Introduction
Global interactions have led to a deeper understanding of racism and its impacts in society. While researchers and scholars define, problematize, explore, explain and suggest varying solutions for racism, its importance for social cohesion remains a universal acknowledgement. Over the years, research has been done on systemic racism and its associated factors such as inequality and discrimination at various levels (Terrell et al., 2018). In summary, different viewpoints have been advanced pointing towards the deep-rooted causes of racism at community, national, and global levels.
Systemic and Structural Racism and Associated Factors
Although people tend to think of racism as open discrimination against people of different racial backgrounds, systemic and structural racism is so engraved in daily routines that it is sometimes considered natural and healthy. However, Thomas (2010) argues that diversity and inclusion go beyond gender equality to reflect individuals’ potential. Maltreatment of Aboriginals, residential segregation, and unhealthy work environments exemplify deeply entrenched racial prejudice and discrimination.
Racism Conceptualization
The conceptualization of racism follows diverse paths with researchers developing several concepts that explain why, how, and when racism occurs from community to global levels. On the larger scale, racial prejudice reflects a lack of intersectional leadership whereby individuals fail to express their abilities even in educational institutions (Theoharis & Scanlan, 2020). In addition, it is evident that racism is a form of political inequality aggravated by unhealthy policy formulation and implementation at all levels.
Theories Advanced to Explain Racism
Multiple theories have been advanced to explain and illustrate the root causes and impacts of racism in society. Carrington and Kimber (2020) cite the ethical leadership theory, highlighting that disregard for human rights is the main cause of racial prejudice and discrimination. In addition, Trimmer et al. (2019) argue that unfair practices towards individuals can be explained by the critical indigenous theory. In summary, social imbalances and poor policy development create an unfavorable climate leading to racism.
Problematization of Racism
Despite varying descriptions, scholars agree that racism leads to social, economic, and political imbalances that have severe consequences to individuals and the nation. Ethnic discrimination hampers diversity and inclusion since some individuals are blocked from accessing vital resources based on their color and origins (Trimmer et al., 2019). Diplomatic relationships are also severed while national cohesion and integration are curtailed as economic growth and development declines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, racism is among the social evils that have been so engraved in society to the extent of being considered a healthy and natural existence. While some view it as a social construct, others feel that it is entirely a political injustice. The ethical leadership and self-interest theories explain the origin and context of racism in society. Regardless of its multiple dimensions, racism is extremely widespread and should be well-researched and eliminated to pave the way for social and environmental equality.
References
Appiah, K. A. (2019). The lies that bind: Rethinking identity. Liveright Publishing Corporation.
Carrington, S., & Kimber, M. (2020). Ethical leadership for inclusive schools. Australian Educational Leader, 42(2), 10–14. Web.
Cramer, K. (2020). Understanding the Role of Racism in Contemporary US Public Opinion. Web.
Terrell, R. D., Terrell, E. K., Lindsey, R. B., & Lindsey, D. B. (2018). Culturally proficient leadership: The personal journey begins within (2nd ed.). SAGE publications.
Theoharis, G., & Scanlan, M. (Eds.). (2020). Leadership for increasingly diverse schools (2nd ed.). Taylor & Francis Group.
Thomas, R. (2010). World class diversity management: A strategic approach. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
Trimmer, K., Dixon, R., & Guenther, J. (2019). School leadership and Aboriginal student outcomes: systematic review. Asia-Pacific Journal Of Teacher Education, 49(1), 20-36. Web.