What is antiracism?
The history of antiracist movements and their relationship to critical pedagogy is lengthy and complex, and the definition is not uncontroversial. You can begin to explore this complexity using the resources on this page.
Remember that inclusion does not equal antiracism:
While there is certainly overlap between inclusive teaching practices and anti-racist pedagogies, they are not interchangeable. Inclusive teaching practices do not always address systemic inequality, nor do they automatically encompass the healing, decolonization, and justice-oriented work of anti-racist teaching practices. (Columbia Center for Teaching and Learning, "Anti-Racist Pedagogy in Action: First Steps")
- "Racism: The Challenge of Dismantling Lies in the Dilemma of Definition" from the Encyclopedia of Diversity and Social Justice"This entry is grounded in critical race theory with the understanding that racism is ordinary, an everyday occurrence, and should be defined, interpreted, and addressed by its individual elements, but more so, by the structural articulations of everyday racism. For scholars of critical race theory, racism is almost always articulated as an everyday occurrence, as pedestrian rather than spectacular..."
- "Talking about Race" through the National Museum of African American History & Culture"No one is born racist or antiracist; these result from the choices we make. Being antiracist results from a conscious decision to make frequent, consistent, equitable choices daily. These choices require ongoing self-awareness and self-reflection as we move through life. In the absence of making antiracist choices, we (un)consciously uphold aspects of white supremacy, white-dominant culture, and unequal institutions and society. Being racist or antiracist is not about who you are; it is about what you do."
