Q&A for How to Deal With Racism

Consider finding a new crush, as this person does not seem to treat you with the respect you deserve. Remember, someone's opinion or comment doesn't define your worth or identity. You are not what they called you. Celebrate the beauty and achievements of people with diverse skin tones. There are many kind and respectful people out there, and you deserve someone who appreciates you for who you are.

Remind your friend that using slurs is harmful to others. Offer to support them in seeking therapy or counseling, as the past trauma seems to still affect them. Emphasize that while it's okay to be hurt, it's not acceptable to use that pain to harm others.

This is a common issue. If you believe they are unintentionally excluding you because they are uncertain about how to engage, consider discussing your feelings with your husband. He can help communicate to his family that their actions make you feel left out and suggest ways they can include you more. If you feel their behavior is deliberate, you and your husband should decide on a strategy that suits you both, whether it's addressing the issue directly, spending less time with them, or distancing yourselves completely.

Keep a log of incidents as they occur. If you feel the environment is too abusive or the teacher's bias is affecting grades, speak to the department head (if it is a large school) or the principal (at a smaller school without departments). If you have other students in the class who can verify the teacher's behavior, this will help your case.

Some people are racist because they were raised that way by their parents and society. Other people are racist because it is easier than confronting their real problems. For example, unemployment is caused by complex problems like changes in the economy and shifts in technology. This is very stressful because there is no easy solution, and nobody to be angry at. Blaming unemployment on a certain race "stealing" all the jobs is easier because then there is someone to be angry with and there seems to be a simple solution to the problem.

I suggest going to the school board, as this could be problematic for your grade.

Demonstrate your true character through your actions. If someone questions you directly about being racist, you can respond, "I don't believe I am, but if you notice anything offensive, please let me know so I can learn." As others get to know you better, they will understand your true nature.

Yes, anyone can be racist. While some academics define racism as a power dynamic where the dominant group discriminates against minorities, the more common definition is prejudice or discrimination based on race, where someone believes their race is superior. Racism can be found in individuals from any racial or ethnic background.

First, let the person know that their comments are hurtful and not funny. If the behavior continues despite your request to stop, report the issue to a teacher or authority figure at your school, as they are best equipped to handle such situations.

If you Google the public transportation for your city or town, you should be able to find a contact number for either a customer care line or a complaints line. Write down a few instances of what you have seen with dates/times/stops if you can, and give these examples when you call. If things do not improve, you may need to escalate by speaking to the mayor or other local government, since this is a public transportation system.

If your gym teacher won’t address the situation, you should report it to your principal or another authority figure at your school. Such behavior is unacceptable in any school, and it’s important to seek help from someone who can take action.

Talk with them about at what point they should ask an adult to intervene and who they can trust for intervention. Help them come up with coping mechanisms to deal with the emotional fallout from racism and bullying. For example, have them make a list of things they like about themselves that they can read whenever they need to. You can also roleplay with them so they can practice standing up for themselves. Children often feel better if they have stood up for themselves, but have trouble knowing what to say in the moment. Also make sure they know they can always talk to you about what happened, that other people's behavior is not their fault, and they should not feel ashamed or embarrassed.

Let them know why it is wrong and redirect them to a better way of acting nice to people of different races, religions and origins.

Gently tell them that they themselves are being a bit racist, as they are assuming an entire race cannot be discriminated against. Inform them that you're just as hurt as a non-white person over being a victim of racism, and ask that they not belittle your feelings.

If white children are being excluded from these teams and clubs at your school, you should bring your concerns to the principle or the superintendent. It would be a good idea to have some experiences from white students who attempted to try out for these teams or join the club and were told they were not welcome written down. This will strengthen your case and make it easier to identify where the problem is coming from.

Do not confront them, you are outnumbered and it's too dangerous. You need to get to a public place with witnesses. On the way there call 911 and stay on the line. Hopefully the crowd of witnesses will deter them and the 911 agent can help you stay calm and send help.

Calmly ignore them and walk away. It is not worth you getting yourself in trouble.

Ignore them, if possible. However, if they take their racism to another level (e.g. violent threats), call the police.

This will probably be a long process, so the first step is to not get frustrated with yourself. Remember that you have the right to be upset, and you are learning to let go for your own good, not because you shouldn't be hurt by racism. Make a list of things that you enjoy doing that give you a sense of accomplishment when you finish them. When you have been subjected to racism, start with this list and do one of these things. Exercise is one way to clear out bad emotions more quickly as well, as is ranting to a friend.

That definitely sounds like racism. Racism is discrimination against a member of a minority group because of their race.

While one may have reasonable assumptions about people of a certain background, racism makes one's creed or heritage their main feature, and thus assumes that all traits revolve around it. Racism makes cooperation difficult, if not worse.

It is not tolerated, but is far less noticeable. Think of prostate cancer: it is just as dangerous and common as breast cancer, but gets less attention. Raise the problem with your administration, human resources or those in charge.

It most likely has to do with your perspective. If you're using cable news (CNN, FOX, etc.) as your main news source, then it would make sense that this is what you'd see, since controversy, no matter how minimal, gets viewers. Try to find more credible news sources instead.

Yes. Assuming you are from a certain country just because of your race is a type of racism. Assume ignorance before ill-intent. You could educate them about the country you are from to help give them a better idea of your nationality. If this continues and it bothers you, speak to a trusted adult.

That wouldn't necessarily be considered racist unless he made a racist comment or told you to stay away from him solely because of your race.

Report this to authorities (principal, teachers). They will then watch and listen for this behavior and deal with it when it occurs.