Racial discrimination

Racial discrimination is a social phenomenon that involves treating individuals differently based on their race or ethnicity. It is a pervasive issue that affects various aspects of society, including education, employment, housing, and criminal justice.

Definition

Racial discrimination is defined as any distinction, exclusion, restriction, or preference based on race, color, descent, or national or ethnic origin that has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life.

History

Racial discrimination has a long history, with roots in the slavery and colonialism of the past. It has been institutionalized in laws and policies, such as the Jim Crow laws in the United States and the apartheid system in South Africa.

Effects

The effects of racial discrimination can be profound and far-reaching, impacting individuals' mental and physical health, economic prospects, and overall quality of life. It can also lead to social unrest and conflict, as seen in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States and the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.

Legislation

Many countries have enacted laws to combat racial discrimination, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the United States and the Race Relations Act 1976 in the United Kingdom. At the international level, the United Nations has adopted the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

See also

• Racism
• Ethnic discrimination
• Social inequality
• Human rights

References

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