A brief introduction

What is antiracism?

An antiracist person is someone who actively opposes racially oppressive beliefs, attitudes, and practices; antiracism refers to acts that directly oppose systems of racial oppression.

All forms of racialized or race-based oppression — anti-Black sentiment, anti-Indigenous sentiment, anti-Asian sentiment, misogynoir, xenophobia, colorism, etc.— are rooted in the same racially oppressive ideologies, norms, behaviors, beliefs, etc.

An antiracist person actively opposes all forms and manifestations of racially oppressive ideologies, attitudes, practices, etc.

Intersectionality is also an important component of our antiracism practice. Intersectionality identifies interconnected social categories like race, gender, and class. Some social categories or social identities are privileged in our society, while others are subjected to discrimination.

Incorporating intersectionality into our antiracist practice allows us to better understand how individuals, groups, and/or communities are differentially affected by racially oppressive ideologies, attitudes, practices, etc.

But, I'm not racist!

Great! Neither am I! 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 racially oppressive ideologies, norms, beliefs, actions, attitudes, laws, policies, etc.

It requires individuals to reflect on how they may be unintentionally contributing to or perpetuating racially oppressive 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 racially oppressive beliefs, actions, and attitudes.

Practicing antiracism and being an antiracist means that, within their capability, an individual is dedicated to dismantling systems that oppress BILPOC (Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Persons of Color) individuals and communities within our society.

How can I get started?

You are not alone! Antiracism isn't something you can do once. Antiracism is a practice that requires our constant commitment. Keiana is dedicated to providing interested individuals, families, communities, and businesses with resources to support their antiracist practices. Getting started is as easy as reading books about BILPOC lived experiences by BILPOC authors. You can also read books exploring social systems or issues relevant to these populations. There is no wrong way to start.

To get you started, Keiana put together a list of some of her favorite nonfiction books exploring issues related to racial oppression, intersectionality, and antiracism. The titles explore systems of oppression from a variety of important perspectives.*

*Disclosure: The links below will open a new page. If you choose to make a purchase through these links, Keiana may earn a small commission.