THE VIEWS OF A YOUNG BLACK WOMAN IN TORONTO
Freeafrica (March 25, 2005)
Article by: Sherine A Beckford

Toronto, Canada -- Throughout history the less dominant gender, the female have had countless challenges. There has always been the need to prove and acquire equality to the male gender. One must agree women have come a far way. However being a colored young woman in a competitive society such as Toronto; the competition has taken a new direction. The odds are far greater as the components stems from not only males but also other females from other ethnic background.

Caucasians and Asian women already have been fed the left-overs, therefore the plate is empty. Lectures and Intellects alike will argue the point that racism has never been an issue in Toronto Canada. ? But who feels it knows?

The problem of colored women being handed the blade most times must be addressed. And where should we start? One may ask. In the homes of colored families. Parents and Guardians must first be role models for their children especially for their young teenage daughters. School drop-outs amongst colored teenage girls are far greater than any other race. Broken families are also a major contribution to this problem. Peer pressure plays a major role also. If there is no strong parental guidance young girls will succumb to the negative influence of their peers and the cycle repeats itself.

Different views and opinions were taken from colored women from all walks of life; which includes wealthy, middle-class and poor women. This was to establish whether or not these social groups faced any similar challenges.

Wealthy colored women argued that they are most times respected because of their prestige life style which includes luxurious houses and cars. But on the other hand are scrutinized for having passed society’s expectations. Middle class and poor women shared somewhat of a similar opinion, they have not been given the opportunity to prove themselves, and they have been pre-judged in schools and the workplace.

Colored women are hopeful that the described challenges will dissolve with time and there will be a renaissance of dreams and aspirations.