Discrimination and racism are terms often used interchangeably, but they refer to different concepts.
Discrimination is a broader term that encompasses any unfair treatment of individuals based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, or disability. It occurs when a person or group is treated unequally, leading to disadvantages in various areas such as employment, education, and access to services. For example, if a qualified candidate is passed over for a job due to their gender, that is discrimination.
On the other hand, racism specifically pertains to prejudice and discriminatory practices based on a person’s race or ethnic background. It involves beliefs or behaviors that imply one race is superior or inferior to another. Racism can manifest in many forms, such as hate speech, systemic inequality, and social exclusion. For instance, if individuals are bullied or harassed solely because of their race, that represents racism.
In summary, while all racism is a form of discrimination, not all discrimination is racism. Understanding this distinction is crucial in addressing both issues effectively.