I first heard the term “ I don’t see color” when I was in middle school and automatically it made me think. I thought about my life so far and if I see color. My first thoughts were that I do see color and I enjoy seeing color. I didn’t find anything wrong with seeing race and appreciating the differences in other people in comparison to myself.

Simply disregarding the existence of color does not help the issue of racism in our country; in fact it hurts our country. Acknowledging other peoples color and cultural backgrounds creates a conversation about race. Conversations spark understanding, which is something that we have to create during this tumultuous time. Seeing other people’s colors helps to know people for who they are because it represents their traditions and background.

We should see color and we should celebrate it. We should embrace the various colors, tones, and shades that make up our country. By disregarding someone’s race, we are also washing away their history, struggles, and experiences, which have contributed to the person they are today, and to our country today.

Next time you meet someone new, don’t be colorblind. Spark a conversation about their ethnicity, ask about their cultural backgrounds, and soak up a culture different than your own. Do not be afraid of someone who doesn’t look or act like you. Keep an open mind and an open heart to the beautiful shades that make up our country. By doing this you are not only becoming a better person, but making our society a better place.