Feeling unwanted can be the most heartbreaking feeling to experience, but being told you don't belong because of something as simple as race is infinitely more crushing. In the United States this is still very common; and not just against one race. There are many cities, even states, that are considered racially oriented. This is especially horrible because people try to say that racism is a thing of the past, when the truth is almost the opposite. For example, if a black-white mixed couple were to show affection in public, they would likely be shunned or receive dirty looks and/or sarcastic comments. Additionally, another big factor that keeps racism alive is the fact that it is considered okay for some races to say words or phrases that other races cannot say, especially in areas such as the media. Racism is still a big problem in the United States; and as long as people continue to blame their race for their behavior, racism will only grow, which will prevent the country from moving forward towards greater things, like scientific discoveries, for example. Race-Oriented Cities Although many people probably wouldn't care to admit it, most cities are judged by the race that dominates them. For example, if one were to plan a vacation in California, one would most likely stay in a “safe” city. This basically means that they would stay away from cities with a bad reputation, like Watts or Compton, but in reality those cities received that reputation because of the actions of previous residents. However, most cities like these are making efforts to free themselves from this reputation. According to a study conducted by Brown University in 2010, the most diverse city in the country is Vallejo-Fairfield, CA; where for example approximately 41% of the… half of the card appears… Instead of simply using words like brother or partner, they choose to use the “N” word. Why? Is it because they are trying to separate themselves from other races? Or maybe because they are still clinging to the past? Unfortunately, the use of this degrading slang is so ingrained in society that most people use it without being fully aware of it. Furthermore, the use of derogatory slang is not limited to the black community; even most Hispanics or Pacific Islanders can use the "N" word without fear of being racist. So, if artists used the “N” word in their music, or in everyday speech, it would be acceptable to society as long as they are not white. Works Cited www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/07/most-least- diverse-cities-brown-university-study_n_1865715.html#slide=1490229www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/the-n-word-and-how- to-use-it/Content?oid=895154