Race in Lawton, Oklahoma the Term Paper

I also become more aware of the beauty that I have within myself. The story is further inspiring to me, because I identify with Ms. Chavez as a result of her Mexican origin. Obviously she has come to America in pursuit of a dream. She has fulfilled her American dream many times over. I can only hope to do the same with my life.

Another encouraging and gratifying factor in this story is the validation of my own views regarding Lawton. It is a city of truly equal opportunities for whomever chooses to take them. It seems like literally anyone can achieve anything. Furthermore, I find it very encouraging that both the media and government institutions support and openly report the success of efforts such as those by Ms. Chavez. As a White-Mexican female, this makes me aware that, while all cultures are beautiful and should be promoted in their own way, none is more important than any other. This is evident in the fact that children from all cultures are allowed in Ms. Chavez's class.

I am proud of the full extent of my heritage, and I love learning more about all my friends' cultures as well. With institutions such as the Oklahoma Arts Council, and persons such as Isidra Chavez, I don't believe there is a better place in the United States, or even in the world, to do this than in Lawton. I therefore feel privileged for a number of reasons. It is my privilege to live in a city that is truly representative of American diversity and tolerance in an era where people seem to be losing these values. It is a privilege to be a combination of White and Mexican, and female. This gives me the power of understanding, tolerance and a willingness to learn. These qualities themselves places me in a position to do great things not only for myself and my community, but even for my country as a whole.

Sources

City of Lawton, Oklahoma. (2007). "History." http://www.cityof.lawton.ok.us/history.htm

City Policy." http://www.cityof.lawton.ok.us/CityCode/Lawton_City_Code/Chapter_13/1/101.html

City Profile" http://www.cityof.lawton.ok.us/About_Lawton.htm

Lee, Ann Dee. (2006, Nov. 1). "News Release: Isidra Chavez to receive Governor's Arts Award." Oklahoma Arts Council News. http://www.ok.gov/~arts/news/2006/1101GAAChavez.html