In our world, racism plays a large impact on our society. Racism is the belief that humans can be divided into a hierarchy on the basis of their race. This belief has has led to prejudice and discrimination that has manifested in not only individuals “but also through societies and institutions”(J. S. Frideres, 2006). Racism can present itself through slang, racist jokes, name-calling, exclusion, and much more. This discrimination not only includes black people but Asians, Latin Americans, Middle Easterners, and more.
Racism is not just discrimination, it is a bias against people, simply based on the color of the skin or the ethnic group they belong to. This issue has been a large part of the news from the Black Lives Matter movement to raising awareness about racism. But, racism has big impacts on youth. Factually, Black students have much worse education outcomes, are much more likely to dropout from high school, and are four times more likely to be expelled from a Toronto high school than White students. It is evident that this issue is serious. But, what can youth do to help?
1. Educate Yourself
It is hard to take action on an issue if you do not understand the severity and the implications of what is going on in the world. The biggest reason that racism has persisted over the years is the lack of education. People who have been exposed to racist ideas may not enough be aware that they are a large issue in today’s world. The greatest course of action an individual can take is to understand the history of the problem. This not only allows you to form your own opinion, but to understand your own worldview.
To do this, find a book at the library, such as Me and White Supremacy: A 28-Day Challenge to Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor, or How to be an Antiracist, which is written by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Some podcasts you can listen to include Code Switch, About Race, or 1619. An excellent film to watch is The Hate U Give, which is based off of Angie Thomas’ novel. Or, learn about people who have influenced the issue of racism.
2. Listen and Understand
After gaining an understanding of racism and its impacts, it is important to listen and understand others’ perspectives. This is important as an individuals worldview is greatly affected by not only their own but also others’ experiences. The best way to firsthand understand racism is by talking to someone who has dealt with racism in their life. Talk to a trusted adult, or even your friends.
3. Speak Up
The biggest issue that comes with racism is the fear to speak up. Racist jokes and name-calling are much too common than they should be, simply because youth may not be equipped to speak up. But, it is crucial to not be a bystander to such acts, as silence only fuels the issue. If you see or hear someone saying something racist, call them out for it and tell them that what they are saying is out of line in a respectful manner. The way that you act impacts everyone around you. The most important part, is taking it seriously. When children are the targets of such issues, it is important for them to have a trusted adult to talk to. Speaking up not only empowers an individual, but also makes harmful people understand the consequences of their actions.
4. Get Others Involved
After you understand racism, it is important to involve other people in such a conversation. The greatest way to create change is to educate others’ on the matter. Talk to siblings, teachers, other youth about this issue and get them involved in taking action. Additionally, you can raise awareness in your community and ensure that the experiences of people who face racism are told. Though this may difficult, if you feel safe, try to tell your story of battling racism to inspire others.
Additionally, you can join Anti-Racism Organizations and help to create a change in your world. If you are below the age of 18, ensure that you talk to a trusted guardian before you get involved. Voices for Racial Justice (VRJ), Resource Generation, Color of Change, Black Lives Matter, Dream Corps, and Communities United Against Police Brutality are all excellent organizations that help fight racism.
Racism is a tough issue, but, through education and activism, anyone can make a difference.
