Important Definitions

RACE PREJUDICE + the POWER of systems and institutions = RACISM (The misuse of power by systems and institutions)

The term “racism” specifically to refers to individual, cultural, institutional and systemic ways by which differential consequences are created for groups historically or currently defined as white being advantaged, and groups historically or currently defined as non-white (African, Asian, Hispanic, Native American, etc.) as disadvantaged.

- Community Anti-Racism Education Initiative (C.A.R.E.)

Anti-racism is the active process of identifying and eliminating racism by changing systems, organizational structures, policies and practices and attitudes, so that power is redistributed and shared equitably. It is the practice of identifying, challenging, and changing the values, structures and behaviors that perpetuate systemic racism.

- Community Anti-Racist Education Initiative (C.A.R.E.)

Non-Racist vs. Anti-Racist

Most of us, says Marlon James, are non-racist. While that leaves us with a clear conscience, he argues, it does nothing to help fight injustice in the world. In fact, we can pull off being non-racist by being asleep in bed while black men are killed by police. We need to stop being non-racist, and start being anti-racist.

- The Guardian, " Are you racist? 'No' isn't a good enough answer"

Structural Racism

“Race is a little bit like gravity,” john powell says: experienced by all, understood by the few. He is an esteemed legal scholar and thinker who counsels all kinds of people and projects on the front lines of our present racial anguish and longings. Race is relational, he reminds us. It’s as much about whiteness as about color. And it largely plays out, as we’re learning through new science, in our unconscious minds.

- On Being with Krista Tippett

Toolkits & Resources

Organizations