Racism Isn’t History. It’s Here. Here’s What We Can Do

Irrespective of where it comes from, racism is racism. Ignorance is no excuse. Insecurity is not justification. Racism in all its forms deserves nothing less than uncompromising condemnation.

So, when you hear “racism,” what pops into your mind? For most, it means believing one race—based on physical traits or heritage—is somehow better than another. But what often gets overlooked is how racism has brutally shaped history: the erasure of entire races, the division of nations, and the horrific enslavement of peoples. While laws today scream "we are created equal" from every corner, racism isn’t just a bad chapter in history books—it’s alive and kicking, because the root causes—fear, ignorance, and division—still exist.

Honestly, I don’t get how something as permanent as race could ever make someone feel superior. Like—how? Growing up, I was taught something simple but powerful: shade doesn’t make you. Your personality does.

Race itself? It's a social idea, not biology. Racism, then, is just plain ugly because it tries to split us up by skin tone or origin. What’s scary? It often happens when people just carry on with their day, thinking it’s fine to treat others badly.

“Why is racism still a thing? Didn’t we ‘move past it’ like, in 2016?”—Ananya, 15

That question hits hard because there is zero biological basis for racism. No race is better or worse—we all belong to the same human family.

But why do racist attitudes still take root? Simple: people tend to mirror their surroundings, stick to their own “kind,” and jump to judgments. When life hits hard, blaming “the other” feels like an easy out. You hear this all the time “, They’re taking our jobs,” or “They’re just getting handouts.” Mostly, that’s just fear, not facts.

Recent Gallup data from 2025 showed a staggering 64% of Americans agree racism against Black people is widespread. Black adults themselves? A huge 83% say it’s still a big problem, especially when dealing with things like police encounters, healthcare, or job opportunities. Yet, fewer Americans believe racism targets White people to the same degree. This confirms that while progress exists, many communities still face daily injustices that leave deep scars.

One voice that stuck with me said: “Being Indigenous can make you feel second class. When I hear bad things about myself, it’s like I don’t believe I can do anything. But if no one said that stuff, I’d push harder because I’d know I can succeed, no matter what.”

That breaks my heart. Racism isn’t just “bad behavior” or “lack of education”—it can cause real, lasting damage—emotionally, psychologically, and socially.

So, what can we do when we see or experience racism? Standing up takes guts, but your safety comes first. You can challenge racism without being aggressive—sometimes just calmly saying, “Hey, that’s offensive” or “Please respect others” can cut through ignorance. Other times, walking away or reporting the incident (online or offline) is the smartest move.

If you witness racism against someone else? Back them up. Even showing silent support makes a difference. Encourage them to get help and know they’re not alone.

Around the world, people and organizations are doubling down on anti-racism work. For example, the Trades Union Congress in the UK released a toolkit to fight workplace racism, and millions marched in Argentina to oppose far-right hate. Meanwhile, campaigns like the International Trade Union Confederation’s push fight against racism and promote democracy and inclusion.

The big picture? Racism thrives on division and misinformation, but as society grows and learns, the hope is that these outdated, harmful ideas will fade into memory. The goal is a future where no one even notices race because it no longer divides us.

Remember: you’re extraordinary no matter what your shade. Your worth isn’t skin-deep—it’s you. And that’s what truly matters.