Systemic racism refers to the social structures, policies, and institutions that serve to oppress people of color. Unlike individual acts of racism, which are a result of personal prejudice, systemic racism involves policies, practices, and norms that perpetuate inequality on a systematic level. It impacts society on multiple levels such as education, healthcare, criminal justice, employment, and housing, which creates a compounding impact on marginalized communities.
The US’s legacy of slavery and colonization “runs deep in terms of dehumanization and breaking people down” (Racism, 10). Black and Indigenous communities, specifically, face higher rates of poverty, illness, police violence, and more due to being “uprooted from their land, separated from family members, [and] denied their humanity” (Racism, 11). Furthermore, systematic racism contributes to debilitating outcomes and has adverse psychological effects on people of color.
One of the most immediate and palpable effects of systemic oppression is the heightened levels of stress and anxiety. The constant awareness of being targeted, or hearing about racism and race-based violence, contributes to a persistent state of alertness which can lead to chronic stress. Furthermore, the American Journal of Psychiatry has found that systematic oppression has the capacity to transcend generations. This transmission of trauma affects not only the psychological well-being of individuals but also shapes the collective consciousness of marginalized communities.
In the pursuit of social justice, it is crucial to recognize and address the psychological impact of systematic oppression. By understanding the nuanced ways in which oppression infiltrates the psyches of individuals, we can develop interventions that not only alleviate distress but also work towards dismantling the systems that perpetuate such psychological harm.
Here are a few ways you can get involved:
- Educate yourself: start by educating yourself about the historical roots and manifestations of institutional racism
- Support, Join, or Donate: Organizations that Address Racism:
- NAACP: this civil rights organization focuses on eliminating racial injustice
- Color of Change: an online racial justice organization that works to address issues affecting Back Americans
- ACLU: civil liberties organization that works on a broad range of issues that includes racial injustice
- Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Within your community, advocate for diversity by encouraging equal opportunities, challenging discriminatory practices, and more
- Vote with Equity in Mind: Exercise your right to vote with a focus on candidates and policies that prioritize equity and injustice
- Challenge Microaggressions and Bias
- Support Minority-Owned Businesses
These are just a few of the ways in which individuals can help. By fostering an environment of cultural sensitivity and support, societies can work towards healing the wounds of the past and promoting the mental well-being of present and future generations.
Sources:
https://www.verywellmind.com/the-link-between-systemic-racism-and-mental-health-5076410
Photo Credit: Society of Pediatric Psychology
