Who Created Racism?… And More Such Questions People Have About Racism

Racism is an interesting social issue to dissect. The sheet belief that someone is lesser than you because of their skin color still manages to convenience many. Not only is it asinine, but it also raises many questions. Most importantly, “Who created racism?”

Where does this concept come from?

Was it a pioneer during ancient times, or is it fairly new?

This excerpt below will give some of the most controversial (most asked) questions about racism.

Who Created Racism?

Contrary to popular belief, race is a recent development of our centuries-old civilization. The biggest catalyst of race is the “Transatlantic Slave Trade” during the 16th century. Indeed, slavery was the beginning of racial discrimination.

However, slavery was there even before the 16th century. However, there were questions about its moral implications.

Many believed that enslaving people as commodities was wrong. Right full so!

This brought about a slave crisis, leading white Europeans and Americans to find a justification for the cause. This brought about the concept of ‘race.’

People all over started accommodating the idea that dark-skinned individuals are inferior to them. Therefore, being the superior race, enslavement of the inferior ones is justified.

It was the most tragic part of our history books since there wasn’t no difference in skin color before that. Yes, individuals saw and acknowledged the differences, but discrimination was out of the question.

However, now it is one of the worst social issues our world deals with.

How Does Racism Intersect With Other Forms Of Discrimination?

The Intersectionality of discrimination between race and other social issues is huge. According to a study in 1983 by the US Congress, environmental bodies discovered that  _ in the Southeastern region of the country, most of the untreated landfill waste was near water bodies belonging to areas of underprivileged, low-income communities of color. (Source)

Social ostracization, workplace discrimination (believing they lack intelligence), and criminalization of black communities are just a few of them.

What Is Systematic Racism & Am I Currently A Victim Of It?

Talking about Intersectionality, systematic racism is one of the common examples. This is where racial stereotypes can bleed into other sectors, making it even more difficult for people of color.

Systematic racism, as explained by the Jim Crow Laws, calls for ‘separate and equal.’

To understand whether you are a victim of this, you need to understand a few data: (Source)

Unemployment rates for women of color are at an all-time high in America.

The Median wealth of a white household is always higher than its black counterpart’s.

Black people find it more difficult to approve mortgages and get home loans because of the criminalization of their community.

What Are Some Of The Common Microaggressions I Am Not Noticing?

These are some of the typical microaggressions: They can be casual comments that unintentionally reinforce stereotypes or indirectly discount others. These would be assumptions about someone’s background, appearance, and abilities.

Don’t discount off-the-cuff remarks or actions that appear trivial but aren’t. Microaggressions diminish inclusiveness. Therefore, It is necessary to raise people’s awareness and encourage respectful communication to cultivate a more hospitable climate.

It’s a matter of choosing our words and deeds to make them feel valued and respected people in their day-to-day lives.

How Can I Address Microaggression With A Calm Demeanor?

To deal with microaggressions peacefully, emphasize clear communication. So, pick a private place to say how you felt when the comment or behavior was made, using “I” statements and owning up rather than accusing.

Share your ideas in a low-key, matter-of-fact way, seeking dialogue and exchange to clarify thoughts. Highlight the effect of microaggressions on creating a more conducive atmosphere.

If you can remain calm and go into this with the intention of discussion, then by that alone, we help raise awareness. You create a working environment in which everyone finds their voices heard.

What Does Genuine Ally Ship Look Like In Fight Against Racism?

Being authentically in the war on racism means listening, learning, and fighting. It means being informed on many perspectives, recognizing one’s privilege, and giving voice to the voiceless.

A real friend acts concretely, whether through correcting discriminatory behavior or promoting fair-minded policies. It’s a ceaseless effort to break down the barriers of personal prejudices and create fairness.

Real solidarity is not merely a slogan; it’s about constant struggle against the systemic racism that permeates all parts of our lives and for an equitable society where each one can flourish.

Am I Racist?

We must look back on our deeds and thoughts. If you’ve ever caused hurt to another by offending their race or had biased opinions about members of other races, then you must face up to the past and learn from your mistakes. The first step to change is self-awareness.

Rather than categorizing yourself, look for prejudiced thoughts or behavior and how to combat them. There are many ways to evolve, such as through open conversations, education, and promoting equality.

One can cultivate an inclusive mindset through continuous reflection about oneself and the determination to discard old prejudices. It’s reconciling with our incompleteness, taking responsibility for eliminating racism.

How Can Individuals Recognize and Understand Their Own Biases?

Understanding and recognizing personal racial prejudice begins with self-reflection. Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and reactions in various circumstances. Always be sincere and dispose of your preconceptions.

You must go out and actively seek different points of view to expand your understanding. Discuss the issue of race, listen to others, and learn. Think outside the box-challenge stereotypes and question your assumptions.

Education and empathy are important-learn about the history of others and imagine walking in their shoes. Recognizing biases is an ongoing process. It also requires humility, self-awareness, and determination to move towards a greater sense of inclusivity and equality within the mindset.