Question

Sometimes people make prejudiced comments in our presence. We are often not in a position to do anything about this because it is difficult to say something right then and there. Divide the class into groups and each group discuss what they could do in one of the following situations:

1. A friend begins to tease a classmate because he is poor.
2. You are watching TV with your family and one of them makes a prejudicial comment about a particular religious community.
3. Children in your class refuse to share their food with a particular person because they think she is dirty.
4. Someone tells you a joke that makes fun of a community because of their accent.
5. Some boys make remarks about girls not being able to play games as well as them.

Discuss in class what the different groups have suggested for the above situations, and also talk about the problems that can come up when raising the issue.

Answer 1

In situations where prejudiced comments are made, it’s important to respond thoughtfully and respectfully. For example,

1. If a friend teases a classmate because he is poor, we can gently remind them that financial status doesn’t define a person’s worth and that kindness matters more than wealth.
2. When watching TV with family and someone makes a prejudiced remark about a religious community, we can try to redirect the conversation respectfully and share the importance of respecting all religions.
3. In class, if children refuse to share food with someone thinking she is dirty, we can include that person ourselves and encourage hygiene awareness without shaming anyone.
4. If someone tells a joke that targets a community's accent, we can explain why such jokes hurt feelings and promote stereotypes.
5. Lastly, when boys say girls can't play sports well, we can point out examples of successful female athletes and promote equality in abilities.