The Fight Against Racism: A Global Imperative

As a tech industry professional who has experienced sexism firsthand, the initial impetus may have been to address the issue of sexism. But, as I reflect on the collective impact of racism, sexism, and homophobia on the world, I realize that eliminating racism is a task of paramount importance. In 2021, the United States of America is still grappling with the aftermath of the civil rights movement of the 1960s, and the long shadow it casts continues to affect our current society.

The Realization: Racism Takes Priority

Initially, my answer would be sexism because roughly half the world would be affected by ending it. However, upon reflection, I realize that racism impacts a majority of the global population. Racism affects all those who are of a different race from any given person, which, broadly speaking, represents more than half the planet. Therefore, I choose to address racism as it has been weighing heavily on my mind and is a critical issue that needs immediate attention.

The Legacy of the Civil Rights Movement

The civil rights movement of the 1960s marked a significant turning point in American history. Landmark legislation and court cases were pivotal in emphasizing the equality of Black Americans in American society. These legal victories signaled that Black Americans deserved equal rights in public accommodations, education, and homeownership.

However, these advancements were met with resistance from white Americans. This resistance eventually led to the demise of the Republican party's traditional stance, which once focused on public goods and progress, and instead embraced a narrative that portrayed government as the problem. This shift in ideology is directly linked to the reluctance of white America to share opportunities and benefits with Black Americans.

Consequences of the Backlash

The backlash against the civil rights movement has had a profound impact on numerous aspects of American life. The lack of universal healthcare, affordable child care, family leave, and a decent minimum wage can all be attributed to the urgency with which white Americans sought to avoid sharing these benefits with Black Americans.

White Americans preferred to keep Black Americans at a distance rather than embrace integration. Donald Trump's presidency and subsequent actions serve as a prime example of this backlash. Trump's insurrection and efforts to subvert democracy were rooted in the desire to maintain white male dominance in politics, society, and the economy. This insurrection was a direct response to the presence of a Black man leading the country for eight years.

The Importance of Racial Equality

Ending racism is crucial because, unlike sexism, the reasons for inequality based on race are deeply rooted and pervasive. There is no single reason why people of different races shouldn't be treated equally. The continued abuse of Black people by white people, even those in positions of authority like police officers, is a profound shame for American society.

Addressing the Root Causes

To combat racism effectively, it is essential to address systemic biases, educate society about the experiences of marginalized communities, and promote policies that ensure equal rights and opportunities for all. This includes implementing robust anti-discrimination laws, promoting diversity and inclusion in institutions and communities, and fostering a culture of empathy and mutual respect.

Conclusion

The fight against racism is not just a moral imperative but also a critical step towards creating a more just and equitable world. While the personal impact of ending sexism cannot be overstated, the broader impact of racial equality is far-reaching and transformative.

Ultimately, we must choose to end racism because it affects a majority of the world's population and represents a deep-seated societal issue that demands urgent addressing.