Dumb Blondes, Smart Asians, and Fat Americans

I completely agree with lewsquared when he says that the world has changed. Some people say that all blondes are dumb, all asians are intelligent, and all Americans are fat. Well, those are stereotypes. A stereotype is a belief that may be affiliated about specific types of individuals or certain ways of doing things, but that belief may or may not accurately reflect reality. I feel that stereotyping is not a good mindset. I believe that the stereotypical person would always think of a blonde as dumb, before they had even met them. Don't judge people for what you hear until you have really met them because you can't just assume that someone is dumb or smart, fat or skinny, or anything else. Even if they were any of those things, only the personality really matters. This is similar to blacks and whites. Nothings different between the two, but about 45 years ago, the blacks were treated much worse than the whites, just because they were said to be "different." There is no reason for the stereotypes on people that have a different color, culture, looks, religion, nationality, etc. Stereotypes hurt, so don't judge people just by what you hear.

I 100% agree with this topic of stopping stereo types. I think that stereo types are really mean and hurtful. Like you said people have stereo types such as, dumb blondes, smart asians, fat americans, and even into religion like jews are greedy and selfish. I don't understand why it's okay to act towards these people just by what they are or their religion. It's completely disrespectful and rude to judge people based on such things. Just because you are blonde, or even American does not mean you are dumb or fat. People are put into groups based on what they look like, or even religion and thats not okay. It seems as if our society has moved on to no separation or segregation, but has it really. People still have stereo types put on them based on what their religion is or what they look like. No one should be teased over this, and this needs to come to an end. Everyone should be accepted for what they are and not what people judge them by.

I agree with you about the fact that there is still stereotypes in America. To this day I still hear jokes about that blonds are dumb, mexicans are poor, jews are greedy, and Asians are smart.

I have an app on my phone that has jokes on it and so many of them are about that blonds are so stupid. My friend told me a joke a month ago. It was a racist joke about how poor Mexicans are and how they will do anything for money. That isn't true one of the richest men in the world lives in Mexico and is Mexican.

Another thing I hear today the term "That's so gay" people say that not even when it involves being gay when something doesn't work they say it like if their printer doesn't work they'll say something like the printer is being gay. It doesn't even make sense. 

A third thing I hear in society today is that Asians are smart. So many people think that since he/she is Asian he/she must be really smart. Yes there are smart Asians but there are smart Americans, Blacks, Muslims, ect. A few days ago I was watching a youtube video and in the video it mentioned that all Asians in middle school study really hard and get good grades. Also in the video the Asian kids dad got really mad at him for getting a C. Yes some people don't think that a C is a good grade but some Asian people are fine with getting an average grade of a C.  

A fourth thing I see in American culture today is that people think that all Muslims are terrorists. In 7th grade we watched this video called 30 days being a Muslim. This was about a man who became a Muslim for 30 days. In the video he first had to fly to Michigan but when he got to the airport they searched him down for weapons, bombs, ect. After they did that he told the camera man that they never did that before to him when he wasn't a Muslim.

Overall I don't think that racism is completely solved in America because there is still stereotypes. Even though there is no longer segregation there is still work to be done.  

I agree with you, but America really has changed by a great amount since the past. In a good way. At least America made some progress. There is no more seperation between black people and white people anymore. Children can be friends with other children who are different from them. I believe that people will always have a certain image of a certain group of people in their mind. For example if you go to a school with many smart asian people it's obvious you would assume all asian poeple are smart. I also think that these type of stereotypes could be hurtful to people. For example if someone assumes all jewish people are selfish and greedy that would be vey hurtful to a jewish person. There are many Jewish people who are selfish, but there are also many Christians that are selfish as well. Some Jews are selfish and some are kind. People need to understand that just because a person is a certain religon or nationality doesn't mean that the people have the same personalities and opinions. Every person is different and we should all learn to judge a person once you meet them and not assume something about them. I agree with you that the world will be a better place if we all learn to do judge a person by their personality. It's like judging a book by its cover, we all do it because it's natural to us, but think about how many more books we would enjoy of we would have read the summry of the book before juding it.

-Daniela :)

I agree stereotypes  are huge all around the world. Things were a lot worse many years ago but it still goes on today. But if people make stereotypes it is not always there fault. Its still not right, but sometimes it's just what people are custom too. Kids learn everything from there parents and theese beliefs are passed down through generations. When people make stereotypes it's what they've grown up knowing. There are many stereotypes, all around the world. Theese streotypical traits that people come up with are false it's not right to judge people by race or religon. Theese traits can't  describe a whole culture. I mean i'm sure theres some people that fall under a stereotype in there culture it dosn't mean it's true for everyone. In conclusion people just make assuptions on  things they've seen and heard, and it's just completely wrong to just assume that. Theese stereotypes can be hurtful and they must stop

     I agree with this totally. I play hockey, and in the locker room you hear bad jokes like racis jokes, asian jokes, and mexican jokes, and no body really thinks about what there actually saying, event though they are being racist. Most people would feel bad if they were black or blond and would be hurt if someone said jokes that made them sound bad. I also agree that the only way to end racism and things like that is to stop all the jokes, and prejidous. if more young people are being exposed to all these stereotypes then when they grow up they will in favor of racism, and like other people are not as good good as them. I think almoast everybody has heard bad things about another race but that doesn't make it right for everybody to start joking around about what one person did. Like just because there is one lazy mexican or something doesn't mean that they are all that way. Stopping all these stereotypes would make a better world.

I totally agree. Many things have changed during 1900s, but judgement, equality, and stereotypes in society haven't. Stereotypes in society still linger because many people have different views and presprectives on people of different religions or race. Weather they are curel or not os the question... and they are. Many reject the fact that the old views and judgements on society hurt others. It's teasing and it's not fair. Many people have a tendency to think all Americans are fat, and all Muslims are terroists but they aren't. People need to form their own opionions on society and the people that live in it.  ~

Stereotypes are a big part of American society. Stereotypes are wrong, but that doesnt stop people from using them. Some people think of other people as different just because of the color of their skin or the way they speak. It is not right to judge these people just because of what they look like on the outside. Some people are racist and they dont even know it. This was just the way they were brought up. You always hear people talking about how some group of people are different. Many people think that all muslims are terrorists because of the 9/11 attacks. What they dont understand is that they were a group of muslim extremists. Most Muslims are not like this. You can offend a person if you tell them hurtful things. A lot of people also say Americans are fat. I am an American and i dont think that i am fat. Maybe some Americans are fat, but the majority of them are not. Also Some people get very offended by racist jokes even if you are joking. Stereotypes can be very hurtful and should never be used

I think many people stereotype. Even I do. But, I think it should stop because some of them are not nice.For example, Dumb blondes and smart asians. For some people they might like being called a smart asian. For a blonde who maybe has trouble in school and people are making fun of her, it might be hard. Or for a person who is obese and has trouble losing weight, it hurts. Although, these words might hurt some of them are not true. People are not always right when they make comments about other people or thing that they do not know.If you are a blonde, you could be the smartest person in the world, it doesnt matter what color your hair is. People do not realize that words do hurt and some of them are just wrong. I do agree with you because people should try not to stereotype especially if they do not know the person or group.

I think many people stereotype. Even I do. But, I think it should stop because some of them are not nice.For example, Dumb blondes and smart asians. For some people they might like being called a smart asian. For a blonde who maybe has trouble in school and people are making fun of her, it might be hard. Or for a person who is obese and has trouble losing weight, it hurts. Although, these words might hurt some of them are not true. People are not always right when they make comments about other people or thing that they do not know.If you are a blonde, you could be the smartest person in the world, it doesnt matter what color your hair is. People do not realize that words do hurt and some of them are just wrong. I do agree with you because people should try not to stereotype especially if they do not know the person or group.

I agree that the world has changed a lot since the 1900's. Anyone can be who thye want to be, but its a matter of how they are going to be judged. The world obviously isn't free of old judgements because people get judged everyday. There personality, the way they dress, the way they look, what color skin you have etc. No matter what someone or something will always judge you. Its not fair but its basically a way of life. Some of the stereotypes are funny, but others are really hurtful and rude. For example, your race or color of your skin. Stereotypes are wrong and mean. I agree that we should make a change within ourselves. I also agree that if our society doesn't detest them, our society will remain greatly imperfect. Having everyone love each others differences will make our world a little more beautiful. I totally agree.

I agree 100% with lewsquared. Escpecially when he says that most of people think that all blondes are dumb, asians are the smartest people, and that most of the americans are fat. Also I agree with stereotypes getting off hand, and mean. I have heard many people say that muslims are terrorists. When people see a muslim they automatically back away and sometimes even stare or whisper to one another. I really do not understand why they assume that they are terrorists I mean like is it the way they dress? The lanuguage they speak? Everybody dresses differently, muslims dress the way they do because it is part of their culture and religion. You can't blame someone or judge them by who they are and where they come from. Imagine if you go into a shopping store and people all around you watching you and staring and whispering and laughing. Stereotypes these days have become more than just jokes but they have become racist and sexist. I do not think that stereotypes should go that far. Its fine making a small simple joke but when it includes racism and sexsism then it gets serious and mean. My point is that some stereotypes should stop before it becomes a even bigger problem.

I definately agree with you that the world really has changed. People were treated a lot worse if they would different back then than they are now. But still our world isn't perfect. Many people are still treated unequal then others. Stereotypes are not something to joke about. They have been going around for a long time and many of them are offensive. To be countined...

I am there with you. There are people who don't even know that what they are saying is as bad as they think it is. There are also people who are hipicrates. These people will say a racial slur or a sexist comment and deny that they have said it. This could either be on 

to be continued...

        People can never be perfect no matter how much they try. Sterotypes can hurt people I agree, it counts as harassing and bullying. You are right those jokes hurt people, some people take it really bad. Our country is just racist, not one of us hasn't cracked a racsist joke. Lets face it, we can dream about it but we can't change who we are. Most Americans are racist and we always will be. If you are white, black, blond, asian we are the same, but we are also very different. We can never blend no matter how hard we try. Its really hard to change our selfs, its next to impossable.

I agree with you that the concept of stereotypes is one that comes up often. We don't even realize that we are such stereohypocritical people. We judge everyday and a lot of times we may do it jokingly. I always hear kids joking about how every Asian is smart and how "Oh, he's an Asian, he's smart". Some people may take then offensive if they are Asian and maybe aren't the brightest of the bunch. My friends and I also joke about how we are always "blonde" because we are acting stupid. Another stereotype that comes up a lot is that all Muslims are terroists. I know many Muslims and know that they aren't terriosts, but I think everyone already makes the assumption that they are going to harm you.

Stereotypes are probably the easiest joke you can pull, but can be one of the most hurtful. There are some people who pull one of those jokes in front of someone who might find that offensive and they don't even realize it. Personally, I think these things are very hurtful from one time to another. The definition is a belief that may be adopted about specific types of individuals or certain ways of doing things, but that belief may or may not accurately reflect reality. This is saying that no stereotype reflects the person in a positive way, or they way it should. We just automatically assume things. For example, let's take Hilary Clinton, one of the smartest people out there. She is a blonde and she is so intelligent! She went to an Ivy legue school!

Secondly, most American's aren't fat. People from other countries automatically have a picture in their head that we are fat because that is what they hear. Most American's are not fat and won't be, but because that's what people hear and assume we can't change much about that. Agreeing with lewsquared, our society won't be perfect and may not every get to the point of perfect. If we start by removing some of these imprfections that we don't even realize we say or do, we might as well not start anywhere. All it takes is some thinking before you say a word. By saying one tiny little thing, you can really hurt someone.

I can concur to almost all of this espesially about the asians and dumb blonds. But to the fat americans i have some doubts. I agree that some american are fat but not all of them. Most americans are avereged sized and healthy. However i have seen some americans that are over whieght but not on an everyday basis. Now when it come to smart asians i agree 100%. Most of my friends that are asian are insainly smart. Almost every time there is a test in one of my classes they always get A's. So anyway to the blonds i think most are not dumb but there are blonds on TV and they really dumb but not everyone is the most inteligant.

This article, in my opinion, was very true in society today. Many people are stereotypes with out even noticing. However, I disagree when when the author says that we can get rid of stereotypes. Especially when the people kids look up to (parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents) are some of the biggest stereotypes. Stereotypes are based on hate and inequality. Those are two things that will never go away no matter how hard we try. 

This article, in my opinion, was very true in society today. Many people are stereotypes with out even noticing. However, I disagree when when the author says that we can get rid of stereotypes. Especially when the people kids look up to (parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents) are some of the biggest stereotypes. Stereotypes are based on hate and inequality. Those are two things that will never go away no matter how hard we try. 

I agree with lewsquared when he says stereotypical jokes can be funny and harmful. Sometimes when used in the right context and stereotypical can be very funny, but when used in the wrong time it can be harmful to people and not funny at all. Lewsqared also used very good examples to prove to people how they cna be funny or mean. It also depends on the people you are with and how they take jokes. If there is any confussion on if you think it would be harmful or hurtful i think that you should choose not to say it.

I'm an American and if someone told me a fat joke about America, I would not take any offense. Like if you told a blonde joke to somone with blonde hair, they most likely won't take offense. They would maybe find it more funny, if they have done something similar to the person in the joke. On the other side if you told an asian person a joke about how assuming all asians are smart, thye may get very upset and you could get in trouble for racism. Some asian people may not take offense, but they are still not nice jokes. It can be almost like an insult to someones nationality, culture, or looks.

Overall I agree with the essay though, and stereo types are wrong. Our world has changed a lot and no two people are the same. With that being said everyone is entitiles to a fair chance at becoming whatever they want to. They shouldn't have to take the backround of what people who may be completely different to them's backround. It is not fair for everyone to have their personality chosen for them. After reading this, it has changed my judgements are stereotypes. 

I think these setrotypes are completely wrong and should not be used. However, since a lot of these sterotypes are passed on through generations by siblings and or in school they will be very hard to get rid of. Some sterotypes are worse than others though. Especially on the internet and in video game communities people use very racist and wrong sterotypes, most of the time they don't even know what they are saying. These communities are that bad since most of the time the parents aren't supervising them and the kids do not think they will get caught. But also quite a lot of kids will use sterotypes in school to prove some or make themsleves fell better. For example , a child may not study for a test and get a worse grade on a test than a child who did study and was Asian. The child is likely to say that the other child only got good grade because the were Asian when actually it was their fault in not studying that made them have a bad grade. Also in places where there are not as many different ethnic groups sterotypes tend to hang around longer.This is because there aren't people from that race or ethnicity to disprove that sterotypes and thus it stays with them. Finally, I think sterotypes are very bad and often misunderstod ideas of what people are and their behavior.

I think that this discussion is really well thought out and I totally agree. I think stereotypes are very rude towards people of some cultures that are just trying to follow along with their culture some don't even to be used in a stereotype. How everyone thinks that if you throw a penny a Jewish person will dive after it. But no that's wrong. Jewish people really don't behave like that, it's just in their culture that they like to save money Jewish people can be like that but others can too. You can throw a penny and an asian would go after it. It's plain wrong to judge someone like that.

    Like Italians, I'm italian and I play soccer with a good team, so every calls me a pasta eating "Futbol playing" Guido. First of all, I like pasta because it's in my culture. I'm not obsessed with it. I love soccer, I'm obsessed with it but British like soccer alot to. I don't hear this their. Whoever makes these stereotypes are just messed up. That would be like me seeing a Spanish person chewing gum. And say All spanish chew gum. And I would throw gum at all spanish people I see. NO!! That's just wrong. It's unfair to be juged like that, whether your just following your culture or just doing something you enjoy. No one has the right to make a stereo type like that. And no not all blondes are dumb. I know kids that are in the highest level of math in my school that are blonde. Asians just have a good work ethic that's why they are judged as smart. It doesn't mean they are smart. It just means they like to learn. I agree 100% with this guy and we should get rid a stereotypes.

I think that this discussion is really well thought out and I totally agree. I think stereotypes are very rude towards people of some cultures that are just trying to follow along with their culture some don't even to be used in a stereotype. How everyone thinks that if you throw a penny a Jewish person will dive  after it. But no that's wrong. Jewish people can be like that but others can too. You can throw a penny and an asian would go after it. It's plain wrong to judge someone like that. Like Italians, I'm italian and I play soccer with a good team, so every calls me a asta eating "Futbol playing" Guido. First of all, I like pasta because it's in my culture. I'm not obsessed with it. I love soccer, I'm obsessed with it but British like soccer alot to. I don't hear this their. Whoever makes these stereotypes are just messed up. That would be like me seeing a Spanish person chewing gum. And say All spanish chew gum. IAnd I would throw gum at all spanish people I see. NO!! That's just wrong. It's unfair to be juged like that, whether your just following your culture or just doing something you enjoy. No one has the right to make a stereo type like that. And no not all blondes are dumb. I know kids that are in the highest level of math in my school that are blonde. Asians just have a good work ethic that's why they are judged as smart. It doesn't mean they are smart. It just means they like to learn. I agree 100% with this guy and we should get rid a stereotypes.

I definitly agree with you from everything you have said about stereotypes. We all have to face the facts that the world has changed since 1990, but with stereotypes, it hasnt. Everyone has there own opinions about different people. If you see a Muslim you might think there a terrorist, or if you see black people with tattos you might think that there in a gang or might rob you. If you listen to the examples im giving you its cruel. Were judging people that we havent said one word to them, or even know anything about there life. For all we know they could be the smartest, richest, and nicest person in the world and that does not depend on their religion or race. I always hear people in the halls saying to their friends "Omg shes such a stupid blonde like what is she saying? Shes so stupid" or "Did you hear he got a 100 on that math test? Yeah well hes an asian" or "Hes so fat" For all we can know he could have a health condition. I personally do not think that these quotes  have anything to do with the person. Its ok if your smart, or not the smartest or even a little overweight.

At first you might think its funny, because my friends always call me a dumb blonde and I would always laugh along with them. I admit it was funny at how stupid I was. But recently they just made a comment really get to me, and I realized they were laughing at me not with me. It really hurt. Stereotypes are definitly wrong but the kids in our generation have it set in their mind that its funny. Throughout generations are grandparents and parents have influenced us on what to think of each religion and race. But guess what? its wrong! We have to make our own decisions and treat other people the same way you would want to be treated. Sterotypes have to end. The next time you want to judge someone, think again.

I think that this discussion is really well thought out and I totally agree. I think stereotypes are very rude towards people of some cultures that are just trying to follow along with their culture some don't even to be used in a stereotype. How everyone thinks that if you throw a penny a Jewish person will dive  after it. But no that's wrong. Jewish people can be like that but others can too. You can throw a penny and an asian would go after it. It's plain wrong to judge someone like that. Like Italians, I'm italian and I play soccer with a good team, so every calls me a asta eating "Futbol playing" Guido. First of all, I like pasta because it's in my culture. I'm not obsessed with it. I love soccer, I'm obsessed with it but British like soccer alot to. I don't hear this their. Whoever makes these stereotypes are just messed up. That would be like me seeing a Spanish person chewing gum. And say All spanish chew gum. IAnd I would throw gum at all spanish people I see. NO!! That's just wrong. It's unfair to be juged like that, whether your just following your culture or just doing something you enjoy. No one has the right to make a stereo type like that. And no not all blondes are dumb. I know kids that are in the highest level of math in my school that are blonde. Asians just have a good work ethic that's why they are judged as smart. It doesn't mean they are smart. It just means they like to learn. I agree 100% with this guy and we should get rid a stereotypes.

I think that this discussion is really well thought out and I totally agree. I think stereotypes are very rude towards people of some cultures that are just trying to follow along with their culture some don't even to be used in a stereotype. How everyone thinks that if you throw a penny a Jewish person will dive after it. But no that's wrong. Jewish people can be like that but others can too. You can throw a penny and an asian would go after it. It's just in the Jewish culture, that hey like to save money. It's plain wrong to judge someone like that.

          Like Italians, I'm italian and I play soccer with a good team, so every calls me a pasta eating "Futbol playing" Guido. First of all, I like pasta because it's in my culture. I'm not obsessed with it. I love soccer, I'm obsessed with it but British like soccer alot to. I don't hear this their. Whoever makes these stereotypes are just messed up. That would be like me seeing a Spanish person chewing gum, and say All spanish chew gum. And I would throw gum at all spanish people I see. NO!! That's just wrong. It's unfair to be juged like that, whether your just following your culture or just doing something you enjoy. No one has the right to make a stereo type like that. And no not all blondes are dumb. I know kids that are in the highest level of math in my school that are blonde. Asians just have a good work ethic that's why they are judged as smart. It doesn't mean they are smart. It just means they like to learn. I agree 100% with this guy and we should get rid of evstereotypes.

I totally agree Lulu! Stereotypes definitely make people hurt and even in some severe cases commit suicide. It's crazy how this world works, we say we want world peace yet we are the reason that is hard to achieve. We are our own road block to an equal society. I definitely agree with your conclusion and I think we should all try harder as citizens to make people feel welcome!

I agree that stereotypes are wrong, but yet so common in our society. I often point out how stereotypical I'm being when I say certain things or act certain ways. I compare people to the stereotypes they're put in so often. And I find it so strange how common they are. Why do we always find a way to catorgerize everyone into these these subjects, ideas, and personalities simply because of they're skin, gender, or even just the sport they play or way they dress? How is it that simply because someone's blonde it means they are preppy, annoying, or stupid? I agree with your answer though. It's beacause "our society is greatly imperfect" we can't deal with differences so we pretend they don't exist. Everyone who looks that way, acts that way. Everyone that does this, also does that. It's so unaccurate for us to assume things like that, but we all do it, whether we catch ourselves are not. Stereotypes are maybe impossible to completely get rid of, but we can try our hardest.

Lulu did a great job explaining the negative effects of stereotyping, but she did also say that some stereotype jokes are "silly". I don't think we can dismiss any sort of stereotyping, because they still contribute to what society expects out of a certain group of people. Where would we draw the line between silly and insensitive stereotypes?

I can promise you that I have heard my share of
" Dumb Blonde" jokes. I agree with you on the stereotypes, I have
been referred to as a dumb blonde more than once, I have heard people talk
about people who are dressed differently, and I have seen people become scared
of Muslims. In our society, stereotypes are all around us. Once people see
something, they think something. I have to admit I stereotype people as soon as
I see. I automatically think "smart" or "weirdo" when I see
someone different than me. I think stereotyping is in human nature. If people
can go without assuming someone fits into a certain category, the world would
be a better place. Stereotypes lead to produce and discrimination. The human brain
automatically categorizes people into groups. It groups people totally
different into one single category. Just other day I heard someone say a racist
joke. I don't think people realize the effect those jokes have on others. I
totally agree with you. If everyone thought that differences were okay and
acceptable in society, life would be more enjoyable.

i agree with you when you said that "stereotypes are wrong." people should not stereotype other people just because one person from that race or religion did something, everyone is different some people are good some people are bad.

I totally 100% agree that stereotypes hurt more than people know. I also agree that society is the problem because it is socially accepted to make these jokes almost everywhere. And the road to stop stereotyping does start with the individual but i think in order to make a lot of individuals be committed to making it stop they would have to advertise this problem a lot more so it eventually becomes socially acceptable to stand up against stereotypes.

I completely agree when you say that "Stereotypes are wrong, most simply put, but they have been ingrained into our mind sets from day one. From our parents and grandparents we receive our views and perspectives, however misguided and biased they may be." We do not simple conjure up ideas about people of a certain race or religion. Our families have, maybe inadvertently, given us certain assumptions about people. I also believe that people do not understand how much stereotypes can hurt people. Already assuming things about someone's character can have a very negative impact on them.

I agree that stereotyping is a problem. I am Lebanese and when i tell people that they think of terrorists and pretty much negative things. But i was born in America, I am Catholic and my Aunt was a victim of 9/11. People need to start to have an open mind about other cultures and other peoples features. Blondes are definitely not all stupid! For example Hillary Clinton, the United States Secretary of State went to Yale University and she is blonde. There is no way you can say that she is dumb! Another stereotype is that Americans are fat/ obese. that to me is ridiculous. If all Americans are fat then how did we win 104 gold medals this Olympics? People take things to the extreme sometimes. If the obesity rate in America is a little high then people start to think that all Americans are fat. We as the future parents of children we need to all stop teaching kids stereotypes until eventually all stereotypes are gone. Some may think that its not possible but look how much America has grown since the 1950s. Now we have a black president and women can vote. If we all start to except everyone stereotypes will die down. Overall, stereotypes will probably disappear eventually but we should make that happen quicker.

Dear Lulu:

I am intrigued with your post "Dumb Blondes, Smart Asians, and Fat Americans," because you were able to perfectly scrutinize the idea of stereotypes. Your thoughts were very relevant to this date and age and made a wonderful point: we have yet to accept people as individuals and not base our relationship on the person’s background.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "From our parents and grandparents we receive our views and perspectives, however misguided and biased they may be." I think this is true because coming from a conservative family, most of my present day views come from the dinner table. From a young age I heard many opinions of people that were based on my parent’s own experiences. These weren't exactly stereotypes and I was strictly told never to voice them but they gave me constraints when meeting new people. Though Queens is the most ethnically diverse neighborhood in the country, most of my childhood I was surrounded by the same ethnic groups. When I came to my new school I met so many other people whose cultures were so different and I started making my own conclusions. I found that any group could be awesome and anyone could be nasty. It wasn't the race that determined the person, it was what the person did with the quality of their upbringing.

Another sentence that I could connect to was: "However there are more insensitive and unkind judgments that sometimes slither into our daily dialogue. Some like lazy Mexicans, all Muslims are terrorists, and Jews are greedy and selfish." This stood out for me because I think that these stereotypes are the things that hold back groups from reaching full potential. If someone tells you you are worthless so many times you can get two things out of it: You are inspired to do better to prove their thoughts wrong or you feel discouraged and start believing the stereotypes. For most people the later happens. These insensitive and very untrue taunts make people start living the stereotypes. Because of these biased thoughts people become the words said about them.

I do strongly agree with you that these taunts are untrue. One reason I say this is in the stereotypes you pointed out I have personal experience proving wrong. Blonds are not dumb as two of my very best friends, both blondes, are some of the brightest people I know. Americans, as I have rarely spotted an overweight one, are definitely not always obese. Mexicans are hardworking and Jews (ahem, I'm one) are definitely not all greedy, though I understand were the stereotypes came from.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because your writing is very thought intriguing.

Dear Lulu,

I am very interested by your post, "Dumb Blondes, Smart Asians and Fat Americans" because you thoroughly described the topic and showed how clearly wrong this treatment is. No one deserves to be treated like this. I think that it is the worst of insults.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is “Why can't our society be filled with people of different races and cultures that all blend together with no difficulties?" I think this is a very good question because it makes you think. Why isn’t this possible? Why are we still stuck in the old ways? Why don’t people just get along?

Another sentence that held my attention was “Some like lazy Mexicans, all Muslims are terrorists, and Jews are greedy and selfish. But people do not realize how hurtful these stereotypes can be." This stood out for me because like stated here, these stereotypical things can be very hurtful. Why would you say that about someone. Maybe one person in the whole entire group acts in a way that you don’t like. You don’t know that you’re hurting the others who are just minding their own business being the nice people that they are.

I do agree with you that stereotypes are in the way of people thriving. One reason I say this is because it will harm their self-esteem and with everyone downing themselves, they won’t feel the need to do anything. There would be no motivation for them. They will think that they can not do anything so why try?

Another reason I agree with you is because you gave many examples of things that we do in fact witness all the time. For example: “Some of them are silly and common, like dumb blondes, smart Asians, and fat Americans.”

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you did a wonderful job and it was a great emotion and fact-filled document!

Hey lewsquared , i totally agree with your post . Alot of things had changed dramaticlly throughout the 100 years . I want to address the sentence where you said "However there are more insensitive and unkind judgements that sometimes slither into our daily dialogue" because , it is very comman for someone to slip and say wrds that they dont mean . This school year ( at the begging ) i was racist to some of the latinos in my class , because i thought it was funny , but i learned not everyone has the humo that i do . Your post opended my eyes to stop looking down on people and having them feel bad because of where they come from and how they were raised and brought up in this world . Thank you for this uplifting post .I hope to see more of your post in the future to read alot more of your thoughts .I agree with your post because you type alot of real things that are going on in society now and days . You should start writing more post , hope to see your post more often :) Thanks again lewsquared .

Dear lewsquared
I am relieved by your post ‘’Dumb Blondes, Smart Asians, and Fat Americans’’

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Gay people are normal occurrences in today's society, but they aren't allowed to marry. If this is supposed to be an era of change and equality, why do these old habits linger? Why can't our society be filled with people of different races and cultures that all blend together with no difficulties" I think this is a great comment because its true that people today have large difficulties accepting change. When talking about change I mean in seeing things not every ancient american is use to. Such as gays, overly tattooed people, and even interracial couples. America does come across to others as a country that is equal mainly because of the laws. Yet this does not dig deep in the real facts on how even though people are forced to be use to the new ways that people live life, does not mean that they approve

Dear Lulu:

I am interested by your post, "Dumb Blonds Smart Asians and Fat Americans" because even though people do not have freedom to do what they feel to do but people still get criticized about what they are doing. They don’t even have to do it with words the way they look at you they know that they are going to talk about you.One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "The reason is stereotypes." I think this is very true because people might not know anything about the person's race but they think they know a lot about the person so they just repeat what they hear other people saying. But what they don’t know is that they are just hurting the other person.
Another sentence that I enjoyed was: "Stereotypes are wrong, most simply put, but they have been ingrained into our mindsets from day one." This stood out for me because a lot of people want to be funny about what they hear that other people say so then they say it again to be funny but they don’t know they are hurting people’s feelings.
I don't agree with you that Mexicans are lazy One reason I say this is because I am Mexican and i am not lazy at all! I go to school everyday and I am never late to any of my classes and i do everything i am told to do so. Another reason I disagree with you is because Mexicans are fit they do things they work to be able to give to their family everything they want just like another normal family would do.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you do have solid points. You also give off positive points about what you have to say and you are really direct about what you want to say.

Dear Lulu,

I agree with your post, "Dumb Blondes, Smart Asians, and Fat Americans," stereotypes can be hurtful and angering.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: "Why can't our society be filled with people of different races and cultures that all blend together with no difficulties?" I think this is because bad things stand out more than good things to the eyes of the public. They get more amazed when they hear of someone robbing a bank than someone ordinary giving something for charity. When it happens often, they can turn into usually bad stereotypes. You say that stereotypes are the answer to your question, and I say they are part of it. Stereotypes, being heard so many times, can lead someone into believing them. Even if some may say to themselves that those stereotypes are not true, there will still be some traces of them influencing some people’s acts around others. I know this because, sadly, it is true about me and so many others I know.

Thanks for your writing because I can see you are trying to help make the world a better place.

Dear Lulu :

I am pleased with your post, "Dumb Blondes, Smart Asians, and Fat American," because I find stereotypes to be an extremely interesting topic. I also find your post to be interesting because you touched a bit on the topic of change and how people are in desperate need for change yet no one has an open mind to help the situation.

I found your title to be very intriguing because the stereotypes mentioned within it are most commonly used and I think they are ridiculous. Yes a majority of stereotypes have a bit of truth within them but I believe that judging an individual's personality based on nothing but a famous rumor is ridiculous.

One sentence that I stood out to me was: "However to change our society we must make a change within ourselves.." I found this interesting because we constantly talk about change and a better society yet no one is willing to change themselves. We are society, and if we do not change ourselves then society will never change.

I do agree with you that stereotypes are wrong and biased. One should not be judged based on their stereotype and race should have no contribution to the opinions formed by others.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because you wrote this post during the time the legalization of gay marriages was still not determined. Now that the law has been passed I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on the situation.

Dear Lulu

I am interested with your post, “Dumb Blondes, Smart asians, and Fat Americans” because not everybody believes that stereotypes are harmful but the way you put it proves them wrong. Also because there are many people who always say stereotypes that they think is fully true but it’s not and i liked the fact that you disagreed with them.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is, “The world has changed alot since the 1900's.” I think it’s interesting because even though the world has changed people instead of being racist they now use stereotypes in a harmful way, which they can't see until does who made fun of you with stereotype are humiliated the same way. Also because this shows that the world hasn't changed at all because they're just using a “better way” to not offend people or seem racist, but they still are doing it.
Another sentence that I agreed with was “From our parents and grandparents we receive our views and perspectives, however misguided and biased they may be.” This stood out for me because the way you put it couldn't be any clearer; the way your family or friends talk to you about other people from other races you start seeing them that way and start judging as well.
I totally agree with you that for us to discontinue using these harmful stereotypes are by condemning them because if people don't stop than people are continuously continue to be harm. Another reason i agree with you is because not everybody sees things this way like the fact that these stereotypes harm people because no one has probably yet made fun of them in a stereotype of way and you seem to have understand clearly how it feels to be harmed by that.
Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because it was interesting in seeing you write something for people to realize their harmful effects. Also for breaking it up to the people who don't want to understand things so they might get a better view of what you trying to say.

Dear Lulu :

I was really interested in your post “ Dumb Blondes, Smart Asians, and Fat Americans” because I was able to agree with many of the statements that you made. The world has actually changed a lot. Even though many people are equal now in this society, there are still many people who say false things about a certain race or a females/males. Also I believe that it is sometimes a little wrong to say some of these stereotypical jokes because certain people might really feel offended.

One line that really stands out for me is “ They may just be teasing, but when they tease people about them they turn from harmless jokes to cruel insults.” This stood out to me because it is incredible how many people harm other by accident. When many people say all these jokes they are not really thinking how the the person on the other side is feeling. I think that is the problem. Another line that stood out was “ Even though society will never be perfect, having everyone love each others differences will make our world a little more beautiful.” This stood out to me because I believe this is totally true. I know the world would never be perfect because nobody is perfect but if people try to understand each other the world would be a better place. If people just tried to get along many conflicts would be avoided.

Thank you for writing this post because I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading your next post because you were able to support your opinion. Also you pick a really good topic. Keep on the good writing.

Dear Lulu :

I am impressed with your post, “Dumb blondes, Smart Asians, and Fat Americans”, because not a lot of people understand how these jokes/comments actually affect the people its about. I for one do make smart remarks about Jewish people because they are known for being very wealthy and extremely greedy when it comes to others being as wealthy as they are.

One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is:”The reason is stereotypes. You hear them everyday, whether it be through media and television or through daily conversations; stereotypical jokes come up all the time.” I think this is true because family guy makes racist comments but I don’t always catch on unless an adult explains it to me.

Another sentence that I found interesting was: “Stereotypes are wrong, most simply put, but they have been ingrained into our mind sets from day one.”
This stood out for me because that isn’t completely true and then again it is a little because, not all families are the same in the sense of they make racist jokes/ comments towards other nationalities. I do completely agree with you that However to change our society we must make a change within ourselves. To discontinue the hate and unfairness, we must condemn the use of them entirely.
One reason I say this is because we can’t change society unless we start with ourselves. Another reason I agree with you is society is difficult to change but little by little society will become better.

Thanks for your writing. I look forward to seeing what you write next, because more people need to think like us. Great minds think alike and I hope society changes because being prejudice doesn’t make anyone feel better about themselves.

Dear Lulu,

Thank  you for your thoughts about equality and stereotypes. I especially like how you say:  "The truth is this: unless we completely detest them, our society will remain greatly imperfect. Even though society will never be perfect, having everyone love each others differences will make our world a little more beautiful."

The first step in resolving stereotypes is knowing that they exists, and that we are all a part of it, willingly or not. Like you said, we could be raised with prejudiced thoughts and be completely unaware of it. 

The fact that you are making an effort to start a discussion about stereotypes is in itself one of the best way to defeat them.

Best wishes,

Mr. Wong (a high school English Teacher)