I completely agree that sexism and racism are like viruses tearing apart the fabric of our nation. When we allow divisions between individuals based on gender or race, we are undermining the many factors that we have in common, like patriotism and pride. As educators, we must continuously encourage unity and a sense of "togetherness." Without expereriencing events like September 11th to unite us all, how will our students ever be open to working together toward a common goal in the future? We must put aside our prejudices and focus on what unties us, not divides us.