There is extensive prejudice and discrimination within the video and it eludes to centuries of white supremacy and negative perspectives of the development of other races in general society on a global basis. The video provides information and objective information on instances of discrimination where other races such as Hispanics and black populations have been either out-casted, looked down upon or excluded from particular events or general benefits within society. In particular, racism within the 20th century is analyzed and scrutinized for its negative effects on the development of society and specific norms that require equality and awareness for the welfare and requirements of all populations irrespective of their backgrounds and beliefs (AHRC, 2015). The video also focuses on the beliefs of religions that have been extensively scrutinized as well as independent faith and the rising trend of riots and horrific events such as terrorism, as a result of racism and discrimination.
I am personally, not very surprised by what I saw as it has become second nature in society and I observe this behavior on a daily basis. For years, I have read and acknowledged the fact that racism has become a large part of our society and also an unstoppable force that can not be adequately dealt with. There are also a number reasons why people are racist and discriminate against one another. The first reason is respective superiority complexes that develop as a result of our goals to thrive and be better than others (AHRC, 2015). In a sense, the development of other races may be seen to be a threat to the livelihood of pre-existing populations and norms. Furthermore, the majority of populations react negatively to change and do not inspire the development and dominance of other races. In such areas as health and employment, the addition of other races is perceived as adding extra pressure and exhausting society of its respective resources. I have also seen a number of examples of this in my life including unfair working conditions for different races and promotional opportunities being provided to particular people because of their race and not their ability or respective strengths.
Within the topic of “Erasure of Race”, one key point that enhanced my understanding of race relations is the fact that erasing race becomes a hindrance to the development and overall progress of society. Without other races, there is a lack of diversity. Politics and culture is also described as a necessity within society and also a large influence on society’s judgment of race. I found these two points to be highly influential as they alert me towards the essence and overall significance of race within society. White denial is also a detrimental influence on discrimination and as the lecture evaluates, can be determined as a main cause of discrimination and racism. I believe that white denial results in racism as they observe others to be succeeding and somewhat taking their place in society (AHRC, 2015).
The topic of unburdened by race was also significant and focuses on the fact that race is not a burden but an advantage and can provide respective streams of employment with varying degrees of talent. I observe this on a constant basis within my own workplace. The creation of whiteness is an important concept and is used by subsequent white populations to define their existence and overall dominance within society. This can also be linked to the topic of Privilege and Pathology and most importantly, the idea that white populations believe that they are privledged and have a right to be racist and judge other races overall. The ultimate result of racism and discrimination in society is guilt and responsibility and ultimately, the requirement for white populations to admit that racism does not advantage society but rather burdens it with unlikeable and highly detrimental concepts (AHRC, 2015).
Actions that can be taken to challenge white privilege firstly on a personal level, include accepting other races and not complying with the actions of those that are racist or discriminatory. On a community and/or national level, the development of awareness programs for other races and rules or regulations that enforce fair working environments can also be developed and implemented effectively.