Social Justice 9: Understanding Identity: Overt vs. Covert Racism
Understanding Identity
OVERT vs COVERT racism
When we think about racism, we need to remember that some forms of racism are OVERT (e.g., racial slurs, open expression of racist beliefs), while other forms of racism are COVERT (e.g., microaggressions, cultural appropriation). Overt forms of racism are generally intentional and socially unacceptable (though still practiced by some). However, covert forms of racism are generally accepted and practiced, and they are often the result of implicit bias.
Consider the following image. How do these overt and covert forms of racism show up in sport and in schools? How about other forms of discrimination?
What are considered socially acceptable forms of racism and other forms of discrimination? What can overt and covert forms of racism look like in sport and in school? How about other forms of discrimination?
As athletes and students we must TAKE ACTION to know HOW racism operates and be willing to step up and speak up about it.
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PERSONAL REFLECTION
As a class, what are some things you can do to create an environment in which people feel safe to discuss difficult subjects like racism?
What can you do to ensure that your classmates feel heard, valued, supported and included?
What does it look like/sound like/feel like to truly treat others the way they want to be treated?
Discussion on the diagram – why do we need to be careful and mindful about the ideas mentioned in covert racism?
