Editorial

By Liletta Harlem

Many of us read this headline on Saturday, March 25th about Jonathan Majors, a star in recently released “Creed III” and “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania,”

At the time of this article, we are yet to know what will come from the allegations. However, this is not a discussion about the incident itself.

What was your personal reaction when you read the headlines?

Across the media, discussion about race and domestic violence was rampant. Some blamed the alleged victim for trying to destroy a Black man. Others came forward saying he had a history of violence against women. Despite waiting to hear the full story, many felt this situation was an attempt to unfairly discredit another Black actor.

How you felt about this situation can be a window into your own biases. They define bias as prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another, usually in a way considered being unfair. Whatever comes from the alleged violence around Jonathan Majors’ arrest, he has the resources available to most likely be okay. But what about others in our society? In the community? Are we quick to form conclusions, for or against a person based on the color of their skin, their gender, or their achievements and success? What is our internal reaction when a woman says she’s been abused? When a Black man says he is the victim of injustice, do we believe him? For the less fortunate ones, bias has led to wrongful imprisonment, denial of employment, and even violence against individuals.

Our biases come from a variety of factors, many of which are not in our control. However, we can be self aware and choose to challenge our biases. Before forming immediate conclusions on any situation, wait, see all facts presented and then form an opinion.