What is "antiracism"?
An antiracist person is someone who actively opposes white supremacist beliefs, attitudes, and practices; antiracism refers to acts that oppose white supremacy.
All forms of racialized or race-based oppression — anti-Black sentiment, anti-Indigenous sentiment, anti-Asian sentiment, misogynoir, xenophobia, colorism, etc.— are rooted in white supremacist ideologies, norms, behaviors, beliefs, etc.
An antiracist person actively opposes all forms and manifestations of white supremacist ideologies, attitudes, practices.
But, I'm not a racist!
Great! Neither are we! But, it takes more than just "not being racist" to practice antiracism or be antiracist.
How can I practice antiracism?
Practicing antiracism or being an antiracist requires a commitment to actively opposing white supremacist ideologies, norms, beliefs, actions, attitudes, laws, policies, etc. It requires individuals to reflect on how they may be unintentionally contributing to or perpetuating white supremacist ideologies, norms, beliefs, actions, and attitudes, etc. It requires individuals to understand that no one — regardless of race, religion, or socioeconomic status — is immune to possessing and perpetuating white supremacist beliefs, actions, and attitudes. Practicing antiracism and being an antiracist means that, within their capability, an individual is dedicated to dismantling systems that oppress BIPOC individuals and communities within our racialized society.
How can I get started?
You are not alone! East City Bookshop is dedicated to the practice of antiracism and providing our community with resources to be antiracist. Getting started is as easy as reading books about BIPOC lived experiences by BIPOC authors.
To get you started, we put together a list of some great books exploring antiracism for all ages. See below!
*The page was created and provided by Keiana Mayfield, MSW.
