The term systemic racism refers to the structural and institutional discrimination of certain groups based on race. This kind of discrimination can be seen in the disparities in education, employment, housing, and health care that exist between racial groups.
Systemic racism is perpetuated by individual attitudes and behaviors as well as institutional policies and practices. These policies may include overt discrimination or practices that have a disproportionately negative impact on certain groups.
Systemic racism results in the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities for people of color, as well as other marginalized groups like LGBT people or immigrants. This creates barriers to social and economic mobility for those who experience systemic racism, which can lead to higher rates of poverty among affected groups.
Systemic racism has a negative impact on the physical and mental health of those who experience it—they are more likely to develop stress-related illnesses like heart disease or depression than those who do not experience systemic racism.
Systemic racism contributes to the socioeconomic disparities that exist between racial groups—this means it makes it harder for low-income people of color to get ahead financially because they’re dealing with both poverty AND systemic racism!
