Athletes Who Terrified the Hegemony

Becoming the first, the best, and/or socially conscience "racially classified black person" requires a willingness to endure the wrath of the Hegemony.

Jesse Owens (Track and Field), Muhammad Ali (Boxing), "Pelé" Edson Arantes do Nascimento (Futbol, Football, Soccer), Althea Gibson (Tennis), Serena Williams (Tennis), Willy T. Ribbs (Nascar/IndyCar), Lewis Hamilton (Formula 1), Jackie Robinson (Baseball), Hank Aaron (Baseball), Simone Biles (Gymnastics), Earl Lloyd (Basketball), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Basketball), Lebron James (Basketball), Jim Brown (Football), Kenny Washington (Football), etc....[The list can literally can go on for hours], have all endured the Hegemonic Wrath for challenging the paradigms ingrained in the DNA of the self-anointed superior class.

What is Hegemonic Wrath?

1. Racial slurs and derogatory language.

2. Physical assaults or death threats.

3. Discriminatory treatment by fans or spectators.

4. Institutional racism within government, business, and sports organizations.

5. Racial profiling and unfair treatment by law enforcement.

6. Racially motivated media coverage, including biased portrayals or negative narratives.

7. Lack of representation and diversity in leadership positions within sports organizations.

8. Prejudiced officiating or biased referee decisions.

9. Exclusion and isolation within team dynamics.

10. Racial segregation or exclusion from certain events or venues.

11. Threats against the individual and their family members.

12. Economic backlash or loss of employment due to their activism or speaking out against racial injustice.

13. Brainwashed to only accept Hegemony approved "black or other minority" heroes.

So what is really going on here?

1. Cognitive Dissonance: Prejudiced Caucasian Americans and Europeans who uphold stereotypes or biases may experience cognitive dissonance when witnessing a racially classified black person achieve sports records. Cognitive dissonance refers to the discomfort felt when there is a discrepancy between one's beliefs or biases and actual observations. This can lead to feelings of confusion, defensiveness, or a need to reconcile conflicting information.

2. Threat to Identity: Witnessing a racially classified black person excel in sports traditionally dominated by Caucasian Americans and Europeans may pose a challenge to the identity and self-esteem of prejudiced white individuals. It may challenge their beliefs about superiority, control, or privilege, leading to feelings of insecurity or a sense of loss.

3. Stereotype Confirmation or Disconfirmation: In some cases, witnessing a racially classified black person achieve sports records may challenge or disconfirm existing stereotypes or biases. This can create internal conflict, as individuals may need to reassess their preconceived notions and beliefs.

4. Emotional Responses: The emotional responses of prejudiced Caucasian Americans and Europeans witnessing a racially classified black person achieve sports records can vary widely. Some individuals may react with anger, resentment, or frustration as their beliefs or sense of cultural identity may be threatened. Others may experience awe, admiration, or appreciation for the athletic achievements, leading to a shift in attitudes and perceptions.

5. Impact on Prejudices: Witnessing the success of a racially classified black person in sports can challenge and potentially break down prejudices and stereotypes held by some Caucasian Americans and Europeans. Exposure to diverse excellence and achievements may lead to increased empathy, cultural understanding, and a reevaluation of previously held biases.

6. Social Context and Individual Differences: The psychological impact described above can be influenced by various factors such as the individual's prior experiences, social environment, upbringing, and level of exposure to diversity. It's important to acknowledge that not all prejudiced Caucasian Americans and Europeans will experience the same psychological response or have their prejudices altered by witnessing sports achievements.

Remedies?

The only peaceful solution is to permanently end systemic racism and the prejudice practices of the sitting Hegemony. The unincentivized majority must overcome their cognitive dissonance by acknowledging the inequities inherit within their societies and firmly commit to the following:

1. Promote and protect human rights: Enshrine human rights principles in laws and policies, and establish mechanisms to ensure their enforcement. This includes protecting minority rights, ensuring equal opportunities, and combating discrimination in all its forms.

2. Encourage inclusive governance: Foster diverse and inclusive political participation and decision-making processes. This involves creating opportunities for minority voices to be heard and actively involved in shaping policies and initiatives that affect them.

3. Increase awareness and education: Promote awareness about the harmful impact of discrimination and violence on minority communities. Education plays a crucial role in challenging biases, fostering empathy, and building a more inclusive society.

4. Strengthen legal frameworks and accountability: Enhance legal mechanisms to address and prosecute hate crimes, discrimination, and human rights abuses. Ensure that perpetrators of violence or discrimination are held accountable for their actions.

5. Foster intercultural dialogue and understanding: Promote dialogue and understanding among diverse communities to bridge divides and combat prejudices. Encourage initiatives that celebrate diversity, cultural exchange, and solidarity among different groups.

We are all teachers. So what lessons will we teach each other today?