Lift-the-flap Questions and Answers about Racism (Questions & Answers)

Product Information

Internalised racism is when we hold negative views about ourselves because of our race. Internalised colourism is when these views relate to our skin shade. Sometimes we feel uncomfortable talking about things we don’t know much about. If a child asks you a question which you don’t know the answer to, it’s okay to suggest that you learn together. The following resources can also be a great way to improve your understanding of race and racism: Health problems can then further affect work and income. Work, study, money, housing and physical health are all connected to our mental health. This creates a vicious circle of disadvantage. Systemic racism and the pandemic

But often racist comments or actions are more subtle, and may not be intended to cause harm. This is often called covert racism or microaggressions. Do they take your experiences of racism seriously? For example, by being respectful and not downplaying or denying them. This means it’s illegal to discriminate against someone, or treat them differently, because of their race.Tell your therapist about any problems you're having with them. They might be keen to reflect, learn and do better.

Sometimes it's very obvious, with a clear intention to harm or offend. This is often called overt racism. It can include: Institutional racism is when an organisation treats us poorly or unfairly because of our race. This can be intentional or unintentional. Many organisations don't realise how their policies and practices disadvantage people.

At system level we can see the wider impact of the inequalities and power imbalances, for example those set up by colonialism. We see how these are maintained now in policy, law, economics, culture and wider society. And how this creates White privilege. How systemic racism can affect individuals

Do they recognise how your experiences of racism may intersect with other parts of your identity? For example your gender, religion or sexuality. Feel constant, exhausting and disempowering. For example, we may feel like we have to play different roles in different spaces to stay safe. This is sometimes called code-switching. Do you feel able to be honest about your experiences of racism with them? For example, do they help you feel at ease? Contribute to the pressure we feel to change or downplay parts of ourselves. This can include our hair, clothing, accent or even our skin. When society compels people in a minority to act like people in the majority, it's called assimilation. It can feel like we must 'fit in', to protect ourselves from racism.

Sign up for updates

This type of racism is subtle and can make it seem like it’s okay to dismiss racial prejudice or discrimination with comments like, ’it’s in your head’, or telling someone they’re ‘playing the race card’.