Fildenahim.com Racism is a social phenomenon that often occurs in our neighbourhood. As part of society, we certainly need to understand the meaning of racism.
In simple terms, racism can be defined as an act of looking down on others because of their race and characteristics.
In this article, we will explore the meaning of racism, look at some of the types of racism that exist, and present examples of racist behaviour that often occurs. Here is the explanation.
Understanding the Meaning of Racist
Racism is an attitude, action or policy that is based on the belief that some races or ethnic groups. Racism is an attitude, action, or policy based on the belief that some races or ethnic groups are inherently better or inferior to other races or ethnic groups.
Racism is discrimination and prejudice against people based on their race or ethnicity. It involves the belief that racial differences have significant implications in terms of an individual’s ability, character, or worth.
Racist thinking is fueled by prejudices and stereotypes that are not based on real facts or experiences, but rather on false and inaccurate perceptions.
Types of Racism
Racist attitudes themselves consist of several types, including the following:
1. Individual Racism
This occurs when individuals directly convey attitudes, actions, or comments that demean or disadvantage other individuals based on their racial type.
For example, racial slurs, harassment, or refusal to cooperate with someone simply because of their skin colour or ethnic origin.
2. Systemic Racism
This type of racism relates to policies, practices, and social structures that systematically affect and restrict individuals or groups based on their race.
It can be seen in discrimination in the workplace, unequal access to education or housing, and injustices in the criminal justice system.
3. Institutional Racism
This form of racism refers to attitudes, actions or policies by public or private institutions that directly or indirectly affect individuals based on their race.
Examples of this are racial discrimination in hiring or denial of public services based on race.
4. Internalised Racism
This refers to racist attitudes held by members of a particular ethnic group towards their own ethnic group.
A possible example is discrimination by an individual against individuals of the same ethnic group who are perceived as not conforming to cultural or ethnic norms.
Examples of Racism in Our Neighbourhood
Here are some examples of racism in the neighbourhood:
- Racial discrimination in the workplace: An individual with a different racial background faces unfair treatment in terms of promotion, salary, or job opportunities simply because of their race.
- Racial profiling by authorities: Law enforcement authorities unfairly stop, search, or detain individuals based on their physical appearance or race without a legitimate reason.
- Racial prejudice in education: A student experiences mistreatment or neglect from classmates or school staff because of their skin colour or ethnic origin.
- Racial stereotyping in the media: The mass media presents certain racial groups in a way that demeans or reinforces existing negative stereotypes.
- Discriminatory immigration policies: Governments implement policies that explicitly restrict access or provide unfair treatment to individuals from certain ethnic groups to enter or stay in a country.
Based on the explanation above, it can be seen that the meaning of racism is an attitude or action based on the belief that one race or ethnic group is better or inferior to another.