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Racist Is as Racist Does

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Submitted By karamagara
Words 493
Pages 2
‘Racist is as racist does’ is an article written by Carolyn Cooper a professor of literary and cultural studies at the University of the West Indies, Mona. The article was published in the Jamaica Gleaner on Sunday January 29, 2012. Ms Cooper’s article gives her audience a treat with diverse perspectives on racism and real life expressions most Jamaicans could find relatable. In her persuasive delivery she places great emphasis on the distinction between the hidden and upfront racists.

The article boldly opens with strong statements about the barefaced convictions of some racists who do not shy away from their beliefs. The argument progresses and introduces us to the other racists that are more elusive in their position. Cooper takes her readers on a historical journey of facts that leads to situational scenarios which mocks the categorical racists as she has defined them, supporting her views by a well laid analogy of the breadfruit which most Jamaicans would appreciate. ‘Racist is as racist does’ unfolds relatable experiences and information with humour, supportive content and objectivity that makes the article a delightfully balanced work.

The organization of the work is somewhat disjointed and has a lapse in fluency in the beginning, when Cooper takes us through historical facts that may have bearing on the core of what she is attempting to communicate but appears to be a roundabout way to get to her ultimate resolve. However once she recoups we find a delightful representation of scenarios as experienced in Jamaica, with witty subtitles to lead her arguments.

The article is written is definitely written in favour of a Jamaican audience or any other person that can appreciate our local vernacular, patois. While standard English is used, the use of patois throughout the article adds dimension and life to the tone and mood making room for humour, wit and

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