Systemic Racism | FAQ Directory

Systemic racism, also known as institutional racism, refers to the ingrained patterns within societal structures, policies, and practices that create and maintain racial inequality. Unlike overt individual prejudice, systemic racism operates through established institutions such as the criminal justice system, housing markets, educational institutions, and employment sectors, often yielding unfair advantages for dominant racial groups while disadvantaging others. This form of racism is deeply rooted in historical legacies of discrimination, manifesting in disparities in wealth, health outcomes, educational attainment, and political representation, making it a critical area of study for understanding persistent social inequalities.