Different forms of racism from "summary" of How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
Racism, as I understand it, is a deeply ingrained system of power that empowers certain groups while oppressing others. It manifests in various forms and operates through different channels, all of which serve to perpetuate racial inequality and injustice. One form of racism is individual racism, which is the prejudiced beliefs and discriminatory actions of individuals towards people of different races. This can take the form of overt acts of violence or discrimination, as well as subtler forms such as microaggressions and biases. Individual racism is often the most visible form of racism, but it is just one piece of the larger puzzle. Another form of racism is institutional racism, which refers to the ways in which policies and practices within institutions such as schools, workplaces, and government agencies perpetuate racial inequality. These systems may not be explicitly racist, but they have a disproportionate impact on people of color, reinforcing existing power imbalances. Structural racism is a more complex and pervasive form of racism that encompasses both individual and institutional racism. It is the overarching system that upholds white supremacy and advantages white people at the expense of people of color. This system is deeply entrenched in our society and requires a comprehensive approach to dismantle. Cultural racism is another form of racism that is often overlooked but equally detrimental. It refers to the ways in which cultural norms, stereotypes, and representations reinforce racist beliefs and perpetuate racial hierarchies. This can include the portrayal of certain races in the media, cultural appropriation, and the erasure of marginalized voices and experiences.- These various forms of racism are interconnected and reinforce each other, creating a complex web of oppression that affects people of color in myriad ways. To be truly antiracist, we must not only confront individual acts of racism but also work to dismantle the larger systems and structures that uphold racial inequality. It is only through a holistic and intersectional approach that we can hope to create a more just and equitable society for all.
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