Systemic Racism
In recent years, the topic of systemic racism has become more and more visible in mainstream media and dialogue. However, despite this increased awareness, many people remain unfamiliar with what systemic racism actually is. In simplest terms, systemic racism refers to the ways in which racial discrimination is built into social, economic, and political systems. This type of racism can be harder to identify than individual instances of prejudice or bigotry, but it can be just as harmful – if not more so. In this blog post, we'll explore some examples of systemic racism and how it manifests in our world today.
Defining systemic racism
Systemic racism is a complex and contested concept, but at its core, it refers to the structures, policies, ideologies and practices that uphold existing forms of inequality based on race. It encompasses both overt discrimination as well as subtle forms of exclusion. Convention to Eliminate Racial Discrimination (CERD) Anti Racism defines systemic racism as “any system or patterned body of laws and practices result[ing] in racial inequity or disadvantage affecting a specific racial group within a regional or larger national context”. As such, systemic racism needs to be understood in the broader context of power relations between bodies and groups with respect to their socio-economic situation, access to resources and opportunities etc. It must also be analyzed from multiple perspectives by engaging in power analysis from different vantage points.
The history of systemic racism
Systemic racism has been embedded in the history of the United States since the formation of White Supremacy and the creation of Supreme Laws of the Land. The US Constitutions defined White Superiority over all other races, leading to struggles for racial equality that persist today. With White Supremacy remaining enshrined in these laws, corporations were able to benefit from this hierarchical model. Consequently, a foundation was created for systemic racism which persists in American life today and is more pervasive than ever before.
How systemic racism manifests in society today
Systemic racism is a prevalent problem in our society today, and it manifests in many forms. Policies, laws, and other structures have been put in place that have ultimately led to the perpetuation of systemic racism. Structural racism can be seen in many spheres, from education to the workplace. Police violence against communities of color have been particularly well-documented and research has identified the disparate impact of such acts on minority groups. Despite signs of progress, significant work still needs to be done to create lasting change within our society.
The impact of systemic racism on people of color
Systemic racism has a profound impact on people of color, manifesting in disparate levels of access to resources and medical care. Racial disparities in health outcomes due to disparate treatment are well documented—for instance, Black and Indigenous Americans disproportionately experience higher rates of chronic illness than White Americans. Epigenetics, too, plays a role in exacerbating the disparate impact of racism, as research indicates that the trauma associated with prejudice can be passed down from parent to child. Exposed to negative experiences and environments, the genes of children of color are primed for stress and disease. The emotional and physical tolls suffered by people of color should not be understated: it is essential to tackle systemic racism head-on if we hope to create a world where everyone can live healthy, thriving lives.
Steps to take to dismantle systemic racism
In order to begin dismantling systemic racism, several key steps must be taken. One of these steps is for society to educate itself in anti-racist practices. Undoing Racism Workshops, developed by the People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond, are an effective way for people to gain a deeper understanding of the history and practice of racism. Additionally, it is essential that governments around the world protect human rights and combat racial discrimination through their legal systems. The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) serves as an effective framework which contains practical measures to advance and assure non-discrimination and equality. By participating in Undoing Racism Workshops as well as abiding by CERD guidelines, governments can take important steps towards dismantling systemic racism.
Systemic racism is a pervasive problem in society that needs to be addressed. It has a long history and manifests itself in many ways, including through institutional policies and individual attitudes. People of color are disproportionately impacted by systemic racism, which can lead to reduced opportunities and poorer life outcomes. To dismantle systemic racism, we need to take steps at the individual, interpersonal, institutional, and societal levels. We must also revisit the tenets outlined in the Durban UN Conference on Racism and Demands for adherence to the Treaty ICERD. Only then can we hope to create a more just and equitable world for everyone. ~rjb
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