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First, I did not watch this video.

But, here is my take on the issue of racism. I think we must begin at the beginning. We must admit that racism is a problem OR prove it does not exist. Good luck if you try the second route. Where does racism exist? I believe in each and every individual. To what extent? In some nearly none. In others it can be the main part of their lives.

I see two distinct sides to racism. One Someone judges others primarily by the color of their skin. Two someone takes almost everything said (especially if it is unpleasant) as said because of racism. Both of these are paths to destruction and will never improve the problem.

So, I suggest one look hard at oneself and identify the extent of the problem within oneself. Next try to determine why they feel as they do.

Then determine actions that will allow you to correct the problem withing yourself.

Then and only then can one begin to see and deal with the problem(s) of racism in others and in society.

I just watched the video. I have told SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" the story about my grandson before- Elyjah was asked if he considered himself white or black. Elyjah's response was "I'm Italian, Grandma doesn't see color in her house" and I don't. I was raised in the backwoods of Indiana down the street from the Grand Dragon of the KKK. The first black person I ever came in face to face contact with was my recruiter. I think racism is nothing more than blind ignorance, and I have no patience for either one. We all bleed red- period. With all that said, in order to "kill it" we have to recognize it, deal with it, put a plan in place to do away with it. Burying it or pretending it doesn't exist won't solve anything- face it head on- but call it what it is, don't use it as a catch all for everything you personally don't agree with. JS

Common interaction and experience are a good start. When our pre-conceived notions bump up against reality and the two don't jibe often enough, only the biggest of fools will hold onto the pre-conceived notions. I think two little kids of different race playing together on a playground are doing more to combat racism than a thousand adults talking about what a shame it is that people use race and ethnicity as a determining factor for civility, cooperation, and friendship.