1956 High School Exchange Students in USA Debate on Prejudice (2): Philippines, Japan, UK, Indonesia

The discussion begins with each student defining prejudice. Ratnati sees it as a strong feeling of hate, while Yoriko notes it as discrimination based on race. The host defines it as a rigid opinion formed without just examination of facts, often leading to judging individuals based on group affiliation rather than personal dignity.

The students admit to their own prejudices. Raul from the Philippines expresses prejudice against the Japanese due to World War II, which resurfaced when Japan initially refused war reparations. Yoriko from Japan shares a common prejudice among Japanese against Koreans due to a territorial dispute. Judith from the UK admits to silly prejudices against red-headed people and Australian accents, while Ratnati from Indonesia harbors prejudice against the Dutch due to colonial history.

The conversation shifts to prejudices within their own countries. Raul discusses prejudice in the Philippines against 'Mestizos' (those with more Spanish blood), who are often perceived as aristocratic and conceited. Yoriko highlights prejudice in Japan against 'hybrids' – children born from relationships between Japanese women and American or European soldiers – and the social stigma faced by their mothers. Japanese society also generally discourages marriage with foreigners due to cultural differences.

The students discuss differing beauty standards and racial perceptions. Yoriko mentions a Japanese perception that white people are 'horrible' and that beauty is small and delicate. Judith acknowledges a historical European stereotype of Asians as 'lazy,' a point challenged by Ratnati, who explains that the climate affects work tempo and that colonial powers did not provide opportunities for education and development. Raul adds that Filipinos often prefer 'white-collar' jobs.

The American race issue is brought up. Raul sees the core of the prejudice as skin color, with white people not wanting to mix with colored people. While Ratnati and Yoriko haven't directly witnessed overt racial prejudice in New York or New Jersey, Ratnati observes strict segregation in Williamsburg schools and limited access for Black people to public places. Raul questions the American pledge of allegiance for liberty and justice for all, given the existing segregation and discrimination he witnessed at a dance, where white and colored children remained separate. Judith recounts a shocking personal encounter with racial prejudice in the South.

The discussion returns to skin color and beauty ideals. It's noted that white Americans try to get tan, while in the Philippines, high-society women bleach their skin to appear lighter. Ratnati confirms that in Indonesia, people strive for lighter skin, wearing sun-protective clothing. This highlights a global variation in beauty standards related to skin tone.

The students explore what their governments are doing to combat prejudice. Yoriko explains that women in Japan have gained more rights and opportunities since the war. Judith notes that social prejudices in England, such as those against the Cockney accent, have diminished post-war, with regional accents now being accepted in Parliament. The discussion concludes with Raul suggesting that individuals should carefully examine others before passing judgment, aiming for justice and fairness.