Racism can wreak havoc on communities affected by it, eroding people’s trust and leading to detrimental effects such as physical illness, psychological trauma, and a sense of belonging.
KFF’s most recent national survey revealed that more than seven in ten Black adults believe our health care system treats people unfairly based on race or ethnic background either often or somewhat often. Younger Black adults were more likely than older ones to report experiencing discrimination based on their race or ethnicity.
1. Inequality
The United States has a longstanding legacy of racial injustices that affect people of all races, but are especially detrimental to black communities.
Racial inequality persists due to a complex web of social processes. They work together to reproduce racial distinction in the marketplace and public sphere, inhibiting development of human capacities that support social stability and well-being such as creativity or leadership.
To truly comprehend racial inequality, one must pay close attention to these interactions. These may include a discriminatory marketplace or administrative state that denies equal reward for black talent; additionally, social processes of perception and valuation such as “perceived and valued” traits which limit some black people’s access to networks where developmental resources can be most easily appropriated.
In the United States, two-thirds of the public believe black people are treated less fairly than whites when dealing with law enforcement and criminal justice systems; more than half believe this to be true when hiring and pay practices, applying for loans or mortgages, shopping at stores or restaurants, or seeking medical treatment.
Though progress has been made on many issues, we are still far from creating a society that works for everyone. Inequality denies us the opportunity to live lives that are healthy and full, making it harder to eradicate poverty and create an inclusive world.
2. Crime
The United States has a long and well-documented history of racism. People of color have often been treated as inferior individuals with low status, and many have faced discrimination from law enforcement officers.
Although the United States has taken constitutional and legal steps to guarantee that members of racial and ethnic minorities enjoy the same rights as others, some still believe race plays an important role when making decisions about who should receive certain privileges in life. This perception stems from a tendency to assign lower status to groups based on physical appearances such as dark skin or certain eye colors.
Research reveals that members of racial and ethnic minority groups are more likely to be arrested for crimes than other people, with potentially harsher sentences attached. This disparity has caused a loss of trust within communities affected by racism, hindering community policing efforts as well as police power utilization.
Research suggests that race plays an important role in motivating individuals to commit crimes, along with economic or social disadvantages and changes to body chemistry. Although other factors can also contribute to crime-commitment decisions, research indicates race plays a major role.
Recent survey results reveal that black adults are significantly more likely than white adults to believe the way our criminal justice system treats people of color is an issue in America. A majority (88%) say they have seen evidence of discrimination within this system, and only 18% believe their local police treat racial and ethnic minorities fairly most or almost always.
3. Health
Racial injustice and racism in the United States have serious consequences for health outcomes. They create obstacles to economic opportunity and uneven access to quality healthcare, placing African Americans at greater risk of poor health outcomes.
In addition to the obvious discrimination many face, racism is deeply-seated in our society’s systems and structures. Policies and laws which favor Whites or their interests tend to keep Blacks and other minorities from accessing necessary social, political, economic resources.
Housing, employment opportunities and access to education, healthcare and financial services are just some of the issues addressed. Furthermore, criminal justice plays a significant role in this system.
Structural racism is the legacy of decades of discrimination in both the United States and beyond, shaping our institutions, economy and culture in profound ways.
It has had a profound effect on communities where people live, learn, work and worship; creating inequities in access to social and economic benefits that promote good health. It is one of the major causes of racial/ethnic disparities when it comes to medical care, mental health services, social support networks and nutrition.
Research demonstrates that systemic racism causes health harm through a complex web of causal pathways, which may not be visible to those affected, but which accumulate over time and exert cumulative damage.
To dismantle this system, actions must involve mutually reinforcing efforts across multiple sectors and places. They must include addressing the root causes of inequality; altering systems that privilege Whites and their interests; expanding opportunities for people of color to participate in decision-making processes; crafting inclusive policies that address racism; and creating healthy communities.
Studies have revealed that African Americans lack trust in the health care system and receive less care than whites do. Furthermore, they are less likely to get preventive screenings and have a shorter life expectancy compared to their white counterparts.
4. Education
Education is a fundamental human right that has profound impacts on both children and adults alike. Governments, communities, and schools all play an essential role in providing young people with an excellent education so they can grow into productive members of society.
Systemic racism in education can have devastating consequences on racial and cultural identities. Therefore, allies must stand with Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) communities in the fight against structural racism.
As allies in the fight against structural racism, allies should demand equitable school funding and enhanced educational opportunities for BIPOC students. Schools that prioritize racial equity tend to promote an inclusive culture in classrooms and on campuses.
When schools are connected to their community, it can create protective factors that promote student resilience. These include social belonging, values affirmation and growth mindset interventions which may reduce disciplinary events and make racially marginalized students feel safe on campus.
A 2019 study of middle-school students suggests identity safety interventions can foster trust between racially marginalized students and school staff, potentially preventing them from committing crimes or being arrested. The researchers observed fewer disciplinary actions as a result, as well as an increase in fairness when administering those actions.
A recent national survey indicates Americans are divided on whether schools in America must teach about slavery and racism. Some believe teachers should have more control over teaching such sensitive topics, while others think parents should make the ultimate decision regarding what their children learn.
5. Employment
If you are affected by racism, it’s essential to know that there are various employment options available. There are jobs with good pay and advancement prospects; as well as lower-paid positions offering more flexibility.
For some people, employment can be an opportunity to build wealth and security. On the other hand, for others it’s a daily battle just to make ends meet.
One of the greatest obstacles to economic security for many people is racism. This can manifest in discrimination in the workplace, making it challenging for workers to receive an equal opportunity at employment.
Furthermore, those affected by racism may be unable to access the benefits that are available to all. This includes healthcare, retirement plans and social security payments.
Many individuals may experience feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress as a result. This can also lead to feelings of hopelessness and anger.
Racial injustice can be addressed in a number of ways, such as talking with others and seeking counseling. If these options don’t suffice, legal measures exist to safeguard yourself and your rights.
Research has increasingly demonstrated the negative health outcomes experienced by those affected by racism. These can include an increased risk of death, poorer overall health, and lower self-esteem.
People affected by racism often confront additional difficulties that could impact their employment prospects, such as low wages and insecure jobs. This could result in unemployment or lead to stress and anxiety.
