The Trayvon Martin case has become another painful reality check for many people. It has shown that racism still very much exists. Although outright and blatant acts of racial discrimination and violence are far less prevalent, racism is still a very big part of American history. This can also be seen with comments regarding the election of President Obama and the brutal murder of Iraqi-American mother of 5 that was accused of begin a “terrorist.” The question that many minority parents are wondering is, “How can I keep my child safe without making them live in fear.”

The answer is not easy. Unfortunately, minority parents are going to have make their children painfully aware that racism is real and that they have to make sure to stay aware of their surrounding and situations that may not seem right. It is not a matter of disrespecting and not trusting the police or people in general. It’s about making sure to take extra measures in order to stay safe. For example, telling a teenager to pull over in a crowded, well-lit area if they are stopped by the police or walking away from a station that could escalate into violence.

It is unfortunate that these are still the realities of this nation, but teaching kids how to be aware and stay safe may just save their lives.

Photo: Newsone.com