Since the 18th century, the Amish have been a part of history. They have a unique origin from northwest Europe, have an interesting lifestyle, and may allow outsiders to observe their ways. There are various types of Amish people with different ethnic backgrounds, which brings the question of if there’s racism within the Amish Community.
Amish Origin
The Amish culture originated in northwestern Europe, and migrated to avoid persecution due to their beliefs in Europe. It was founded by a man named Jakob Amman who believed the Christian church should have stricter rules and regulations that were similar to the bible during the Old Testament. For example, instead of holding communion once a day, he suggested it should be twice a day.
Additionally, he suggested that men should not shave their beards as it says in the bible (Leviticus 21:5), or that women should not dress in flashy or alluring clothing. (1 Timothy 2:9-10) In the modern world, the Amish are commonly known to wear simple clothing, men wearing a plain shirt and pants, and women wearing dresses (typically pink, dark blue, or brown) with a hair bonnet on at all times.
A typical day for the Amish includes waking up early in the morning, the men tending to the farm while the women tend to the children, keep the house clean and provide additional help on the farm.
Racial Diversity Among the Amish
Although the Amish originated from northwestern Europe, there are black Amish folk within the community, however, there isn’t a huge amount (around 10,000 people). Most black Amish folk live in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and are linked with European ancestry.
While the black Amish follow most of the Amish traditions, there are few differences within their customs. For example, black Amish women may wear normal hats instead of bonnets when going outside. Additionally, when the Amish use their preferred transportation called the “shay”, they will have the inside covered by the hood. The black Amish however, typically do not use the hood when driving their shays.
In other cases, a white Amish family will adopt a black child and introduce them to the Amish belief and its customs, afterwards it is their decision whether they continue with the Amish lifestyle in adulthood.
However, regardless of the adopted child’s ethnic background, they will need to be officially baptized before becoming a part of the Amish community. Furthermore, there are also Latino Amish who reside within Lancaster County.
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The Amish and Racism
There hasn’t been any official cases of racism within the Amish community. However, outsiders may assume otherwise given their views on interracial couples, but this is further from the truth.
The Amish do not care about race nor do they condone racism. In fact, this is why the adoption of babies from different ethic backgrounds among the Amish has increased, because the Amish believe they are protected their babies from a harsh world of racism. And because they do not focus on individuality, the color of one’s skin does not matter.
Furthermore, it’s important to note, the bible states one should not judge one’s appearances and that everyone is the same in God’s eyes, and the Amish strictly follow these principles as it is the word of God. Although the Amish accept people of all races within their community, they do not encounter a-lot of people outside their race. Overall, that are generally friendly people who keep to themselves and respect all who give them respect in return.
Can outsiders join the Amish?
Yes, outsiders are welcome to join the Amish community. However, unlike the Mormon religion, the Amish do not reach out to others to join their community. If one feels led within oneself, one must live their life according to the bible.
In the past, the Amish find outsiders having a difficult time adjusting to a life without television, social media, or modern automobiles. To truly become a part of the Amish community one must learn the Dutch and Swiss German dialects. However, Dutch and English are more commonly used. Listed below are some common phrases:
| English | Dutch | Swiss German |
| Easter Egg | Oschderoi | Oschtere |
| Home | Heemet | Heimat |
| Church | Gmee | Kirche |
As stated previously, the Amish do not have a problem with other races wanting to join their community, but when it comes to one of their own marrying someone outside of their community there will be concerns.
Firstly, the parents of any Amish family would want their children to continue the Amish lifestyle of beliefs throughout adulthood for their well-being. Secondly, the parents would want their grandchildren to be raised in the Amish lifestyle.
And lastly, whomever is the outsider of the couple will have a difficult time adjusting to the Amish way of life, and this may bring tension in the marriage. Additionally, it’s also important to note, whichever spouse is joining the Amish community must be baptized, any refusal to do so may result in shunning within the community.
Conclusion
The Amish have been apart of history for generations, and have such a unique perspective on how life is lived. Even today they constantly teach us that life is not all about material things, but by appreciating the small things in life. If one decides to follow the Amish way of life, one will find the true meaning of life and happiness within oneself.
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