Everyday anti-racism

You do not have to encounter a specific racist event to take action against racism.

What is anti-racism?

Anti-racism is active and conscious action against all forms of racism. Anti-racist action aims to reduce prejudice and ethnic discrimination as well as to mitigate the effects of discriminatory practices.

Increasing your own understanding of racism is a key part of anti-racism. It is important to acknowledge the scale of the phenomenon before you can begin to identify and recognise racism and bring about change.

The first step towards eradicating racism is to raise awareness. It is essential to understand the historical and structural dimensions of racism and how these affect the people who encounter racism as well as society as a whole.

Better understanding and awareness come from getting involved on a personal level – without becoming a nuisance to people who belong to minorities.

Understanding your own role

Anti-racism requires active learning, respecting boundaries, taking action and listening. Not everyone experiences racism themselves, but everyone has a role to play in promoting equality. One way is to use your own position to campaign for the equality of people who experience discrimination.

Coming to terms with your personal role in the anti-racist process takes time and patience, and it may involve facing difficult emotions and discomfort. There may be mistakes along the way, but you should see them as opportunities to grow as an anti-racist.