Racism in America: Shedding Light on a Harsh Reality 

An Unfinished Struggle for Equality 

Racism has been an enduring and pervasive issue in American history, casting its shadow over the nation since its beginning. Despite progress in civil rights and significant societal advancements, racism continues to manifest in various forms—systemic, institutional, and interpersonal. Understanding the depth of this issue is crucial. Grasping its breadth is essential to addressing it. We must strive for a society rooted in equality and justice. 

The Historical Roots of Racism in America 

The story of racism in America begins with the arrival of European settlers. They established a colonial economy reliant on the exploitation of Indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans. This legacy of forced labor and systemic oppression laid the foundation for centuries of racial inequality. 

The institution of slavery, legalized and perpetuated for over two centuries, dehumanized millions of African Americans. The Civil War and the eventual abolition of slavery in 1865 marked a turning point. Yet, true freedom and equality were far from realized. The post-Reconstruction era gave rise to Jim Crow laws, enforcing racial segregation and perpetuating the disenfranchisement of Black Americans. 

Racism in Contemporary America 

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s achieved major milestones. These included the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Nevertheless, the struggle against racism remains ongoing. Today, racial inequality persists in many spheres of life—education, housing, employment, and the criminal justice system. 

Systemic Racism 

Systemic racism refers to the policies and practices within institutions that disadvantage certain racial groups. In the criminal justice system, for example, Black Americans are disproportionately incarcerated. They face harsher sentences than their white counterparts for similar offenses. The educational system also reflects racial disparities, with predominantly Black and Latinx schools often receiving less funding and fewer resources. 

Economic Disparities 

The racial wealth gap is another stark indicator of inequality. According to recent studies, the median wealth of White families is nearly eight times that of Black families. This disparity originates from historical injustices. These include redlining, discriminatory lending practices, and unequal access to education and job opportunities. The lack of generational wealth continues to perpetuate cycles of poverty among communities of color. 

Healthcare Inequities 

Racism also manifests in public health outcomes. Communities of color experience higher rates of chronic illnesses, lower life expectancy, and limited access to quality healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed these disparities. Black, Indigenous, and Latinx Americans faced higher infection and mortality rates. These were due to systemic inequities. 

The Social and Cultural Impact of Racism 

Beyond systemic issues, racism also infiltrates social interactions and cultural narratives. Microaggressions, implicit biases, and overt acts of discrimination create a hostile environment for marginalized groups. The media often perpetuates harmful stereotypes, influencing public perceptions and reinforcing cycles of prejudice. 

The Psychological Toll 

Racism affects mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression among those who endure it. Constant exposure to discrimination and societal inequities can result in trauma, particularly for young people growing up in marginalized communities. 

Resilience and Resistance 

Despite these challenges, communities of color have consistently displayed resilience and resistance. Individuals and organizations have worked tirelessly to combat racism. They have advocated for change from the Harlem Renaissance to the Black Lives Matter movement. Their efforts have brought national attention to issues of police brutality, voter suppression, and other injustices. 

What Can Be Done? 

Addressing racism requires a multi-faceted approach involving individuals, communities, and institutions. Awareness and education are the first steps toward change. When people understand the history of racism, they become better equipped to challenge it. This skill applies in their personal lives and extends beyond. 

Policy Reforms 

Legislative action is essential to dismantling systemic racism. This involves reforming the criminal justice system. It also means investing in education and healthcare for marginalized communities. Additionally, enforcing anti-discrimination laws in housing and employment is crucial. 

Community Engagement 

Grassroots movements and community organizations play a crucial role in fostering dialogue and advocating for equity. Supporting local initiatives that empower marginalized groups can create meaningful change at the neighborhood level. 

Personal Accountability 

On an individual level, confronting one’s own biases and prejudices is vital. This involves listening to diverse perspectives, amplifying marginalized voices, and actively working to create inclusive spaces. 

Conclusion 

Racism in America is a harsh reality, but it is not an immutable one. The path toward equality is neither simple nor swift, but it is necessary. The nation can move closer to fulfilling its foundational promise of liberty and justice for all. This happens by acknowledging the depths of racial inequality. It also requires committing to sustained efforts for change. 

The fight against racism is not just the work of the marginalized—it is a call to action for everyone. Only through collective effort, empathy, and accountability can America hope to overcome the divisions of its past and build a future defined by unity and

Today’s racial and political challenges are significant. The current Trump administration policies exacerbate these issues. Confronting racism in America is more urgent than ever. Recent policies and rhetoric have often amplified divisions. They brought issues of inequality and injustice to the forefront of national conversation. This reality underscores the importance of collective action—standing together to demand fairness, protect civil rights, and foster understanding across communities. As the nation grapples with these challenges, it becomes clear that dismantling systemic racism is essential for the marginalized. It is also crucial for the health and future of democracy itself. By engaging with empathy, Americans can create change. We need to hold ourselves and our leaders accountable. We must refuse to accept injustice as inevitable. In doing so, Americans can move toward a society where unity is more than a slogan. Unity becomes a lived, shared truth. 

Minister A Francine Green

December 2025