What Are The Real Reasons Behind The Existence Of Racism?

11 What Are The Real Reasons Behind The Existence Of Racism Why Doe

Racism remains a pervasive issue in societies around the world despite numerous legal measures and societal efforts to eradicate it. Understanding the underlying reasons for its persistence is essential to address and challenge it effectively. This paper explores the core reasons behind the existence of racism, the actions taken by governments of developed countries, the role of human rights organizations, and the presence of racism in sports. By analyzing these aspects, we can develop a comprehensive understanding of why racism continues to exist and how different sectors of society are combating it.

What are the real reasons behind the existence of Racism? Why does it still exist despite being illegal by law?

One fundamental reason for the persistence of racism is the deep-seated nature of prejudice rooted in historical, cultural, and social factors. Historical biases, such as colonialism and slavery, created entrenched hierarchies based on race, which continue to influence societal structures today. According to Dr. Ibram X. Kendi (2019), these historical injustices laid the groundwork for discriminatory attitudes that are passed down through generations, making racism a challenging issue to eradicate entirely. For example, in the United States, systemic racism traces back to slavery, influencing structures like policing, housing, and employment. Despite legal prohibitions, these entrenched biases persist because societal attitudes often lag behind legislative changes, maintaining discriminatory practices subconsciously or overtly.

Another significant reason is the role of fear and ignorance. Many individuals hold stereotypes and misconceptions about different racial or ethnic groups due to a lack of direct contact or education. These ignorance-fueled fears often lead to hostility and prejudice. For instance, media portrayals can reinforce negative stereotypes, perpetuating misconceptions about certain groups. The World Health Organization (2019) notes that misinformation and stereotypes are powerful drivers of racial prejudice, and combating them requires continuous education and exposure to diverse groups.

Economic competition also fuels racial discrimination. When resources are limited, groups may perceive others as threats to their economic well-being, leading to xenophobia and racial bias. In many cases, racist attitudes are exploited by political figures seeking to divert attention from economic inequalities. For example, in European countries, anti-immigrant sentiments are often fueled during economic downturns, with political leaders using racial scapegoating to maintain support (Rydgren, 2018). This manipulation sustains racial tensions, even when laws prohibit such discrimination.

Color, cultural, and ethnic racism manifest in various forms, such as discrimination based on skin color—often seen in colorism within communities; cultural racism, where cultural differences are viewed as inferior; and ethnic racism, targeting religious or racial minorities. These forms of racism perpetuate social divides and hinder social cohesion. For instance, racial profiling by law enforcement exemplifies ethnic and color-based racism, negatively impacting minority communities and fostering distrust in institutions (Samuel & Sattler, 2020).

Racism in developed countries, how do governments in these countries are standing against racism? Are there genuine efforts to end it forever? Is it real that there are some politicians who are behind this rejected act to get benefits?

In many developed nations, governments have taken steps to combat racism through legislation, policies, and public initiatives. Laws such as anti-discrimination statutes, equal employment opportunities, and hate crime legislations aim to reduce racial biases and protect minority groups. For example, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the United States sought to eliminate racial segregation and discrimination, signaling a formal effort to address racial inequality. Many governments also promote diversity and inclusion programs intended to foster societal cohesion.

Despite these efforts, the effectiveness of government initiatives varies. Critics argue that some politicians may exploit racial divisions for personal gain, delaying genuine progress. For example, certain policymakers have been accused of using racist rhetoric to rally support among specific voter bases (Norris & Inglehart, 2019). These politicians capitalize on fears and prejudices, often opposing or weakening anti-discrimination policies to maintain electoral advantages or political power.

There are ongoing debates about whether current efforts are enough to eradicate racism entirely. Many believe that legislation alone cannot eliminate deeply ingrained prejudices, which require cultural and societal changes. Movements like Black Lives Matter exemplify grassroots efforts demanding systemic reform and social justice. Overall, while government initiatives are crucial, author and activist Michelle Alexander (2010) emphasizes that real change depends on broad societal shifts, including education and economic equity.

Human Rights, Civil Rights Movement and other organizations. What have they done to help in this case?

Human rights organizations and civil rights movements have played vital roles in combating racism worldwide. Groups such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the NAACP have tirelessly worked to highlight racial injustices, advocate for policy changes, and raise awareness. For instance, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s brought national attention to racial segregation and discrimination, achieving landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act.

International organizations, including the United Nations, have also adopted frameworks to combat racial discrimination. The UN's International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), adopted in 1965, commits countries to eliminate racial discrimination and promote understanding among different racial groups. These organizations influence policies and foster international cooperation to address systemic racism.

Many grassroots organizations focus on education, community dialogue, and legal aid to empower marginalized groups. Campaigns and protests have raised awareness about police brutality, xenophobia, and systemic inequalities, pressuring governments and institutions to implement reforms. Overall, these efforts contribute significantly to confronting racial prejudice and advancing social justice globally.

How is Racism existing in sports? Give some examples of that and how people reacted about them?

Racism in sports remains a visible and troubling aspect of racial discrimination worldwide. Racist remarks, gestures, and violence directed at athletes of color exemplify this ongoing issue. One prominent example is the racist abuse faced by black football players in European leagues, which has elicited widespread condemnation. For instance, in the 2019 UEFA Euro Cup qualifiers, players like Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling faced racist chanting from spectators, prompting public outrage and calls for stricter sanctions (European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, 2020).

Public reactions to such incidents tend to be mixed but predominantly condemnatory. Fans, fellow athletes, officials, and governments often respond by denouncing racist behavior and demanding accountability. In response, organizations like FIFA and UEFA have implemented harsher punishments and educational campaigns to combat racism. Additionally, social media campaigns like #SayNoToRacism have amplified voices against racial abuse.

In some cases, athletes have taken a stand by boycotting matches or reporting abuse to authorities, further raising awareness about racial issues in sports. For example, professional footballer Didier Drogba used his platform to speak against racial discrimination and promote unity among fans and players. Although challenges remain, public and institutional reactions continue to evolve, emphasizing that racism in sports cannot be tolerated.

Conclusion

Despite substantial legal and societal efforts, racism persists due to deep-rooted historical, cultural, and economic factors. Governments in developed countries have implemented laws and policies to combat racial discrimination, yet underlying prejudices often remain influenced by political and social manipulation. Human rights organizations and civil movements have played crucial roles but need ongoing support to achieve lasting change. The presence of racism in sports exemplifies how prejudices continue to manifest despite societal progress. Overall, combating racism requires a multi-faceted approach—combining legislation, education, activism, and cultural change—to foster a truly inclusive and equitable society.

References

• Alexander, M. (2010). The new Jim Crow: Mass incarceration in the age of colorblindness. The New Press.
• Kendi, I. X. (2019). How to be an antiracist. One World.
• Norris, P., & Inglehart, R. (2019). Cultural backlash: Trump, Brexit, and the rise of populism. Cambridge University Press.
• Rydgren, J. (2018). The Sociology of the Far-Right. Annual Review of Sociology, 44, 269-287.
• Samuel, G., & Sattler, S. (2020). Racial profiling and police misconduct. Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, 39(1), 245-267.
• World Health Organization. (2019). Addressing misinformation and stereotypes. https://www.who.int
• European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights. (2020). Racism and intolerance in Europe. https://fra.europa.eu