The following are ten of the most frequent complaints and reasons for the perpetuation of
prejudice and racial tension. These characteristics have been noted by soldiers form a variety of socio-
cultural backgrounds:
1. Limited recognition and awareness of minorities
2. Unfair administration of rewards and punishment, promotions, and duties
3. Minority group soldiers are likely to be punished (or appear to be) more severely than
whites for similar offenses
4. Leaders are not concerned with the welfare of minority soldiers and do not listen to or
investigate their complaints or look earnestly into their concerns.
5. Insensitive leadership accentuated by a sometimes subtle atmosphere of prejudice and
discrimination
6. The use of "the accusation of discrimination" by members of minority groups as a
crutch
7. Minority group efforts to achieve identity in organizations, music, and symbolism are
misunderstood
8. Lack of understanding; assumptions and not caring enough to get the facts straight
9. Social ostracism--causes resentment and tension from those being ostracized.
(Because a person didn't participate in a social or group affair once or twice doesn't mean
you should stop asking them forever)
10. Racial polarization--when taken to the extreme, causes others to feel tension toward
the group polarized.
Reflect on each of the preceding complaints and reasons for the perpetuation of prejudice and
racial. Have you personally experienced any one of the characteristics? If so, how did you respond?
To complete this section of Lesson 3, review thoroughly now the race relations glossary found in
the appendix of this subcourse. You must study this glossary in order to prepare for the Post Test at the
end of the subcourse.
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