Is Intolerance Just a "Blind Spot" For Some Folks?

     Day 2 of a professional development seminar took place at the ROE last Thursday.  One thing that was discussed early in the day was the idea of "blind spots".  I kept wondering to myself if the use of the term blind spot was a nice way to spin prejudice and discrimination.  I kept wondering if using the label "blink spot" was accurate.  Since last Thursday, I find myself feeling a little mixed on the notion.
     I believe if the intolerance genuinely is innocent ignorance, then using the label of "blind spot" may be accurate and helpful to an examination, discussion, or analysis of how discrimination or prejudice may exist.  In thinking about our own school, I'm confident we have students with "blind spots".  In fact, an important part of the message on Thursday is that we ALL have blind spots as humans, and that we shouldn't beat ourselves up over that reality.
     If the intolerance, though, is an intentional intolerance after having an opportunity to explore possible blind spots, then the label no longer seems to be appropriate.  The intolerance then seems to be legitimate discrimination and/or prejudice.  I expressed at the end of the day that I truly believe that we are making positive strides towards improved cultural competency and improved acceptance of others, but my fear was that the folks with intolerance seem to hold more intensity in their feelings.
     What brings me to think about this is that on Thursday evening, I was asked by another teacher to co-sponsor our new RHS Minority Club.  I still am not sure as an older white male that I'm a perfect fit for the role, but I genuinely do want to be helpful if I can be.  And I think having a discussion with the members of the club about "blind spots" that exist in our school will be helpful to the members and potentially helpful to our school.
     A big part of the Day 2 training also discussed ways for schools or organizations to attempt to eliminate bias.  I admit that I'm still working to wrap my brain around that concept, even though I believe I understand the definition of bias.  Maybe a little fear exists in my brain that more bias is in there whether or realize it or not, so maybe it's a good thing I get to explore that a little further.  Perhaps the minority club can help me see that a bit more.
     A bit of a controversy for the Minority Club is deciding who can be welcomed into the club and who cannot.  Apparently, at the last meeting, some students visited who didn't seem sincere.  In fact, I know there were some students that attended because they felt offended.  While these students didn't express themselves out loud, I think they felt wronged that a minority club could exist and be accepted when a "majority club" might be frowned upon.
     I'm interested to see where all of this can lead to help all of our students improve their cultural competency!