Question

Describe the difference between individual and institutional racism. Provide one clear example of each type of racism. Lastly, present a plan of action that could be used to minimize each type of racism

Answer 1

Individual racism refers to the discriminatory beliefs attitudes, and actions of individuals that support or perpetuate racism. For instance, a white landlord refusing to rent his house to a black woman illustrates individual racism. On the hand, institutional racism is defined as racism perpetrated by social entities such as schools, the courts, or the military. Unlike the racism perpetrated by individuals, institutional racism has the power to impact large populations of people. An example of institutional racism is the slavery of blacks in the United States.

An immediate action that one can take to reduce individual racism is to identify and speak up against any acts of racism. If one hear someone use racial slurs, make a racial joke, or mistreat people because of their race, one should step in say something to them. In case of institutional racism, one should participate in anti-racsim campaigns and programs in their educational institution itself to highlight race-related issues and start a dialogue between stakeholders and administrators.