s nickname reflects his calm energy that radiates in his first single, “TP.”
Supported by artists like Sheff G, Lil Tecca, Fivio Foreign and Rowdy Rebel, it is obvious that Quelly Woo is a huge talent with a promising future. With the excitement surrounding the upcoming release of Quelly’s EP with Equity Distribution, it is safe to agree with RapCaviar in saying, “Woo York is in good hands.”