The concept of racial and gender separation is a difficult idea to consider. I have honestly never paid much
attention to the representation of race or gender in my neighborhood,
especially in this new university setting. Not because I don't care, but because it doesn't often occur to me to define people this way. For me, this solidifies that I live
in a well-integrated community.
Diversity is a more prevalent topic on a college campus, where it is
often represented and respected. In terms of demographics, I feel that this is
represented in the campus neighborhood as well. However, as I was walking down
Sierra Street, it occurred to me that there is a separation of gender as far as
fraternities and sororities are concerned. This was interesting to me, as it
suddenly put this question in a new perspective. If we do tend to separate
based on race or gender, which is often true, why do we do so? Do we feel safer
when surrounded by people who are fundamentally like us?
I think the answer
is yes. This is how culture, tradition, and habitat develop—not only globally,
but within local settings as well, such as a college community. We are
automatically attracted to those we share a bond with, whether this is
expressed through our interests, demographics, gender, level of intelligence,
or common experiences. We integrate ourselves in these communities, perhaps
without even realizing it. Take the Nevada Living Learning Community, for
example. All of us who chose this residence hall as living quarters chose to simultaneously
integrate ourselves in a community with people who think like we do. In light
of these claims, the effects on mobility are perhaps implied. One will travel
and thrive in an area where they feel accepted and comfortable; they will
inherently choose their surroundings based on these criteria.
This idea caused me
to reconsider how I choose to acclimate to my region—how I form my niche, if
you will. When I thought about it, I began to understand that I am definitely a
“niche” person. I love to be within a community where I can connect to others
in multiple, complex levels. This has an interesting connection to the idea of
mobility, and is perhaps a common thread throughout humanity.
It's our home! :)
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