The novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee is a timeless classic that for decades has brought to light the profound effects of racism. In the story, Tom Robinson is an innocent black man who is wrongfully convicted and sentenced to death for allegedly raping a white woman. Though he had nothing to do with it, Robinson was judged solely on his skin color and treated as guilty without any chance of defending himself in court. The harsh reality of this event is still felt today, showing how far society has yet to progress in its treatment of people from different backgrounds.
Write an essay on how Tom Robinson was judged wrongly due to his skin color, and how racism has occurred in the past and still today
Throughout history, there have been countless examples where individuals were persecuted due to their race or physical features – slavery being one of the most notable ones. It was only two centuries ago when African Americans were considered property rather than human beings, allowed no right nor equal treatment under the law. Even after slavery ended in 1865, these issues remained deeply rooted in society’s perception towards other races – something evident even today as minorities continue facing discrimination and injustice both economically and socially.
In To Kill a Mockingbird, we are shown just how little value white people placed on black lives during 1930s Alabama: when Mayella Ewell accused Tom Robinson of rape everyone had already assumed his guilt simply because he was black; also despite Atticus Finch’s passionate defense against such judgmental views through logical arguments presented in court (clearly proving Tom’s innocence) still the all-white jury ruled him guilty without hesitation or consideration for evidence presented by both sides.. This speaks volumes about true bias amongst majority race during those days – they saw themselves superior compared to others no matter what facts may suggest otherwise – prejudice often took precedence over justice when dealing with minority groupings like African Americans back then .
Tom Robinson’s wrongful conviction serves as an example for us all to learn from: not only does it show us how far we have yet come regarding equality between races but it also imparts a valuable lesson about not pre-judging someone based on looks alone before getting full comprehension into matters at hand. Preconceived notions has caused much sorrow throughout years leading up till now and if we want our world be more tolerant towards each other than ever before then clearly steps must be taken prevent such errors happening again either willfully or unknowingly by anyone involved . As Atticus Finch so eloquently put it “you never really understand person until you consider things from his point view…until you climb inside their skin” -this stands out strong point which can applied universally help promote more understanding within our societies around world without compromising principles justice & equity too much at same time..
Although society has progressed greatly since 1930s Alabama era , unfortunately racism continues plaguing our nation even today – whether its exclusionary hiring practices/unequal pay wages among certain demographics or unjustified police brutality against non-whites,. The list goes on.. We cannot forget about incident involving Trayvon Martin who lost his life due lack disregarding protecting human rights regardless skin color; moreover recent events Charlottesville 2017 shows us just how deep resentment runs deep some areas toward racial diversity tolerance.. All these acts perpetrated upon innocent lives serve warning sign that American citizens must become aware racist attitudes present within country order enact necessary changes ensure peace prosperity future generations .. Fortunately though many forces pushing forward fight against bigotry discrimination thus creating better environment everyone live harmoniously together regardless background origins etc….
Ultimately , if anything good can drawn tragic fate suffered by Tom Robinson it would be reminder us always strive uphold values justice fairness above anything else no matter situation might appear .. Afterall lessons taught through this story deemed remain relevant years come hope will serve foundation inspiring younger generation take stand tackle pressing issues pertaining racism head-on moving forward create united nation truly embraces diversity takes pride embracing ideals democracy liberty freedom which should enjoyed equally all citizens alike