As we settle into another millennium, racism still remains once of the most pervasive social evils in the world. Racism remains a major problem and a stumbling block to economic and social development especially in the face of widespread globalization resulting in increased multiculturalism. It however to note that there have been milestones achieved in the fight against racism as it is now not as severe as it was in the 18th and 19th century, some of the races that were regarded as inferior such as the Africans were forced into slavery and forced labor. The scars and rifts left by these very inhumane behavior and attitudes towards the people of a particular race are still very much visible however, and the repercussions are still so much alive (Constantine and Sue, 123). For instance, in some countries such as the United Sates of America, citizens of African American still find it hard to access facilities such as proper healthcare services, education and employment opportunities due to their racial background. This is not only morally and legally wrong, but a huge obstacle to development and a violation of human rights as well (Constantine and Sue, 123). It is therefore undisputable that there is a need to come up with effective ways and strategies aimed at changing the perceptions of the people regarding racism and combat racism.
Although there are many definitions of racism as discussed in class, the universally acceptable definition according to McDougall (3) is a set of beliefs, actions and behaviors that views an individual or a group of people as inferior to another person or group of people due to their physical appearance such as their skin color. Despite the fact that racism has been mostly perpetrated in Europe and United Sates by people of European origin against other various groups such as African Americans and Latinos, racism is also characterized by tensions between various groups. A good example is the longstanding friction and tension between the African-Americans and the Asian-American population in some regions in the United States. Some of the major factors that contribute to the racism include economic inferiority, where an individual or a group of people, view another person due to their better economic performance or better living standards. Another major factor causing racism is disappointment in society, where a particular race perceives another race as lucky or having an upper hand in most matters. Scapegoating is also a major cause of racism, where an individual or a group of people, blame all their misfortunes or bad experiences on another individual or group of people from another race. One unchanging fact however that is regardless of all our differences, all human beings are equal and they deserve to treat each other with respects. The policies and structures that guide the everyday living should also be designed in a way that they ensure equity and equality among all people and reduce racism as well (Constantine and Sue, 126). Additionally, as the world becomes more diverse and mobile, there is a strong need to be prepared and come up with strategies that will minimize the likelihood of hostility emanating from these differences.
It goes without saying that each one of us has been a recipient of racism, whether directly or indirectly. Consequently, the results effects of such behavior ca be seen anywhere and everywhere and they range from violence and cold blood murder, stereotypes, unemployment, under funded schools and health care facilities, poor and inadequate housing, disproportionate number of African-American men on death row or life imprisonment among others. It is also worth noting that some of the areas where racism is common in the society include in schools, local governments, service organizations, neighborhoods and even in the media among others McDougall (3). Therefore, racism is
